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This extraordinary bell was purchased from a museum in Gananoque, Ontario, Canada which closed in 1988 and sold many of its exhibits. There are no markings to identify its origin, but the superb craftsmanship is evident. We expended considerable effort to learn more about this bell and there has been much debate about its origin and purpose, but this much is known: (1) Based on the wood, the hardware, the forging method, and the consensus of three reputable local bell collectors (all of whom disagree with one another), the bell dates from between 1835 and 1860, possibly older, and (2) it is either an early funeral bell of English origin for high-ranking official use, or a domestic bell used by a French-Canadian Town Crier (unlike the English criers who traditionally used a smaller bell with a pole handle raised overhead, the French criers sometimes carried their bell at the side, and it rang as they walked). The bell is 10-1/4 inches high by 6-7/8 inches in diameter and weighs 7-1/2 pounds. The bronze has a beautiful patina with original hammer marks evident. The heavy iron striker is hand-forged and is 5-1/4 inches long. The hardwood handle is 4-7/8 inches wide. In original condition, shows some minor scratches and wear, but is in perfect working order with no cracks, rings clear and true. An unusual museum-quality piece with a mysterious heritage. Primitives and Antiquities; Bells; Canada; Ontario; Museum; Bronze; Town Crier;
Item Number:
A-1898-A01
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