English 18th century bellmaking methods are described, along with the history of the Liberty Bell, cast in 1751. Elemental analysis of the bell was carried out in Independence Hall, Philadelphia, by energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy using a portable instrument. The average of 13 separate analyses at different locations showed the main constituents to be Cu 67.08, Zn 1. 40, Pb 3.25 and Sn 26.89%. Minor elements were Fe, As, Au, Ag and Sb. The significance of the composition is discussed. The crack in the bell may have been caused by stress corrosion cracking, although there is no certain evidence for this; it was not caused by strains produced during cooling. (See also AATA 14-1241.)