Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Kaskaskia Bell Shrine and the Liberty Bell of the West

1st Street, Kaskaskia Island, Ellis Grove, IL 62241

Historic Sites

Known as the Liberty Bell of the West, the Kaskaskia Bell was rung as the island was captured from the British during the Revolutionary War

The Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial is a brick building that houses a bell cast in 1741 by King Louis XV (1710-1774) of France as a gift to the Catholic Church of the Illinois Country. Originally located at the Immaculate Conception Parish at Kaskaskia, the bell was rung by villagers to celebrate their July 4, 1778 liberation from the British by American Colonel George Rogers Clark (1752-1818). In later years, it became known as the “Liberty Bell of the West.” The Memorial also contains murals depicting scenes from Kaskaskia history. Illinois 250

How to find us?

Back to Listings

You might also be interested...

Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Ellis Grove

Discover the historic overlook, the Fort mounds and cemetery, and tour the nearby Menard House. Together, these sites provide a glimpse into early European colonization and…

Read more about Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Pierre Menard Home

Ellis Grove

Built in 1815, the Pierre Menard Home showcases French Creole architecture and early Illinois history. This National Historic Landmark honors Illinois’ first lieutenant governor and features…

Read more about Pierre Menard Home

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.