A Call for Peace: The World Peace Bell

The World Peace Bell in Newport, Kentucky

A Look to its History

On a hot sunny day in the crossroads of Newport, stood a tall monument. A monument that was glistering in the swelling sunshine of the developing land. Some look to this monument as a symbol of hope. This symbol, which has stood on 425 York Street since the spring of 1999, has been an iconic landmark for the community of Newport, Kentucky. Known as the World Peace Bell, the bell has a history that is quite unique in terms of purpose and creation.

For starters, the World Peace Bell is the largest swinging bell in the world. The bell itself weighs 66,000 pounds along with an additional 26,000 pounds the yoke provides. The height of the bell is an estimated 12 feet high and a diameter of 12 feet as well. With these weights and heights, the bell truly conveys a large bell that can create a large surround ring.

The history of the bell actually does not start in the United States; instead, its beginnings originated in France. The bell was first cast in 1998 in order to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Over the weeks of casting and preparations, the bell would be shown to the public in Nantes, France. Eventually, the bell would fine home in the United States.

The journey of the bell to Newport Kentucky involved many stops along the Mississippi Delta. Starting in New Orleans, Louisiana, the bell would make trips to 14 different cities before eventually making Newport its home for the next 20+ years.

What the bell emphasizes is peace. That was what the creators of the bell were inspired by. For the past 20+ years, the bell has stood in Newport, Kentucky, as a symbol for the city that is truly diverse and supportive of each other. Its ring can still be remembered by all who hear its song.

Source:

Southbank Partners. “History.” Southbank Partners, http://www.southbankpartners.com/world-peace-bell/history.aspx.
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