SELINSGROVE — One by one each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties have unveiled their fiberglass replica of the iconic Liberty Bell to mark next year’s 250th celebration of America’s anniversary.

Pennsylvania Commission for the U.S. Semiquincentennial — America250PA — commissioned an artist to paint the fiberglass bell with a design to showcase its heritage. On Dec. 9, Snyder County took the spotlight as the Susquehanna River Valley officially unveiled its America 250 PA bell in Selinsgrove.

This stunning piece of public art adds a vibrant new voice to the statewide Bells Across PA initiative. Laura Knorr, a local artist and executive director of the Campus Theatre in Lewisburg, was selected to create artwork highlighting Snyder County. The bell showcases her signature storytelling style, weaving together Snyder County’s heritage, natural beauty and community spirit.

Every detail invites visitors to pause, explore and connect with the stories that shape the Susquehanna Valley region. This bell joins others across Pennsylvania as part of the America 250 PA commemorations, bringing communities together to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, organizers said.

When the unadorned fiberglass bell was delivered to her Berwick home in October, Knorr said it was too large to fit through her front door. So, it was left on her porch, where she ended up painting it.

“As an artist, it’s a very meaningful experience. I hope it represents the county and resonates with people,” she said of the design that features a portrait of Simon Snyder, Pennsylvania’s third governor and county namesake; the courthouse in Middleburg and an eagle soaring over the Susquehanna River.

The bell’s unveiling attracted a crowd of about 50 outside the Selinsgrove Borough Building as the sun set and the temperature stayed below freezing.

In attendance were state Rep. David Rowe, Susquehanna University President Jonathan Green, Snyder County Commissioners Chuck Steininger and Adam Ewig, Selinsgrove Mayor Jeff Reed and other municipal leaders.

“It captures the natural beauty and rich heritage of Snyder County,” said Judy Machesic, interim director of the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau as the bell was moved temporarily into the lobby of the borough building before it will be installed for the next year outside the building’s main entrance.

The $10,000 bell was funded by the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau and Rudy Gelnett Trust.

The Liberty Bells for Mifflin and Juniata counties have already been unveiled.

To view the new bell, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9F4CD1:Q7s.