Freeport Sponsors Restoration of Arizona’s Liberty Bell Replica

October 13, 2026 - A piece of Arizona history has new life following a restoration sponsored in part by Freeport in recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Freeport recently was recognized as being a sponsor of the restoration of a Liberty Bell replica that has stood outside the historic state Capitol for more than 75 years. The restored bell was rededicated during a recent ceremony in Phoenix.

Originally dedicated in 1950, the bell became a centerpiece of Arizona’s statewide efforts commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Freeport was among the sponsors that partnered with the Arizona America 250 Commission on the restoration. As part of the commemoration, the Liberty Bell replica traveled to all 15 Arizona counties as the centerpiece of a mobile museum featuring historic exhibits on Arizona and U.S. history. It then returned to the state Capitol for the dedication ceremony.

Freeport’s connection to the bell, however, goes back much further.

Phelps Dodge Corp. and Miami Copper Co., both later acquired by Freeport, were among the original sponsors that funded the bell in 1950.

Arizona’s bell was one of 53 replicas delivered to states and territories as part of a U.S. Savings Bond drive. The bells were modeled after the original Liberty Bell at Independence Hall in Philadelphia.