By Julia Kramer · Staff Writer
Carnegie Alumni Center will soon celebrate Pennsylvania’s semiquincentennial by displaying Mercer County’s first liberty bell titled “Partners Through Time.”
A product of “Bells Across PA”, a project made by the America250PA organization, the bell’s painted sides showcase Mercer County’s landscapes and Grove City College’s Harbison Chapel.
“Bells Across PA is our way of inspiring connection through creativity,” said Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA. “As we prepare to mark 250 years of the American experiment, this initiative helps Pennsylvanians from every corner of the Commonwealth see themselves in that story. ‘Partners Through Time’ reflects the spirit of that Mercer County community and reminds us that history is something we all have a hand in creating. Each bell represents a unique collaboration between artists, communities and sponsors.”
The bell not only celebrates the nation’s founding 250 years ago, but also Grove City College’s 150th anniversary.
The artist, Glen Sanders, is an adjunct professor of art at the college. “I enjoyed the artmaking, and I hope those who view it appreciate the work and that it represents the county as a family-friendly, nature-loving piece of Americana,” Sanders said.
Although America250PA provided the bell’s fiberglass mold, much of the funding for the project came directly from the college. “Grove City College is honored to support this important project as Mercer County marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence,” President Bradley Lingo said. “It is especially fitting for the college to play a leading role, since the ideals that have shaped our country for 250 years have also guided Grove City College for the past 150.”
Recently installed in the rotunda of the Mercer County Courthouse, the bell’s delivery to campus will occur later in the spring, where it will reside permanently.
“We are grateful that Grove City College stepped up as the corporate sponsor for the bell – and that America’s 250th birthday coincides with GCC’s 150th birthday,” Mercer County Commissioner Ann Coleman said.
