Philadelphia Liberty Bell

Thursday 21st May 2009

The bus ride bypasses Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Other signs that we were near Philadelphia included the signboards which scream out loud their loyalty to the Phillies. Also passed were the Wachovia Center, home of the Flyers and 76ers.

Walked towards Liberty Bell. Despite being known as the most walkable city, our luggage in hand did not permit us to walk freely, limiting our exploration to the Old City district and the vicinity around Liberty Bell. Below is Independence Hall and on left Supreme Court Chamber. On right of Independence Hall but not pictured is Congress Hall.

Just as well because it was getting late and most places of interest had begun closing its doors. John Philip Sousa, the 'March King' composed Liberty March. One of his more famous songs and was even used for the President's inauguration. 

The Liberty Bell is extremely symbolic. I say so because it is a prime example of 'epic fail' in terms of fulfilling its functional duties. Ordered from London in 1750s, it arrived in Philadelphia but during testing atop the State house, the bell cracked. Recasting to bridge the gap and modifications to improve the sound were in vain. Originally named State House Bell and renamed Liberty Bell by abolitionists of slavery, it is a bona fide symbol of freedom.

'Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof' from Leviticus 25:10 and inscribed on the Bell