To commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence, the British people presented the people of the United States with the Bicentennial Bell. Cast at the Whitechapel Foundry in London, this gift celebrates the common cause of freedom uniting the two nations.
Queen Elizabeth II spoke at the dedication ceremony in Independence National Historical Park's Visitor Center on July 6, 1976. She expressed gratitude to America's Founding Fathers for teaching the British "to respect the right of others to govern themselves in their own way." Acknowledging a valuable lesson, she emphasized the shared heritage of the principles of the Magna Carta guiding our nations.
The Bicentennial Bell rang out at 11am and 3pm for many years from its tower on 3rd Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets.