Delaware County recently commemorated the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States by unveiling a custom-designed bell sculpture. On March 12, 2024, as part of the America250PA initiative, the bell was revealed at the ShopRite of Drexeline. This project is part of the broader Bells Across PA public arts initiative, which aims to install 108 commemorative bells throughout the state by 2026.
The bell, crafted from fiberglass and painted by local artist Joshua Ruggeri, embodies the spirit of Delaware County. It received sponsorship from Wakefern Food Corp. and Burns Family Neighborhood Markets. Ruggeri described the bell as “the ultimate canvas of freedom,” featuring iconic symbols such as the Eagle, the Stars and Stripes, Independence Hall, and the Statue of Liberty. He humorously noted that only a true local would insist on having “Delco” prominently displayed on the piece.
During the unveiling, Pat Burns, chair of America250PA and CEO of ShopRite, emphasized that the initiative tells the story of both Pennsylvania and the nation. “To me, America250 celebrates legacy,” Burns stated. “The future is what it’s all about in our great country and great state.”
Commemorating History and Future
The initiative, which aims to place at least one bell in each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties, serves to highlight the contributions of the state’s residents to the American narrative. The event attracted various elected officials, including Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton, state Senator Tim Kearney, and others.
Womack, Vice Chair of Delaware County, pointed out the significance of the bell’s location. A historic bell in Chester’s 1724 courthouse was rung on July 8, 1776, to announce the reading of the Declaration of Independence. This same bell will ring again on July 8, 2026, to honor the nation’s independence.
Scanlon remarked on the importance of remembering the nation’s heritage during challenging times. She stated, “Our commitment to democracy and self-government and the beautiful diversity of this country” must be celebrated. Kearney highlighted the connection the bells create among residents, noting that they reflect both the past and future as the nation approaches its milestone anniversary.
Boyd expressed that initiatives like Bells Across PA provide an opportunity for public engagement with art. “Every person in our community has the opportunity to see this,” she noted, emphasizing the accessibility of the project.
Political Context and Challenges
While the celebration marked a significant moment, it also occurred against a backdrop of pressing political issues, including a potential federal government shutdown and an overdue state budget. Kearney pointed out that the Commonwealth is experiencing a historic surplus of $3 billion in the general fund while facing a budget impasse.
Scanlon criticized the current political climate, particularly the inaction from U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, calling for negotiations to resolve the budget issues. She expressed her frustrations about the congressional dynamics, stating that only the Democrats have been present in Washington, D.C., to address these concerns.
The Congresswoman also highlighted the implications of budget cuts on local programs, emphasizing the importance of federal funding for local law enforcement and fire services. “We have seen people waking to why what is happening in D.C. is having an impact locally,” she stated.
As Delaware County prepares to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, the newly unveiled bell stands not only as a work of art but also as a reminder of the shared history and future aspirations of the community and the nation.
