Freedom Park Area Residents Awoke on January 6, 1999 to news of a major new "Tourist Attraction" to be placed in Freedom Parrk.
FRIENDS OF FREEDOM PARK was formed to stop this misuse of the Park. After nine weeks of effort, the community gained the support of the County Commision to move the Bell to some other location. The Charlotte Observer also endorsed the position of Friends of Freedom Park. Freedom Park was saved.

February 19, 1999 Charlotte Observer Editorial