The following is Scott Fais' weekly blog detailing discoveries made while traveling through Florida and along the road of life.
Growing up, Independence Day meant an early parade in the summer heat or a day on the water, followed by evening fireworks, if the weather cooperated.
If you’re looking for something different than the standard red, white and blue fare of the day and experience something rooted in American Pride, head to Melbourne.
Tucked away under the Melbourne Water Tower, you’ll discover the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum. This domed shaped building has stood on this site for almost seven decades. It began life as a water tower in the 1930s, until its big brother took over the job next door in the 1980s. With reinforced cement walls one foot thick, this water tank is a fortress when it comes to preserving American Pride.
Operated by the nonprofit “Honor America,” the group’s sole purpose is to inform future generations about the sacrifice past generations made to protecting what many of us take for granted: Getting up in the morning in a safe neighborhood, going to school or work, watching a newscast that is not a government propaganda vehicle, having groceries on the store shelf, etc.
The main attraction is an exact replica of the real Liberty Bell (hence the name Liberty Bell Memorial Museum). Visitors are encouraged to strike the bell. The namesake was cast by the Whitechapel Foundry in London, the same makers of the original bell. Museum director Peter Diaz told me this reproduction is believed to be one of only 25 in existence.
Hit the bell and listen to it toll. Remember and then reflect on the real meaning behind this holiday, our history.
Until next week, drive safe this holiday!
-SCOTT
Keep those e-mails coming! Scott Fais enjoys hearing about your adventures around the Sunshine State. And send pictures! E-mail Scott at sfais@cfnews13.com.