Franklin County Bell Embarks on an Inspiring Journey Across Pennsylvania
On September 20, 2025, a momentous celebration took place in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, as over 150 locals and tourists gathered to witness a unique event: the unveiling of the Franklin County Bell Across PA. The event was graced by 103-year-old WWII veteran and former commissioner Sam Worley, who joined young Laine Hess, the 2025 Franklin County Fair Queen, in highlighting the bell's significance in their community.
After being showcased at the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center, the bell set off on an exciting journey, first making a stop at the Mercersburg Townfest, a festival celebrating 275 years of the town's history. This festival not only highlights local traditions but also underscores the rich tapestry of stories that make up Franklin County. Following the festivities, the bell was next transported to Fendrick Library, a historic building located at 20 North Main Street in Mercersburg, which was originally constructed in 1788. This library, known as the Parker House, serves as a reminder of the town's heritage and its connection to Revolutionary War hero Captain Robert Parker, a friend of Marquis de Lafayette.
The Franklin County Bell is part of the America250PA initiative, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of America's independence and its historical landmarks. The bell, beautifully painted by local artist Andrea Finch, captures the essence of Franklin County's agriculture, history, and beautiful landscapes. The design showcases a unique repeating circular crosshair, inspired by the stonework remnants of the 1864 Franklin County Courthouse, which was burned by Confederate forces during the Civil War. This artistic representation tells a story of resilience and spirit, inviting everyone to reflect on the county's profound history.
Currently, the bell is on display at Fendrick Library until October 17 before it returns to the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center to participate in AppleFest on October 18. Following that, it will be present at the Tavern Night at Fort Loudoun, which will be held on October 25, and then returns to Fort Loudoun for the Allegheny Uprising event on November 15. Each stop reinforces the bell's purpose of bringing communities together and fostering a sense of pride in shared heritage.
As part of the Bells Across PA initiative, the Franklin County Bell is a tribute to the Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom that resonates deeply with both Pennsylvanians and Americans. The Franklin County Visitors Bureau, which sponsors the bell, aims to spread its message of unity and community spirit as it travels through the region. The journey of the bell encourages local residents and visitors alike to engage with one another and appreciate the rich history that Franklin County embodies.
This endeavor not only promotes local tourism but also shares the spirit of hospitality found in communities like Chambersburg, Greencastle, Mercersburg, Shippensburg, and Waynesboro. For many, Franklin County is easily accessible, being a short drive from major cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh.
To discover more about the monuments and events surrounding Franklin County and participate in the celebrations, residents and visitors can visit ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com. The Franklin County Visitors Bureau can also be reached for more information at 866.646.8060. This vibrant celebration of history, culture, and community bonds is an essential part of what makes Pennsylvania's heartland so special.
After being showcased at the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center, the bell set off on an exciting journey, first making a stop at the Mercersburg Townfest, a festival celebrating 275 years of the town's history. This festival not only highlights local traditions but also underscores the rich tapestry of stories that make up Franklin County. Following the festivities, the bell was next transported to Fendrick Library, a historic building located at 20 North Main Street in Mercersburg, which was originally constructed in 1788. This library, known as the Parker House, serves as a reminder of the town's heritage and its connection to Revolutionary War hero Captain Robert Parker, a friend of Marquis de Lafayette.
The Franklin County Bell is part of the America250PA initiative, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of America's independence and its historical landmarks. The bell, beautifully painted by local artist Andrea Finch, captures the essence of Franklin County's agriculture, history, and beautiful landscapes. The design showcases a unique repeating circular crosshair, inspired by the stonework remnants of the 1864 Franklin County Courthouse, which was burned by Confederate forces during the Civil War. This artistic representation tells a story of resilience and spirit, inviting everyone to reflect on the county's profound history.
Currently, the bell is on display at Fendrick Library until October 17 before it returns to the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center to participate in AppleFest on October 18. Following that, it will be present at the Tavern Night at Fort Loudoun, which will be held on October 25, and then returns to Fort Loudoun for the Allegheny Uprising event on November 15. Each stop reinforces the bell's purpose of bringing communities together and fostering a sense of pride in shared heritage.
As part of the Bells Across PA initiative, the Franklin County Bell is a tribute to the Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom that resonates deeply with both Pennsylvanians and Americans. The Franklin County Visitors Bureau, which sponsors the bell, aims to spread its message of unity and community spirit as it travels through the region. The journey of the bell encourages local residents and visitors alike to engage with one another and appreciate the rich history that Franklin County embodies.
This endeavor not only promotes local tourism but also shares the spirit of hospitality found in communities like Chambersburg, Greencastle, Mercersburg, Shippensburg, and Waynesboro. For many, Franklin County is easily accessible, being a short drive from major cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh.
To discover more about the monuments and events surrounding Franklin County and participate in the celebrations, residents and visitors can visit ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com. The Franklin County Visitors Bureau can also be reached for more information at 866.646.8060. This vibrant celebration of history, culture, and community bonds is an essential part of what makes Pennsylvania's heartland so special.
Topics People & Culture）
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