Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial: A Symbol of Western Liberty
Discover the Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial, the 'Liberty Bell of the West,' and immerse yourself in Illinois' rich history and heritage.
The Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial houses the 'Liberty Bell of the West,' a gift from King Louis XV of France, commemorating the liberation of Kaskaskia in 1778. Visitors can explore the bell's history and view murals depicting the area's rich past.
A brief summary to Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial
- 302 1st St, Chester, Illinois, 62233, US
- +1618-859-3031
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the week for a quieter, more personal experience.
- Check local resources for current operating times before planning your visit.
- Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds surrounding the memorial.
Getting There
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Driving
The Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial is located in the village of Kaskaskia, south of Chester, Illinois. Note that the village is only accessible from the Missouri side of the Mississippi River. From Chester, follow IL-144 W/State Rte 144 across the Chester Bridge into Missouri. Turn left onto MO-93 S, then left again to cross back into Illinois on County Road Kaskaskia. Follow the road into the village. There is no designated parking lot, but you can park along First Street near the church for easier access.
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Taxi/Ride Share
If arriving from a nearby town such as Chester, a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft can provide a direct route to the Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial. The destination address is 302 1st St, Chester, IL 62233. The typical cost for a short trip within Southern Illinois ranges from $10 to $30.
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Public Transport
Limited public transportation options are available. South Central Transit (SCT) offers intra-city shuttle services in some nearby cities. However, reaching Kaskaskia from a hub like Centralia would require a combination of inter-city and intra-city shuttles, with potential route deviations. A basic intra-city shuttle fare is around $0.50, while a county shuttle fare is $2.00. Given the complexity and limited service, this option may not be practical for most visitors.
Discover more about Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial
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Home to the 'Liberty Bell of the West,' gifted by King Louis XV, celebrating Kaskaskia's revolutionary history since 1778.
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