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The
Bells in the tower at Saint Mark's Church have the distinction of having
been housed in three different levels in the spire. In 1876 when the
original four bells were installed, they were hung at the level of the
large louvers. The original frame was designed by Mears and Stainbank
for eight bells. In 1878 when the four lighter bells arrived the new
bells and the older ones were hoisted high in the tower. It is
thought that this was done to alleviate the loud sound of the bells from
the street. The bells were placed in a two tiered frame. This
frame was about level with the small upper louvers. There is
evidence that this installation was probably done by the McSchane firm
of Baltimore. The bells remained in this location for 120
years until their removal in the autumn of 1998. The bells are now
housed in a new steel frame slightly below the larger louvers.
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Phase 1 (October 14, 1998
- November 17, 1998)
To read about Phase 1 in
more detail please read the article Of
Mushroom Clouds Quasi Modo and the Efforts of Mere Mortals
Phase 2 (May 1, 1999 -
June 12, 1999)
To read about Phase 2 in
more detail please read the article Saint
Mark's Bells, the Grit, the Grime and the Glory
Phase 3 (June 20,1999
- September 17,2000)
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Ringing room prior to restoration. |
Another view |
After Restoration |
The Bishop Blesses the Room |
Peal Board |
New Window |
To read a wonderful
article by writer Stephanie Cowell about the dedication weekend at Saint Mark's
October 23, 24, 1999, please click The
Bells of Saint Mark's, Philadelphia.
A few pictures of the
Bells
I would like to express my thanks to Mr. John Davis for the
use of several of his pictures in the Phase I Section. I would also like
to thank Mr. A. Thomas Miller for the use of several of his pictures in the
Phase II section. I would also like to thank Ms. Sue Clopper for her picture of
the blessing of the ringing room.
