Celebrate American heritage with Let Freedom Ring, a unique commemorative LP released by Colpix Records in 1963. Featuring powerful spoken-word performances by Academy Award-winning actor Fredric March and acclaimed actor Burgess Meredith, this album marks the revival of a cherished national custom—the ringing of bells and the reading of the Declaration of Independence on the Fourth of July.
Produced by Jack Lewis, this release blends stirring patriotism with historical reverence. Side One presents dramatic recitations of America’s founding documents, while Side Two showcases the resonant sounds of historic bells from across the country, recorded on location. This LP is a timeless tribute to liberty and a must-have for collectors of Americana, patriotic memorabilia, and historical recordings.
Track List:
Side One:
The Declaration of Independence – Spoken by Fredric March
The Bill of Rights – Spoken by Burgess Meredith
Side Two:
LET FREEDOM RING – THE BELLS
Recorded on location at:
U.S. Military Academy
Hartford, Conn.
Kirk in the Hills, Michigan
U.S. Naval Academy
Park Forest, Ill.
U.S.S. Constitution Ship’s Bell
Groton School, Mass.
Charleston, S.C.
U.S. Coast Guard Academy
Christ Church, Philadelphia
Charles W. Morgan Ship’s Bell
Michigan State Univ.
Warren, Conn.
Kent School, Conn.
Kings Chapel, Boston
Joseph Conrad Ship’s Bell
Cincinnati, Ohio
Riverside Church, N.Y.C.
Gatefold Highlights:
Full Declaration of Independence reprinted inside
Historical background on bell-ringing as a patriotic tradition
Features bells from West Point, Liberty Bell replica, U.S. Navy, Annapolis, Charleston, and more
Technical coordination and consulting by Eric Hatch
Inspired by a campaign from This Week Magazine and the slogan “Make Freedom Really Ring!”
Catalog Info:
Colpix Records SCP 515 (Stereo)
33⅓ Long Play
Produced by Jack Lewis
A TALA Production
A Division of Columbia Pictures Corporation
Printed in U.S.A.
© 1963