DelGrosso Family of Companies Sponsors Blair County’s "Bells Across America" Commemorative Bell

Local Artist Selected to Paint Blair County Bell for “Bells Across PA” Art Series.

Blair County, PA — In celebration of America’s upcoming Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) in 2026, the America250PA Commission launched Bells Across PA, a statewide art series honoring this historic milestone. The initiative aimed to create 67 uniquely designed fiberglass bell sculptures — one for each Pennsylvania county — crafted by local artists and displayed in public spaces across the Commonwealth. To date, 108 bells have been commissioned throughout Pennsylvania.

The Blair County 250 Committee, in partnership with America250PA, issued a call for artists and sponsors to participate in this meaningful project. The DelGrosso Family of Companies proudly stepped forward as the official sponsor of Blair County’s commemorative bell — the only one representing the county.

Following a competitive selection process, local artist Leah McNaul, of Altoona, was chosen to bring the Blair County bell to life. Leah is an art educator at Bellwood-Antis School District, where she teaches both middle and high school students. She will receive a $1,250 honorarium for her commissioned work.

Leah’s bell design, titled “Blair County – A Part of America’s Story,” will feature iconic imagery celebrating the county’s rich history and cultural landmarks — including Fort Roberdeau, Chimney Rocks, Baker Mansion, the historic DelGrosso’s Park carousel, and Peoples Natural Gas Field, home of the Altoona Curve. The design will also incorporate elements of the Blair County flag. Overall, the theme will highlight Blair County’s past, present, and future.

“Creating a bell for America’s 250th is an incredible opportunity to celebrate our nation and our local heritage,” said McNaul. “I’m especially excited to share this project with my students — to show them the real-world impact of public art and how art can tell our shared stories.”

Leah will be documenting her creative process and sharing updates via her artist Facebook page: Leah McNaul Art.

The Blair County Liberty Bell will be unveiled on Friday, June 13th, at DelGrosso’s Park during the Blair County 250 Committee’s Kickoff Celebration Weekend.

To learn more about the bell, upcoming events, and Blair County’s America250PA celebrations throughout the year, visit: www.America250PABlair.org