
Did you know that Maine has its very own version of the famed Liberty Bell? The city of Augusta is filled with history, and of course, serves as Maine's capital city. The Liberty Bell replica is located on the lawn of Maine's capitol building, which has a long, interesting history of its own.
When Maine became a state, the original Maine State House was located in Portland but was destroyed in a fire. The present State House, located in Augusta, was built in 1832, and after several renovations continues to serve as the State Capitol Building today. The Liberty Bell replica arrived two decades after the building was complete, and our real estate agents have all of the details on the history of this unique Augusta attraction.
The Attraction: Augusta's Liberty Bell Replica
Location: North Lawn of Maine Capitol Building – 230 State St., Augusta
The original Liberty Bell, located in Philadelphia, was cast in 1752, and recast shortly thereafter when it received its famous crack, which is still visible today. Maine received its own replica of the Liberty Bell in 1950, courtesy of the Paccard Bell Foundry, which created replica Liberty Bells for every state. Maine's replica Liberty Bell has been a fixture on the Capitol grounds since it was received in 1950 and remains a popular attraction for anyone visiting Augusta to this day.
The Liberty Bell replica is a popular attraction in part because of what it symbolizes, ringing loud in the Pennsylvania Capitol Building during countless historical moments, while serving as a symbol of liberty and freedom throughout the world. The original Liberty Bell has even toured the country during times of distress, as a way to bring people together. Visiting the Liberty Bell replica in Augusta is a great way to get in touch with that history, and see what the Liberty Bell looks like in person.
Historic properties are one option when shopping for Augusta homes for sale, and the Maine State House is a great example of area history. While you're visiting the Liberty Bell replica in Augusta, be sure to make time to explore the Capitol Building and the rest of the grounds. The building was completed in 1832 at a cost of $145,000, and the same building still stands today. One fun fact: A time capsule, believed to be placed when the original building was constructed, may still be located in one of the cornerstones today.
If you're interested in visiting, the Maine State House is open to the public throughout the year, from Monday through Friday. You can tour the grounds and building on your own, or enjoy a guided tour, available from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on weekdays. As you tour the grounds, you'll learn about local history, explore the halls where laws are made, and of course see Augusta's Liberty Bell replica in person.
Are you shopping for a home close to all of the history and attractions in Augusta? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Augusta, ME area.