The Clearfield County Historical Society officially opened its 2026 season on Sunday, May 3, with a special ceremony celebrating the approaching 250th anniversary of American independence.

As communities across the country begin preparing for the nation’s semiquincentennial in 2026, the Historical Society marked the occasion with the dedication of a ceremonial America 250 bell, now permanently placed beside the Kerr House Museum in Clearfield.

The dedication serves as both a tribute to the nation’s history and a reminder of the important role local communities like Clearfield County have played in shaping the American story through generations of perseverance, industry, service, and community spirit.

Surrounded by the grounds of the Kerr House Museum, the bell now stands as a lasting symbol of remembrance, patriotism, and connection to the past. Visitors are encouraged to stop and see the new installation as part of their museum experience throughout the season.

The Kerr House Museum, home to the Clearfield County Historical Society, preserves and shares the stories of the people, places, and events that helped shape Clearfield County. Inside the museum, visitors can explore exhibits featuring local industry, military history, everyday life, genealogy resources, artifacts, photographs, and more spanning generations of county history.

The museum is now open for the season, and admission is free to visitors.

As America prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence, the Clearfield County Historical Society invites the community to reflect on the stories that connect local history to the larger American journey and to experience those stories firsthand at the museum this year.