‘Revolution to Resilience’ bell unveiled in Fayette County
Fayette County’s bell commemorating the 250th anniversary of America was unveiled Saturday morning at the courthouse in Uniontown.
It is part of the “Bells Across PA” initiative celebrating next year’s semiquincentennial with a bell for each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties.
“These fiberglass bells may not ring, however, they are far from silent,” said Cassandra Coleman at Saturday’s event. Coleman is the executive director of America250PA, which organized Bells Across PA. “Each one tells a story about a community, each one tells a story about creativity, and, most importantly, each one tells a story about local pride.”
The lead artist for Fayette County’s Bell was James Mochnsky, who sits on the board of Touchstone Center for Crafts, based in Wharton Township.
The theme for Mochnsky’s design is “Revolution to Resilience,” and a ribbon wrapped around the bell represents the Historic National Road. It features several images to represent the story of Fayette County, including George Washington and a coal miner.
Speaking prior to the unveiling Saturday, Mochnsky noted that if you’re standing far enough away it may appear that the bell has been painted. But it is actually covered in fabric that was donated by Pittsburgh-based Brenda Friday Design
Mochnsky said that it was “an honor” to create the bell.
“To have this opportunity to actually celebrate that, and celebrate our contribution in Fayette County to our country’s history has meant so much to me,” Mochnsky said.
The creation of Fayette County’s bell was made possible by sponsors Blake and Vanessa Getz, who were born and raised in the county.
“For our family, Fayette County is not only historically significant, it is deeply personal,” Vanessa Getz said. “This is a palace that shaped our lives, our values, our sense of community, and our appreciation for the people who build, create and lead with purpose.”
Elected officials also spoke at Saturday’s unveiling, including Fayette County’s commissioners, state Sen. Pat Stefano and state Rep. Charity Krupa.
The commissioners – Scott Dunn, Vince Vicites, and Harry Dutch Kaufman – read from a proclamation commemorating the efforts of those involved in Fayette County’s bell.
The bell is available for public viewing inside the Fayette County Courthouse, and will be throughout 2026.