Our Bell Tappers Let Freedom Ring

As part of the Pennsylvania Society of the Sons of the Revolution (PSSR) “Let Freedom Ring” ceremony each July 4th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Junior Members of the DSDI are invited to symbolically tap the Liberty Bell. The DSDI has had the honor of having their Junior Members serve as Bell Tappers since 1967, and we extend our gratitude to the National Park Service and the PSSR for the invitation to take part in this wonderful and symbolic event. 

How to Become a Bell Tapper

A number of requirements must be met in order to become a bell tapper for the Descendants of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence.

  • Be a Junior Member of the DSDI whose membership has been accepted by the Board, prior to being placed on the Tappers list.
  • Be between 7 and 17 years of age on the 4th of July of the year in which they are to tap the Bell. We are currently filling the year 2029.
  • Understand the significance of what they are doing, including the history of the Liberty Bell, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and the Signer from whom they are descended.
  • Be the guest of the DSDI at our brunch on the 4th of July, just before the ceremony at Independence National Historical Park, which is part of the National Park Service; and attend the General Meeting in the Long Gallery of Independence Hall, where the tappers are introduced.
  • Follow all of the schedules on the 4th that are provided by the DSDI.
  • Write a thank-you note to the PSSR & the DSDI for being invited to participate in the ceremonies.

Ready to Submit a Request?

The DSDI has availability for up to 10 Junior Members to serve as Bell Tappers per year. Based on high demand, Members are encouraged to complete the request form as early as possible, once membership criteria has been met.