Tower Bells
The Change Ringers are a group of volunteers who practice the English folk-art of change-ringing and help to maintain the tradition by teaching learners who enjoy the unique blend of music, mathematical pattern, physical coordination and mental engagement afforded by this quirky “exercise.” This intergenerational corps rings for 30 minutes before the midday service on Sunday mornings and on request for special services. They also travel to some of the other 50 North American towers that house bells.
The History of Christ Church’s Bell Tower
Christ Church has had three service bells within its history. The first of these was gifted by the “Ladies Working Society” in 1832. This bell now hangs in the Chapel of the Cross, Chapel Hill in the older building. After the completion of the stone bell tower in 1862, Christ Church’s second bell was purchased. This bell was much larger than the first, weighing 1,200 pounds. It hung in the bell tower until 1889, when a crack was discovered and it was no longer fit for use. The third bell, which is still in use today, was purchased in 1890 and weighs 2,000 pounds. This bell called the congregation together for the first time for public worship on Easter Day, 1890.
For a more in-depth explanation of the craft of bellringing, watch the video at this link.
For a video tour of American Bell Towers, follow this link.
All are welcome! If you’d like to learn more and/or get involved, contact Harry McKinney at (919) 852-3670, or hlmckinney@iglide.net.