American Legion Freedom Bell

American Legion Freedom Bell

Quick Facts

Location:

Washington, DC

Amenities

1 listed

Public Transit

The American Legion Freedom Bell, located on the plaza in front of Union Station, is one of Washington, D.C.’s lesser-known Bicentennial monuments. Commissioned by the American Legion for its 60th anniversary and cast in 1975, the bell is a double-size replica of the Liberty Bell carefully reproduced by skilled bell makers in France. The Legion intended it as a traveling symbol of national unity during the country’s Bicentennial celebrations, and the bell toured the nation before coming to Washington. It was installed permanently at Union Station in 1981, placed within a steel frame reminiscent of the Liberty Bell’s historic yoke. Standing more than 19 feet tall and weighing over 8 tons, the Freedom Bell greets millions of visitors arriving in the capital each year and reflects the American Legion’s commitment to patriotism, civic service, and the defense of liberty.