Bicentennial Bell prepped for storage, awaits new home [photos]

    The Bicentennial Bell was removed from its Old City perch early Thursday as winds picked up around Philadelphia.

    The 12,446-pound bell was removed from the tower at Third at Chestnut streets, and the clapper was removed and wrapped for temporary storage.

    The National Historic Park will keep the bell in storage until the new home is ready. NewsWorks photographer Emma Lee was on hand as the bell was prepped for storage.

    The bell was cast in 1976 for the nation’s 200th birthday, and was made by the same company that produced the original Liberty Bell. Queen Elizabeth II was at the Philadelphia Independence Visitor Center July 6, 1976 for the Bicentennial Bell dedication ceremony.

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