WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (WVEC) - A bell from a Virginia church founded by slaves is being shipped from Virginia to the nation's capital so it can be rung Sept. 24 at the dedication of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
The bell of First Baptist Church of Williamsburg had been silent since the era of segregation until it was restored last year by the church and the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
The church unveiled it earlier this year to mark its 240th anniversary and as part of its "Let Freedom Ring" challenge. People were invited to come toll the bell for justice, peace and racial healing. The bell has since been called the "Freedom Bell."
On Monday, the bell was removed from its tower and is now on its way to the nation's capital. The bell remain at the museum until October, before returning to Williamsburg.
President Barack Obama is scheduled to be at the museum's dedication.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.