Stereoscopic photographs, or stereoview cards, became popular in the 1850s as a form of entertainment for the masses. Stereoview cards are composed of two nearly identical images mounted side-by-side on a cardboard backing providing a viewing experience of the scene in 3-D. The card is viewed using a "stereoviewer" to bring out the 3-D effects of the photographic composition.

As stereoviews became commonplace and relatively inexpensive to produce, the cards emerged as souvenir items quite naturally. Images ranged from world views of cities, towns, monuments, parks, and other natural history attractions. The Liberty Bell was used extensively as a subject.

The earliest views of the Liberty Bell on display at Independence Hall. The Liberty Bell has been exhibited in six different display presentations since its first appearance as a historic relic in 1852. These views show the first and second displays.

The Liberty Bell was displayed inside Independence Hall in four different presentations in its first 50 years of retirement from its role as a working bell.  These two views show the third and fourth displays.

The Liberty Bell on its most notable stand and its place of rest inside Independence Hall for the majority of the 20th century.  In this position, the Liberty Bell was free to be touched by all visitors.

Four views of the Liberty Bell while visiting other cities during a world's fair or exposition.

"Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery."  Two interesting views of imitation Liberty Bells on public display.

View and history of the bell that hung in the tower of Independence Hall in 1876 and still serves the City of Philadelphia to this day.