The commemorative fiberglass bell, designed by local artist Kasey Dumm, highlights the county’s semiquincentennial theme, “250 Years and Still Growing,” featuring depictions of the region’s natural landscapes and the historically significant Tiadaghton elm. The installation is part of a larger statewide project honoring the nation’s landmark milestone in 2026.

Organized by America250PA, the state partner of the national America 250 initiative, the bell’s unveiling at the Clinton County Courthouse brought together county and state officials, the artist, project sponsor and community supporters.

Adorned with the county’s 250th anniversary logo, the bell incorporates the Susquehanna River and nearby mountains, natural features that were central to Clinton County’s founding and growth.

“Clinton County, much like America, was shaped by hardworking people and defined by its beautiful landscape. The Susquehanna River and surrounding mountains provided a vital resource, supporting thousands of workers who call Clinton County home and fueling a lumber industry that shaped our towns into what they are today,” Lock Haven Mayor Joel Long, one of several officials to speak, said. “Our beautiful mountains and river continue to bring the community together.”

HUNTER SMITH/THE EXPRESS The commemorative fiberglass bell, designed by local artist Kasey Dumm, depicts the county’s 250th anniversary logo and incorporates the Susquehanna River and nearby mountains, natural features that were central to Clinton County’s founding and growth. It also bear’s the county’s theme for the anniversary, “250 years & still growing,” which is a nod to the rural character of the county.

Building on that idea, Commissioner Angela Harding said, “Clinton County decided to pick a theme that resonates with our strengths, which are our natural resources, as Mayor Long pointed out. The river, the trees — we’re one of the largest forest-covered counties in the state of Pennsylvania.”

On its backside, the bell is painted with a depiction of the Tiadaghton Elm, the local site where colonial frontiersmen — known as the Fair Play Men — declared their independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776, before news of the Declaration of Independence reached them from Philadelphia.

State Rep. Stephanie Borowicz, who represents the 76th District, mentioned the legacy of the Fair Play Men while speaking at the ceremony.

“The Fair Play Men met there and said, ‘In the frontier, we are going to be free,'” Borowicz said. “(Here) on the frontier, we’re free. This is Clinton County — the best of America.”

Clinton County Commissioner Jeff Snyder called the bell a way to recognize the county’s contribution to the nation’s founding.

HUNTER SMITH/THE EXPRESS Kasey Dumm poses beside her artist’s statement and in front of the bell, which she designed.

“As we celebrate this, it allows the counties of Pennsylvania to acknowledge the integral role that we played in the founding of the United States,” Snyder said. “It is up to us to use our history to encourage and inspire future generations to build on the past to make a better future.”

During the ceremony, special gift presentations were made to the artist, Kasey Dumm, and project sponsor, FirstEnergy, represented by Local Engagement Specialist Thea Lind.

“This isn’t just a bell. It’s a symbol of freedom, unity and the enduring spirit of Pennsylvania,” Lind said. “We are pleased that our donation allowed Kasey Dumm to paint a beautiful bell, celebrating Clinton County’s past, present and future.”

Lind noted that FirstEnergy is proud to support the communities it serves, and that the ceremony represented more than a commemorative bell.

“We’re celebrating the role our Commonwealth played in shaping America’s story,” she said. “From the triumphs to the trials, Pennsylvania has always been at the heart of it all. It’s our way of showing we believe in this mission. We believe in honoring the past, inspiring future leaders and making sure every Pennsylvanian, across all 67 counties, feels connected to this historical milestone.”

HUNTER SMITH/THE EXPRESS The back side of the bell depicts the historic Tiadaghton Elm, where in 1776 the Fair Play men declared the frontier independent of Great Britain.

Before the bell was unveiled to the audience, Dumm shared her gratitude for the opportunity.

“It’s truly an honor to have had the opportunity to paint this bell — something that’s going to be out and displayed for hopefully a long time.” Dumm said. “I moved here in 2008, and I never left. And I’m proud to call the county home, so it’s an honor to be able to do something like this for our country and for the 250th year of America.”

The bell will remain on display at the courthouse throughout the 250th anniversary and for years to come.