History of the Liberty Bell Museum
In 1962, the members of Zion’s church and the wider community came together to build a shrine testifying to our unique role, safeguarding America’s most sacred symbol of freedom. The area underneath the church was excavated, exposing the original foundation (which is pictured above in the header of this web site.) The State of Pennsylvania entrusted us with its replica Liberty Bell.
Through the years, elementary school teachers enhanced their local history curriculum with visits to the Liberty Bell Shrine. Scout troops visit to fulfill history badge requirements. Indeed, hundreds of thousands from the Lehigh Valley and around the world have visited and learned the story of the journey of the bells from Philadelphia to Allentown.
In recent years, our educational purpose and mission have expanded, and the State Department of Education has designated us an Education Improvement Organization. Now known as the Liberty Bell Museum, this hidden gem in center city Allentown has changing exhibits, lecture series, historical re-enactments and events in partnership with Zion’s Church, a ½ scale replica (child-sized) Conestoga wagon, as well as that holiday favorite, Pip the Mouse.
Staff
Board Members
- President: Dr. Dennis Blankowitsch
- Vice-President: Ralph Todd
- Secretary: Ann Wertman
- Chris Bauder
- William Campbell
- Shirley Christman
- Ronald Clever
- Edward Donahue
- Sandra Dorney
- Sharon Fraser
- Radell Ludwig
- Richard Ludwig
- William Remo
- Irv Soble
- Patrick Vance
- Frank Whelan