After going through a grueling selection process, Mrs. Leah McNaul, who is the middle and high school art teacher at Bellwood-Antis, was chosen to bring the Blair County Bell back to life, as part of America’s upcoming Semiquincentennial (The 250th anniversary) in upcoming 2026.
The America250PA Commission launched “Bells Across PA”, which is a state-wide art series in honor of this historic milestone. The intent was to create 67 uniquely designed fiberglass sculpted bells, one for each county in Pennsylvania, made by local artists and displayed in public spaces throughout the Commonwealth. So far, exactly 108 bells have been commissioned throughout Pennsylvania.
The Blair County 250 Committee, in a partnership with America250PA , made a call for artists and sponsors to invite them to participate in the project. The DelGrosso Family of Companies stepped forward as the official sponsor of Blair County’s commemorative bell, the only one presenting the county.
Mrs. McNaul’s bell design, titled “Blair County-A part of America’s Story” will feature iconic imagery celebrating the county’s rich history and fascinating cultural landmarks, including Chimney Rocks, Fort Roberdeau, the historic DelGrosso’s Park carousal, Baker Mansion, and Peoples Natural Gas Field, home of the Altoona Curve.
The design will also hold elements of the Blair County flag. The theme is supposed to highlight Blair County’s past, present, and future.
“Creating a bell for America’s 250th is an incredible opportunity to celebrate our nation and our local heritage,” said McNaul. “I’m especially excited to share this project with my students, to show them the real-world impact of public art and how art can tell our shared stories.”
Documenting her progress, Leah will be sharing updates via her artist Facebook page: Leah McNaul Art. She will receive a $1,250 honorarium for her commissioned work.
This Blair County Liberty Bell will be unveiled on Friday, June 13, at DelGrosso’s Park during the Blair County 250 Committee’s Kickoff Celebration weekend.
