Bells Across PA
The Bells Across Pennsylvania initiative celebrates the United States’s 250th Anniversary. This project, led by America250PA, places unique, artist-designed replicas of the Liberty Bell in all 67 counties of Pennsylvania. Signature projects like America250PA's Bells Across PA have created lasting symbols of resolve, resilience, unity, and liberty.
Bells Across The Laurel Highlands
Fayette County: “Revolution to Resilience”
A richly textured fabric collage created by artist James Mochnsky in collaboration with the Touchstone Center for Crafts, this unique bell celebrates the artistic spirit and cultural heritage of Fayette County. Constructed from layered textiles and mixed fibers, the piece reflects the region’s deep traditions in craftsmanship, creativity, and community expression. The collaborative process brought together artistic vision and the hands-on expertise of the Touchstone Center for Crafts, one of the Laurel Highlands’ premier destinations for traditional and contemporary craft education. Installed at the Fayette County Courthouse in Uniontown, the bell stands as a symbol of Fayette County’s artistic legacy and history.
Somerset County: "Unending Spirit"
Created by artist Kathy Trexel Reed, Somerset County’s bell showcases the delicate and historic papercutting technique, an art form known for its intricate detail and storytelling. Carefully designed and cut from paper, the colorful artwork features finely layered silhouettes that reflect the history, landscapes, and cultural traditions of Somerset County. Through this meticulous craft, the piece highlights the region’s agriculture and industry while celebrating the creativity and craftsmanship that continue to thrive in the Laurel Highlands. Visitors can view this unique work of public art at the Somerset County Annex Office Building, 300 North Center Avenue, Somerset, PA 15501.
Westmoreland County: "MORE Energy in Westmoreland"
Artist Stacey Pydynkoski captures the dynamic story of energy in Westmoreland County with a continuous panoramic painting that stretches across the bell, illustrating energy sources, transmission and delivery systems, the scenic Westmoreland Heritage Trail, and the county’s rolling hills and natural beauty. The composition unfolds from dawn to night and through all four seasons, symbolizing the constant movement of life, work, and energy that powers homes, businesses, and communities throughout the region. The bell is mounted on a coal car constructed by Murrysville Public Works department to honor our coal heritage. The Bell greets visitors, walkers and bikers at the at The Roberts Trailhead of the Westmoreland Heritage Trail in Murrysville at 4301 William Penn Hwy, Murrysville, PA 15668, not far from the site of the Haymaker gas well, our nation’s first commercial natural gas well.
Westmoreland County: "There's MORE in Westmoreland"
A vibrant glass mosaic by artist Mandy Sirofchuck, celebrates the beauty, energy, and spirit of Westmoreland County through color, texture, and light. Crafted from hundreds of pieces of hand-cut glass, the mosaic design depicts the region’s iconic landmarks and waterways, diverse wildlife, and lush natural resources. The bell also references significant places in Westmoreland County and the hardworking spirit of the people who call this area home with a unique base made with coal and regional rock layers. The bell is displayed in the sculpture garden at the entrance to The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, a centerpiece of arts and culture in the Greensburg PA.
