The Dagukou Fort, where the bell originated, was historically a strategic point linking sea and land routes in China. During the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, several defense forts were built in this area. The site suffered significant damage during four foreign invasions.

The Dagu Iron Bell has ties to a national hero. In 1860, during the third Dagukou war, the Chinese general Le Shan sacrificed his life on the battlefield. In his honor, the soldiers stationed at the Dagukou Fort cast the massive bell.

During the fourth Dagukou war, the Eight-Nation Alliance once again attacked, and after the fort fell, the bell was taken as a trophy by a British warship and stored in Victoria Park, Portsmouth.

In 2004, an artist in Portsmouth rediscovered the Dagu Iron Bell and recognized its historical value. He advocated for its return to China, with a replica replacing the original. Collaborating with Chinese experts and Tianjin officials, the bell was repatriated in 2005.