Foundry That Cast Liberty Bell To Close In May
by John McDevitt
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The London, England bell foundry that made bells around world, including the Liberty Bell, since the 1500s is closing its doors for good in May.
If you didn't learn about it in history class, then perhaps in the 2004 movie National Treasure which filmed in part here in Philadelphia.
The White Chapel Bell Foundry was commissioned to cast the bell in the 1750s.
The bell first cracked when rung after its arrival in Philadelphia, and was recast two times by local workmen.
"The White Chapel Bell was recast by John Pass and John Stow, and that's what you see today," explained Bob Giannini, museum curator at Independence National Historical Park.
Christ Church in old city also has White Chapel bells that still toll.
Sunday services begin and end with the sound of the bells.
