Liberty Bell visits CIRCA in Roswell

One of the enduring symbols of American liberty is the famous Liberty Bell. But why is it called that, and why that bell?

The answer to these questions and a chance to hear its clear, E-flat tone ring out in all its glory can be found at the Circa History Guild on Holcomb Bridge Road at the entrance to The Ellard residential community.

A 3,200-pound, full-sized bronze replica is on view at Circa through the month of February. It is one of the many features of Circa, an organization dedicated to fostering the love of history in the community.

The Liberty Bell was cast in 1751 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of William Penn's Charter of Priveleges of 1701, which, among other rights, guaranteed the right of religious freedom. Twenty-five years later it was adopted as a symbol for political freedom as well during the Revolutionary War.

Bill Potter, curator and historian at Circa History Guild said Circa has free admission and is open six days a week (closed Sundays).

It is the idea of commercial developer J.T. Adams, who has a passion for history and is determined to see that its lessons are passed down to future generations.

"It actually started when I noticed my wife reading a magazine, and every other page seemed to be about Paris Hilton. I told her I thought it rather obnoxious to have so much written about someone who has done so little," said Adams. "She told me I should quit complaining and do something about it. So this is what I have done."

What that turned into has been for Adams to dedicate one of his stores in the Ellard Mercantile Exchange shopping center to be the Circa History Guild.

"First, it is a place to display my historical collection of manuscripts and artifacts. We have speakers who come are either firsthand witnesses to history or are experts in their field," said Adams. "Later, we hope to add a theater and a genealogy library."

The ultimate goal of Circa, he said, is to inspire, enlighten and educate the next generation.

Some of the older generation can pick up a thing or two just walking around the hardwood floors (salvaged from a 19th century factory) looking at books, art and historical artifacts that fill the building.

There's one thing about having a board with only one director. Decisions are made quickly. When Adams heard the HBO miniseries on his forebear John Adams was auctioning off its inventory, Adams quickly made arrangements to buy it all. Like just about everything in Circa, the props do have a price. But making a profit is not what moved Adams to start Circa.

"I want young people to discover America through their own eyes. I want them to realize that America's history is their history. It was their ancestors who lived it and made it. It is their legacy," Adams said.

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