LIBRARIES 
 ITHACA, N.Y. 14853 
 
 lincdb HaJl 
 
CORNELL UNIVEflSITY LIBRABY 
 
 3 1924 067 727 796 
 
Cornell University 
 Library 
 
 The original of tiiis bool< is in 
 tine Cornell University Library. 
 
 There are no known copyright restrictions in 
 the United States on the use of the text. 
 
 http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924067727796 
 
JONES & COMPANY, 
 
 % 
 
 BELL FOUNDERS, % 
 
 \ 
 
 ASD PROPKIETOKS OF THE OLD ESTABLISHED 
 
 ■^^L 
 
 ?IjL FOUl 
 
 MANDFACTUREES OF 
 
 AND 
 
 FIKE ALARM BELLS OF ALL SIZES; 
 
 EXCLUSIVE OWNERS OF 
 
 Hildreth's Patent Rotary Yoke with the Round Shank Bell. 
 
 A LARGE ASSORTMENT OF 
 
 CHUECH, ACADEMY, FACTORY, STEAMBOAT, 
 LOCOMOTIVE, PLANTATION, 
 
 AND OTHER BELLS, KEPT CONSTANTLY ON HAND, 
 Corner Adams and First Streets, 
 
 TROY, N. Y. 
 
 TROT, N. Y. 
 
 ' A. W. SCniBNER, BOOK AND JOB PRINTER, CANNON PLACE. 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 The Bells of this well known establishment are of pure 
 metal, and excel in depth and richness of tone, prolongation of 
 sound and durability. They are hung with "Patent Rotary- 
 Yokes" and other mountings, the best and most complete in 
 use, and are warranted one year against breaking, and, in all 
 respects, to give full satisfaction to the purchasers. 
 
 The Proprietors, haying been brought up from early youth to 
 an experimental and practical acquaintance with the bell busi- 
 ness in all its details, claim to be practical Bell Founders ; in 
 addition to which we have the benefit of the experience and 
 accumulated memoranda of our late father and his partner, thus 
 giving us a range of experience extending over a period of half 
 a century. We believe we are justified in saying that our Bells 
 have the best reputation of any in the market, and as their 
 manufacture is our exclusive business, to which we give our 
 entire attention, our patrons may rely upon our sustaining that 
 reputation. We have, also, the exclusive right to use the 
 Bound Shank Bell, together with a new and greatly improved 
 style of Hangings, which adds remarkably to the durability of 
 the bell, by allowing it to be readily turned in the yoke, thereby 
 bringing the blow of the clapper in a new place, and at the same 
 time increases and improves the tone, by the firm force with 
 which the round taper-shank of the bell is held immovably in 
 the yoke. We own it exclusively, and waen all others to desist 
 iBrom its use, or purchasing Bells with Round Tapeeing 
 Shank. 
 
 The Proprietors believe themselves fully warranted in saying 
 that their extensive and long continued experience, and the very 
 material improvements that have been successively invented, 
 and introduced into their method of casting bells, and the con- 
 struction and adaptation of their hangings, have enabled them 
 to bring this important branch of manufacture to a greater per- 
 
TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 fection than hitherto attained ; in proof of the correctness of 
 which they need only refer to the well established, and con- 
 stantly increasing estimation in which their bells are held by 
 the public, the large number of gold and silver medals awarded 
 them by public institutions for their superiority over all others, 
 the commendatory and highly flattering testimonials constantly 
 received from purchasers (a few of which are appended hereto), 
 a,nd their constantly increasing orders. 
 
 Situated at a point most favorable for shipping bells cheaply, 
 and with expedition to all parts of the land, their ample and 
 extensive foundry and grounds, and enlarged and superior facil- 
 ities and appliances for the manufacture of bells, are imsur- 
 passed by any other establishment in the country or the world. 
 
 We are now, and at all times, prepared to furnish Bells of 
 ALL DESCRIPTIONS, weighing from 
 
 15 to 20,000 Pounds, 
 
 and most unhesitatingly warranted to be, in each and every one 
 of the qualities and requisites which constitute a 'perfect bell, 
 equal to the best article ever manufactured. We challenge 
 comparison of our bells with any others made. 
 
 More full descriptions of the several kinds and varieties of 
 beUs, together with the hangings suitable for each, and Lists of 
 Prices, keys, dimensions, &c., will be found on subsequent 
 pages, under the appropriate heads. 
 
 B ^ Ij L 8 
 
 Cast and hung by these improved methods and processes, far 
 excel those made in the ordinary way, in Tone, Durability, and 
 Volume of Sound, as well as in Perfect Finish. This was tested 
 in competition with different Bell Founders in the United States 
 at the Fair of the Mechanics' Metropolitan Institute, at 
 Washington, D. C, in February, 1853, and a premium was 
 awarded us for the most perfect Castings, clearest tone, and 
 longest vibration, of Bells of the same weight, over the oldest 
 Bell Manufacturers in this country. We were also awarded the 
 highest premium at the State Fair, held at Saratoga Springs, 
 in September, 18-53. And at the State Fair, held at Water- 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 town in 1856, we again received the highest premium — our 
 bells being pronounced superior in richness and power of tone. 
 At the Fair of the American Institute, held at Castle Garden, 
 New York, October, 1853, we were awarded a Gold Medal for 
 superior bells ; again in 1855, the only Medal for best specimen 
 of Church Bells, was awarded us. We also received the First 
 Premium at the Iowa State Agricultural Society Fair, held 
 in 1856, for best Church Bells ; also, the First Premium from 
 the Connecticut State Agricultural Society Fair, held at 
 New Haven in 1856 ; at the 
 
 ^^^ORL^>'S FAIR, 
 
 held at the Crystal Falace, January, 1854, we received the Medal 
 for superior tone and finish of Bells, in competition with those 
 of Europe, and several from this country. 
 
 At the State Fair held at Albany, in October, 1859, we 
 received premiums as follows, viz. : 
 
 First Premium on ----- Church Bells. 
 First Premium on - - - Academy Bells. 
 
 First Premium on - - - - Locomotive Bells. 
 First Premium on ----- Chime of Bells. 
 First Premium on - - - Paient Rotary Yoke. 
 Besides a Special award of the Large Silver Medal to the 
 Chime. 
 
 These were the only First Premiums awarded on either of the 
 above classes of Bells. 
 
 Patent Notary Yoke. 
 
 We ask especial attention to the fact, that our Patent Kotary 
 Yoke, (Hildreth's Patent,) was also awarded the Large Silver 
 Medal, over all competition. For its advantages see page 8. 
 
 At the annual meeting of the New York State Agricultural 
 Society, held at Elmira, N. Y., in 1860, we received the follow- 
 ing awards : 
 
 Best Chime of Bells, - - - - First Premium. 
 
 Best Fire Alarm Bells, - - - First Premium. 
 
 Best Church Bells, - - - - First Premium. 
 
 Best Collection of Bells, - - First Premium. 
 and on our Patent Botary To^e for Bells, First Premium. 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDEY. 
 
 In 1866, at Saratoga, N. Y., we received the 
 
 Highest Premium bN 
 Highest Premium on 
 Highest Premium on 
 Highest Premium on 
 Highest Peejiium osr 
 Highest Premium on 
 
 - - Patent Kotart Yoke. 
 Fire Alarm Bell. 
 Church Bell. 
 Academy Bell. 
 Plantation Bell. 
 Best Collection of Bells. 
 and we have received the First Premium at other competative 
 exhibitions. 
 
 As an evidence of the superiority of our manufactures, we 
 refer not only to these and many other Premiums received at 
 different times, but to thousands of our Bells now ringing 
 throughout the United States* the British Possessions and 
 Spanish America, and commendatory letters from those who 
 have purchased them, without number. (See page 29.) The 
 various Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals, also the Diplomas re- 
 ceived, may be seen at our office at any time. 
 
 [Note. — All towers intended for Bells ought to be ceiled overhead to prevent the 
 sound ascending into the tower, and the windows well opened (entirely, if possible,) 
 to fully obtain the power of the Bellj] 
 
 Patent Metallic FlasJ^s. 
 
 The new mode of casting Bells in Perforated Metallic Flasks, 
 now concededly the greatest modern improvement in the manu- 
 facture of Bells, was invented, patented, and first introduced at 
 this establishment. 
 
 Previous to this invention, the 
 moulds being made of clay and 
 brick, had to be imbedded in the 
 earth to prevent fracture in cast- 
 ing, and no provision being made 
 for the escape of confined air and 
 gasses, an imperfect or porous cast- 
 ing was too often the result, where- 
 as these Metallic Flasks are made 
 with numerous perforations, to 
 prevent this difficulty. They con- 
 sist of an outside Flask, (A) and 
 an inside Flask, (B) of the general 
 form of a Bell, as shown in the cut, 
 the one coated externally, and the other internally, with a com- 
 bustible matter mixed with loam. 
 
TEOY BELL FOUNDKT. 
 
 A, B, represents the two flasks 
 closed together as in casting, with 
 a section removed to show -the rel- 
 ative position of the flasks with 
 their several coatings, and the bell 
 between them. The combustible 
 matter burns out soon after the 
 Bell is cast, giving it an opportunity to shrink, and thus pre- 
 venting the occurrence of what is called a fire-crack or strain. 
 Being above ground when cast, the gases escape freely, and 
 there is a circulation of cool air, both in and outside of the 
 mould. This causes the Bell to cool evenly, and a perfect and 
 solid casting is the result, combining great strength and dura- 
 bility. 
 
 Our manner of closing the moulds by means of guides concen- 
 trically arranged in reference to the inner and outer flasks, (see 
 A, B,) enables us to secure perfect uniformity in the thickness 
 of the Bell. This renders the vibration perfect and more last- 
 ing, and produces from the Bell, not only the greatest amount 
 of sound of which the metal it contains is susceptible, but that 
 which is most rich, musical and agreeable ; whereas in the old 
 mode of casting. Bells are often found thicker on one side than 
 the other and consequently of an imperfect and unpleasant 
 tone, and liable to crack after some use. 
 
TEOT BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 "Hildreth's Patent Rotary Yoke," 
 
 AND 
 
 THE ROUN^D SHA^N^K BELL, 
 
 USED WITH 
 
 JONES & GO'S BELLS ONLY, 
 
 SECUEINO 
 
 ©miJLTLY IlfgmiASlD DWmABILITY, 
 
 AND 
 
 A More Full and Perfect Tone. 
 
 /w^ The Troy Bell Foundry 
 
 , own this patent, and the 
 
 -^-==J' exclusive right to manufac- 
 
 .„-r-=*r^^^^ — Y ture and sell Round Shank 
 
 T'^7"f*"»"Eg||5-'if*\_^ Bells, provided and hung 
 .*i'i' i.i t"*!. \ i* vfith this Yoke, and have 
 
 ''"** ■ ' ^^S^ S^itt^ . i ' adapted it to all their Bells. 
 ■=|["__^j -!l R ■ . 'j l" . ] ''-||_, The advantages arising 
 
 ^*°^ from this invention and ap- 
 
 pliance are very obvious, as 
 wrill appear by a little expla- 
 nation. The old mode of 
 hanging Bells causes the 
 clapper to strike constantly 
 in tvpo places only, on oppo- 
 site sides of the Bell, and in a direct line, so as to eventually 
 cut it in tvsro, vsrhich result is only a question of time. Whereas, 
 by the use of the above yoke, a man can change the blow^ of 
 the clapper to any other point in the circumference of the Bell 
 in one minute, and as often as desired, leaving the Bell hung in 
 the most perfect order, and the clapper and springs all the while 
 
TKOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 undisturbed and requiring no alteration, thus materially lessen- 
 ing the risk of breaking, and increasing the durability of the 
 Bell beyond measure. 
 
 The Bell, it will be seen, is cast with a round tapering shank, 
 made to exactly fit in a corresponding hole in the yoke. 
 
 The Bell is fastened in the yoke by a bolt, B, (as shown in 
 the cut above,) with the Bell resting on the shoulders of the 
 bolt. This bolt passes up through the shank of the Bell, and 
 through a metal cap, {w) with a nut (n) screwed on the top of 
 the bolt. By screwing up this nut, the shank is drawn firmly 
 into the yoke, and they are held together with great solidity 
 and force. 
 
 When it is desired to turn the Bell, it is only necessary to 
 slacken or unscrew the nut a little, sufficiently to relieve the 
 shank from contact with the yoke, and the bell will freely turn, 
 resting on the shoulders of the bolt, and is made fast again by 
 tightening up the nut. This is a process so simple and easily 
 2 
 
10 TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 performed, that a Bell of any size, may, when the nut is 
 loosened, be turned by the hand alone. 
 
 The cap w is doweled to the yoke, so that it can not turn 
 with the nut, and the bolt is prevented from turning by a pro- 
 jection from its sides, fitting a groove in the cap, by which 
 means the swing of the tongue is kept always at right angles 
 to the yoke, and it and the springs held stationary while the 
 Bell is turned. 
 
 After turning the Bell, care should be taken to bring the 
 shank again very snug and firmly into the yoke by tightening 
 the nut with considerable force. A wrench is sent with each 
 Church Bell. 
 
 Improved Tone. 
 
 It is proved by experience, that the tone of the Bell is 
 brought out much more fully and clearly by the firmness with 
 which the shank of the Bell is held by this appliance in its 
 corresponding socket in the yoke, than by the old plan, whereby 
 the hoiTis of the Bell are merely held by staples, in contact 
 with the under side of the yoke. This method is unquestiona- 
 bly a great improvement in hanging Bells, and as such was 
 awarded the silver medal of the American Institute for such 
 improvement. We own it exclusively, and warn all others to 
 desist from its use, or purchasing bells with the "round tapering 
 shank." 
 
 Note.— The great and increasing favor in whiuh this Patent Yoke with the Round 
 Shank Bell is heM by the piibh'e, has led recently to a cumbersome imitation of it, in 
 which it is attempted to adapt the old fashioned Bell, cast with horns, to being turned 
 in the yoke. The arrangement, however, is so complicated and difficult to put in 
 operation as to be of little practical value. This, however, not working to the satis- 
 faction of the purchasers of Bells, another imitation (and which we claim is an 
 infringement upon our " Round Shank Bells"), has been resorted to. The Bells are 
 cast with "Round Shank," but have Ihree bolts set into the shank of the Bell, with 
 one bolt passing through the Bell, and all four passing through the metal cap, {w\ 
 and in order to turn the Bell all four nuts have to be loosened before the Bell can be 
 turned. Another objection which all persons will at once perceive, is the three bolts 
 which 'are set into the outside of the shank, thus materially weakening the shank of 
 the Bell, and the liability of the Bell breaking is increased instead of diminished. 
 
 In behalf of those interested in this imitation it has been insinuated that a single 
 BOLT, though sufficient to hold a small Bell, might not prove safe for a large one, to 
 which we answer, that there is plainly no force in the objection, if the size of the 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 11 
 
 bolt is in proportion, to the size of the Boll. We have for years, hung the largest 
 Church Bells and Fire Alarm Bells, (weighing from 8,000 to II.OOO pounds,) with a 
 single bolt, and not one of them has ever failed or broJcen, and we are ready to, and 
 will in every instance if desired, bind ourselves in a satisfactory penalty that it shall 
 not happen. 
 
 A Moveable Journal. 
 
 We attach this so that the Bell can be raised or lowered in 
 the yoke by means of the notched pivot arm bolted to the ends 
 of the yoke, as shown in the cut on page 9, thus enabling any 
 person to ring the largest bell with ease. For method of using 
 this see directions at page 24. 
 
 Steel Springs 
 
 Are so arranged and connected with the clapper, that it can not 
 rest on the Bell, preventing the rebounding or jarring, (often 
 heard where this is wanting,) prolonging the vibration, and 
 improving the sound. These also are shown in the cut at page 
 9, where sp. represents the spring. 
 
 Frame, Wheel, Tolling Hammer, &c. 
 
 A timber frame, on which are placed the Iron Standards sup- 
 porting the Bell, the Wheel, an extra Hammer for tolling, and 
 a wrench accompany each Bell, and in cases of large Bells, a 
 Counterpoise, to lessen the labor of ringing, and a Stop, to 
 avoid the throwing over of the bell ; in short, every appendage 
 necessary for the hanging and ringing of bells. All, or any 
 part will be furnished if desired. 
 
 Prices of Bells. 
 
 Owing to the constant fluctuations in the price of metals on 
 which the price of Bells depends, no uniform rate can be 
 printed in a circular at which they will continue to be sold, but 
 all inquiries from those desiring to purchase will be promptly 
 responded to, and the lowest rates given. 
 
 Address, 
 
 "JONES & CO., Troy, N. Y." 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDRY 
 
 CHUECTI BELLS. 
 
 A complete assortment of Church Bells, of all sizes, from the 
 smallest to the largest ever used, kept constantly on hand, made 
 of the purest metal, cast on the improved plan above described, 
 and hung vyith " Hildreth's Patent Rotary Yoke," the only really 
 practical appliance which permits the Bell to be turned in the 
 yoke at pleasure, so as to prevent the liability to break (see p. 8), 
 a detached arm which secures ease in ringing ; Steel Springs 
 which hold the clapper from the Bell after it has struck, and 
 prolong and improve the sound. Wooden Frame and Iron 
 Stands, or uprights for supporting the Bell ; Wheel of Oak 
 timber and Tolling Hammer fitted with a clevis to the frame, 
 each and all, the same in every respect, as separately herein- 
 before described, and constituting the most complete, perfect 
 and convenient fixtures for using the Bell under all circumstances 
 yet devised. Sometimes Bells of less than 400 lbs. are used for 
 small Churches, Chapels, &c., for which see " Academy, Factory 
 and Depot Bells," page 14. 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 13 
 
 In the accompanying table will be found our list of Churcli 
 Bells, range within which they may be toned, diameter at 
 mouth, size of frame and wheel, and price of mountings : 
 
 WKIGIIT OF 
 BELL. 
 
 KEYS. 
 
 DIAMETER. 
 
 SIZE 
 
 OF FRAME. 
 
 DIAMETER OF 
 WHEEL. 
 
 PKICK OK 
 HANGINGS. 
 
 400 lbs. 
 
 C toE 
 
 27 in. 
 
 38 in. Square. 
 
 48 in. 
 
 $ 23.00 
 
 500 " 
 
 B6 "D 
 
 29 " 
 
 38 
 
 1 (1 
 
 48 " 
 
 30.00 
 
 600 " 
 
 B6 " C| 31 " 
 
 43 
 
 1 (I 
 
 53 " 
 
 32.00 
 
 700 " 
 
 A " C^ 
 
 33 " 
 
 43 
 
 i .i 
 
 53 " 
 
 35.00 
 
 800 " 
 
 A " C 
 
 34 " 
 
 48 
 
 i it 
 
 63 " 
 
 36.00 
 
 900 " 
 
 A6" B 
 
 36 " 
 
 50 
 
 i (( 
 
 63 " 
 
 40.00 
 
 1000 " 
 
 A6 " B 
 
 38 " 
 
 51 
 
 ( it 
 
 66 " 
 
 40.00 
 
 1100 " 
 
 G " Bb 
 
 40 " 
 
 53 
 
 1 (( 
 
 69 » 
 
 40.00 
 
 1200 " 
 
 G " B 
 
 41 " 
 
 53 
 
 I 1( 
 
 69 " 
 
 46.00 
 
 1300 " 
 
 F|"A 
 F*"A 
 
 42 " 
 
 53 
 
 ( (( 
 
 69 " 
 
 45.00 
 
 1400 " 
 
 43 " 
 
 55 
 
 i i 
 
 78 " 
 
 50.00 
 
 1500 " 
 
 F "G| 
 
 44 " 
 
 58 
 
 i (( 
 
 78 " 
 
 50.00 
 
 1600 " 
 
 F " G| 
 E "G* 
 
 44 " 
 
 58 
 
 ( (1 
 
 78 " 
 
 50.00 
 
 1800 " 
 
 45 " 
 
 64 
 
 i (1 
 
 84 " 
 
 66.00 
 
 2000 " 
 
 E6 "G 
 
 46 " 
 
 64 
 
 ( 1( 
 
 84 " 
 
 70.00 
 
 2200 " 
 
 Eb "G 
 
 48 " 
 
 67 
 
 it ti 
 
 84 " 
 
 70.0C 
 
 2300 " 
 
 E6 " F| 
 
 49 " 
 
 67 
 
 ( a 
 
 84 " 
 
 76.00 
 
 2500 " 
 
 D " F 
 
 50 " 
 
 72 
 
 II 11 
 
 90 " 
 
 80.00 
 
 2800 " 
 
 D " F 
 
 52 " 
 
 72 
 
 t .1 
 
 90 " 
 
 86.00 
 
 3000 " 
 
 D " F 
 
 53 " 
 
 72 
 
 11 II 
 
 90 " 
 
 90.00 
 
 3300 " 
 
 D6"E 
 
 54 " 
 
 76 
 
 II u 
 
 90 " 
 
 90.00 
 
 3500 " 
 
 D6" E 
 
 66 " 
 
 77 
 
 I II 
 
 96 " 
 
 95.00 
 
 4000 " 
 
 C " E6 
 
 58 " 
 
 77 
 
 II II 
 
 96 " 
 
 100.00 
 
 4500 " 
 
 c " m 
 
 60 " 
 
 82 
 
 I II 
 
 102 " 
 
 110.00 
 
 5000 " 
 
 B "D 
 
 62 " 
 
 82 
 
 I II 
 
 102 " 
 
 120.00 
 
 Chimes of Bells, hung in an Oak Frame, as shown on pages 
 17-19, or adapted to space and position in the Tower, at prices 
 ranging from $126 to $300, — or each Bell hung separately with 
 the Patent Eotary Yoke when desired, as is sometimes the case. 
 
 Eemaek.— In procnring a bell, parties pnrchaBing would do well to leave the determination 
 of its tone to onr discretion. It is frequently the case that the ringing quality of a bell is 
 seriously impaired by its having been made upon a tone either higher or lower than that which 
 the weight of metal is best calculated to give. This most frequently arises from endeavoring 
 to imitate the tone of a favorite bell, in a new one, without due regard to their comparative 
 weight. Of the range of tones of any bell given in our table, a medium between the highest 
 and lowest will usually be found most desirable. 
 
 The diameters of bells, as given in our tables, exceed the exact measurements by fi-actional 
 parts of an inch. 
 
 The weights given are those which designate the pattern, the actual weights usually exceed- 
 ing these by from two to three per cent. 
 
14 
 
 TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 FACTOEY, ACADEMY & DEPOT BELLS. 
 
 From 100 lbs. to 400 lbs. in weight ; hung with " Hildreth's 
 Patent Rotary Yoke," which prevents the Bell from being 
 broken in ringing, (see page 8,) Iron Wheel and Standards, tim- 
 ber frame and Steel Springs, being as full hangings in every 
 respect as for Church Bells, except the Tolling Hammer and 
 wrench. 
 
 LIST OF ACADEMY, FACTORY AND DEPOT BELLS. 
 
 WKIGHT. 
 
 DIA. 
 
 SIZE OF 
 FRAME. 
 
 PEICS OF 
 HANGINGS. 
 
 WEIGHT. 
 
 DIA. 
 
 SIZE OF 
 FRAUE. 
 
 PRICE OF 
 
 hangi'gs 
 
 100 
 
 17 in. 
 
 26 in. Sq. 
 
 $10.00 
 
 226 
 
 23 in. 
 
 33 in. Sq. 
 
 $15.00 
 
 125 
 
 18 " 27 " " 
 
 10.00 
 
 250 
 
 24 » 
 
 34 " " 
 
 18.00 
 
 150 
 
 19 " 28 " " 
 
 12.00 
 
 300 
 
 25 " 
 
 35 " " 
 
 18.00 
 
 180 
 
 20 " 31 " " 
 
 15.00 
 
 350 
 
 26 " 
 
 36 " " 
 
 20.00 
 
 200 |22 " |33 " " 
 
 15,00 
 
 375 
 
 26 " 
 
 36 " " 
 
 20.00 
 
TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 15 
 
 STEAMBOAT BELLS, 
 
 Hanging from 100 lbs. to 700 lbs., 
 mounted with Revolving Yoke, with 
 lever-arm attached, for steamboat 
 ringing. Polished bells furnished to 
 order ; as also Grallows Frames and 
 Fancy Mountings. 
 
 LIST OF STEAMBOAT BELLS. 
 
 WEIGHT. 
 
 PRICE YOKE 
 AND CKANK. 
 
 WEIGHT. 
 
 PRICE YOKE 
 AND CKANK. 
 
 100 lbs. 
 
 $6.00 
 
 350 lbs. 
 
 $12.00 
 
 150 " 
 
 7.00 
 
 400 " 
 
 15.00 
 
 180 " 
 
 8.00 
 
 450 » 
 
 15.00 
 
 200 " 
 
 10.00 
 
 500 " 
 
 18.00 
 
 250 " 
 
 10.00 
 
 600 » 
 
 18.00 
 
 300 " 
 
 12.00 
 
 700 " 
 
 18.00 
 
 SHIP BELLS, 
 
 Of any size, turned and finished in fancy hangings, in brass or 
 bronze. Any lettering or inscription engraved on the BeUs or 
 Yokes desired. 
 
16 
 
 TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 Locomotive, Plantation & Hose Carriage Bells 
 
 Banging from 15 lbs. to 150 lbs. ; mounted with Yoke and 
 Tail, plain Yoke, or without mounting. Locomotive Bells cast 
 with shank of any desired shape, without extra charge. Pol- 
 ished Bells furnished to order. 
 
 BELLS OF LESS THAN 100 LBS. 
 Are usually furnished with a Yoke and Sparrow Tail only. 
 
 PRICES OF YOKE AND TAIL. 
 
 15 lbs. ) 
 20 lbs. 5 
 25 lbs. 
 30 lbs. 
 40 lbs. 
 
 $2.00. 
 
 $3.00. 
 $3.50. 
 
 50 lbs. 
 60 lbs. ) 
 80 lbs. 5 
 90 lbs. 
 100 lbs. 
 
 $3.50. 
 $4.00. 
 
 $5.00. 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDEY. 
 
 17 
 
 CHIME 
 
 ' Y * Placed In St. Steplicn's CJinreb, Plilladelplifa, 
 
 XiNK Bells, Key of D. Weight 12.798 lbs. 
 
 The first complete Chime m-.ide in this country. 
 3 
 
IS TROT BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 Chimes of Bells, 
 
 By this term is usually implied any number of bells which 
 are attuned with each other, although, strictly speaking, a chime 
 is a set of bells, the tones of which, beginning with the largest 
 (commonly called the tenor), follow each other in diatonic suc- 
 cession. A peal, as now generally understood in this country, 
 consists of three or more bells attuned in harmonic succession, 
 which may be ruug successively or simultaneously, but will not 
 admit of a tune being played upon them. Thus a set of bells 
 upon the eight notes of the common scale would be a chime ; a 
 
 i 
 
 Chime. Teal. 
 
 set upon the first, third, fifth and eighth of the scale would be 
 a peal. 
 
 The smallest number of bells that may be said to compose a 
 chime is five, beyond which the number may be increased in- 
 definitely. What might be called the natural number would be 
 eight — corresponding with the eight notes of the natural scale. 
 Inasmuch, however, as the addition of the flat seventh tone to 
 the common scale gives a new series of diatonic tones — ^to the 
 number of five — in the key of the fourth, thus affording music 
 in two keys, and, as the bell which produces that tone is of com- 
 paratively light weight, it is usually added to the octave, so that 
 a full chime is now understood to consist of at least nine bells. 
 By the addition of the sharp fourth tone a new series of six may 
 also be obtained in the key of the second, but as this requires a 
 much heavier bell it is but seldom employed. The whole number 
 of bells rarely exceeds twelve, since those above the octave — 
 unless the chime begins with a tenor of remarkable weight — are 
 necessarily too light to give either the depth or volume of tone 
 which is desirable. 
 
 The usual manner of mounting chimes in this country, is to 
 suspend the bells stationarily (except the tenor) from a frame or 
 beams, constructed in such a manner as will conform with the 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 1!) 
 
 size and construction of the tower. The bells are rung by 
 
 means of cords 
 attached to the 
 clappers and led 
 by pullies to the 
 ringer's room be- 
 low, where they 
 are [connected — 
 in the order of 
 ^^^^the notes — with 
 lever handles so 
 
 Chime of Bells— Elevalioii (one side.) arranged that the 
 
 bells may all be chimed by one person. The tenor bell is pro- 
 vided with mountings for swinging in order that it may be rung 
 as an ordinary church bell, and is usually placed in the centre 
 of the bell-room (or as in cut on page 17), the others being placed 
 about it in such relative positions as will most judiciously dis- 
 tribute the weight and allow of the best arrangement of the 
 ringing cords. In the English mode of mounting, each bell is 
 
 provided with a 
 yoke and wheel, 
 and the tone is 
 produced by os- 
 cillating the bells 
 as in ordinary 
 church bell ring- 
 ing, the whole be- 
 ing sustained by 
 a heavy and com- 
 plicated frame : 
 the bells are rung 
 by a corps of 
 ringers— one man 
 being employed 
 
 Chime of Bells— Horizontal Plun (looking from above.) at each — ^to Or- 
 
20 TROY BELL POUNDEY. 
 
 ganize and sustain which, particularly in a small town, is a mat- 
 ter of some difficulty. It will be seen that our mode of mount- 
 ing is preferable in that a considerable poi-tion of the original 
 expense of ringing apparatus is saved ; the chiming of the bells, 
 being accomplished by one person, is not attended with that 
 expense and trouble involved in keeping up a corps of ringers ; 
 the necessity for that long practice which a coriDs of ringers 
 must have together, in order to ring even passably, is avoided ; 
 the bell-room does not require to be of as great capacity in 
 order to accommodate the bells, and the strain and momentum 
 produced by a number of bells swinging simultaneously being 
 avoided, the tower does not require to be of as great strength. 
 It is true, no doubt, of a single bell, that the peculiar crescendo 
 and diminuendo tone which it gives when swinging, is preferable 
 to the monotony of tone produced by striking it when at rest, 
 but this monotony disappears when a number of hannonic bells 
 are struck successively. 
 
 Peals of bells, since it is impracticable to play tunes upon 
 them, usually have each bell mounted to be swung, so that a 
 very pleasant variety of tone is obtained by their successive 
 ringing, or when rung simultaneously-^as upon national days 
 and festive occasions — a fine effect is thus produced. It is 
 usually contemplated, however, that a peal shall form the nucleus 
 of a future chime, and with this view we always take and retain 
 the exact tone of peal bells, and, when desired, that of single 
 bells also, so that we may be able, at any subsequent time, to 
 add others in harmony. 
 
 The illustrations given on pages 17-19 show our usual plans of 
 placing chimes in the tower. 
 
 We pay particular attention to getting up Peals or Chimes of 
 Bells, keyed on any letter of the musical scale desired. We com- 
 mence the scale on 0, D, E flat, E, E, or G. From either of these 
 we can ascend an octave, and by adding one bell to the different 
 scales, tunes can by played in different keys. Eor instance, in the 
 key of C add F sharp, key of D add G sharp, key of E add D 
 natural, and so on in each scale. With our improved mode of cast- 
 ing we are enabled to cast them precisely on their respective keys, 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 21 
 
 without resorting to the ordinary way of chipping or filing. This 
 has never been done by any other Founders in this country or 
 Europe. We would refer to one recently made at this Foundry and 
 hung in St. Stephen's Church, Philadelphia (a correct design of 
 which may be seen on page 17, the first co^iplete chime ever 
 made in this country, and would call your attention to the list of 
 Peals, Chimes and Chime Bells below, which we are at liberty 
 to refer to. 
 
 List of Chimes, Feals, and Chime Bells 
 
 Which have been made at the Old Established Troy BeU Foundry, Troy, IT. Y. 
 
 Year. 
 
 Where Sent. 
 
 
 -is 
 
 Weight of 
 
 the largest 
 
 Ben. 
 
 Total 
 Weight. 
 
 1853, 
 
 St,. Stephen's Ulnirch, Philadelpliia, f 
 
 a.,.. 
 
 9 
 
 2,838 Ihs. 
 
 12.798 lbs. 
 
 <t 
 
 Rev. H. O. Sheldon, Bacon, 0., 
 
 
 2 
 
 1,550 
 
 II 
 
 2,510 
 
 (( 
 
 1854, 
 
 First Evangelist Lutheran Church, 
 
 Lan- 
 
 
 
 caster. Pa 
 
 
 8 
 3 
 
 2,020 
 1,073 
 
 
 8,144 
 2,327 
 
 i( 
 
 (( 
 
 Rev. Z. B. H. Marcotte,De Lavaltrie, 
 
 es., 
 
 11 
 
 1855, 
 
 " J. 0. Pare, Montreal, C. E 
 
 
 3 
 
 2,989 
 
 
 6,789 
 
 " 
 
 kl 
 
 'i Mr. Laport, Kildare, C. E , 
 
 
 3 
 
 946 
 
 
 2,235 
 
 U 
 
 U 
 
 ■" J. B. Labelle, Repentigny, 0. E 
 
 )' • • • 
 
 4 
 
 1,504 
 
 
 3,644 
 
 a 
 
 (. 
 
 *Holj Cross Church, Troy, N. Y., . . 
 
 
 1 
 
 550 
 
 
 550 
 
 (( 
 
 1857, 
 
 
 1 1 
 
 2,271 
 
 
 9,899 
 
 (( 
 
 1859 
 
 J. Anderson, New York Cit j'', 
 
 3 
 
 1 
 
 1,300 
 2,009 
 
 
 2,834 
 2,009 
 
 (( 
 
 u 
 
 St. Joseph's Church, Fremont, 
 
 
 11 
 
 ll 
 
 Rev. L. M. Braissard. St. Roch L'Acliigan, 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 0. B 
 
 
 3 
 
 9 
 
 750 
 350 
 
 
 1,550 
 1,656 
 
 u 
 
 1860, 
 
 Rev. Alonzo G. Shears, New Haven 
 
 , Ct., 
 
 » 
 
 (( 
 
 Church of the Nativity, Bridgeport, 
 
 Ct., 
 
 10 
 
 500 
 
 
 1,803 
 
 '' 
 
 U 
 
 Trinity Church Trenton N. J 
 
 
 4 
 1 
 
 518 
 1,582 
 
 
 992 
 1,582 
 
 i- 
 
 1861, 
 
 Rev. J. Harper, St. Gregoire, C. K., 
 
 
 " 
 
 (1 
 
 Rev. J.C. Marquis, St. Pierre Celestin. 
 
 C.B. 
 
 3 
 
 660 
 
 
 1,281 
 
 n. 
 
 1862, 
 
 Rev. Rupert Lgidenbusli, Newark, N. J., 
 
 2 
 
 1,714 
 
 
 2,650 
 
 li 
 
 1863. 
 
 Rev. B. T. Hurteau, St. Lin, C. B-,. 
 
 
 3 
 
 1,208 
 
 
 2,611 
 
 u 
 
 1864, 
 
 Rev. C. A. Loranger, Lanoraie, C. 
 
 B.,.. 
 
 4 
 
 1,555 
 
 
 3,253 
 
 " 
 
 (( 
 
 Christ Church Detroit. Mich 
 
 
 q 
 
 2,410 
 
 
 9,708 
 1,311 
 
 (t 
 
 (( 
 
 H Schneider Bsa Erie, Pa 
 
 '> 
 
 792 
 
 
 (C. 
 
 a 
 
 Rev. J. Ch6vigny, Contrecceur, C. E., 
 
 .... 
 
 3 
 
 1,418 
 
 
 2,681 
 
 u. 
 
 1865 
 
 Rev P BedarJ L'BDiDhanie C E , . 
 
 
 s 
 
 1,215 
 
 
 2,608 
 
 14 
 
 1867| 
 
 Rev. U. A.rchambault, St. Bartheleme, 
 
 C.E. 
 
 3 
 
 1,991 
 
 
 3,932 
 
 11 
 
 u 
 
 St. Joseph's Churcii, Fremont, 0.,... 
 
 
 2 
 
 1,173 
 
 
 1,910 
 
 ii 
 
 II . 
 
 St. Augustine Catholic Church, Lansing- 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 bureh NY 
 
 
 3 
 
 1,600 
 
 
 3,200 
 
 it 
 
 II 
 
 Convent of Sacred Heart, Kenwood 
 
 Al. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 bany, N.Y 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 1,069 
 
 
 2,350 
 
 u 
 
 *Thi8 Bell was originally cast (by another foundry.) to go with the Chime in that Church, bnt 
 was decided to be the wrong key, and we were called upon to recai-t it. 
 
 Hangings for Chimes.— For method of hanging Chimes, and rates of hangings, see page 13. 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDRY 
 
 ALAZ^M BELLS 
 
 Patterns expressly for Fire Alarm Bells, of any desired weight, 
 up to 20,000 lbs., hung in the same manner as those used in New 
 York, with Carson's Patent Fire Alarm Striking Apparatus at- 
 tached, if desired. The largest ever cast in this country, and now 
 in use in New York city, were cast by us within the last few years, 
 (as were nearly all of those now in use there,) also one in San 
 Francisco. 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 23 
 
 Clapper Springs 
 
 Are attached to all bells of 100 lbs., and upwards ; the position 
 and action of which will be understood upon reference to the 
 cut upon the 9th page. The spring and clapper-clevis are both 
 connected to the centre bolt which passes up through the top of 
 the bell, and by it the arms of the spring are always held in the 
 path in which the clapper swings, catching it just before it 
 reaches the bell, permitting it to strike with sufficient force, and 
 then holding it away so that the vibration is uninterrupted, and 
 its clattering upon the bell, after having struck, is avoided. To 
 avoid the noise of contact of the clapper against the spring, the 
 arms of the latter are sheathed at the ends with leather, which 
 should be renewed occasionally as they become worn. Should 
 the spring, after usage, be found to allow the clapper to strike a 
 double blow it may be remedied by putting in a bar between the 
 arms and the side of the bell, and bending them out a little further. 
 
 Tolling Hammer. 
 
 Bells of 400 lbs., and upwards, are furnished with a tolling 
 hammer which is attached to the frame, as shown in the cut upon 
 the 12th page. This is a very desirable appendage for tolling, as 
 by it a uniform and full blow may be obtained, and it is also very 
 eifective in giving a quick fire-alarm blow. When the bell is 
 being rung by the main rope, the tolling hammer cord — ^if not 
 under the eye of the ringer — should be so secured that it may 
 not be thoughtlessly pulled, since the hammer is thus liable to 
 be broken off and even the bell dismounted. 
 
 Stop. 
 
 To prevent bells of large weight from being thrown over in 
 ringing (which, owing to the manner in which the rope is ad- 
 justed for such bells, deranges its connection with the wheel), 
 we attach a stop, or clutch, to the rim of the wheel, and a cor- 
 responding one to the frame platform, which clutches, coming 
 in contact with each other just before the bell is mouth up, 
 arrest its motion and allow it to swing back again. 
 
24 
 
 TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 Old Bells. 
 
 Old bell metal (copper and tin) bells taken in part payment 
 for new ones, or bought outright. When forwarded to us 
 mark legibly upon them in addition to our address, by whom 
 sent, as it may avoid confusion. 
 
 Inscriptions. 
 
 Any desired inscription will be put upon bells made to order, 
 without extra charge. 
 
 Directions for Mounting, Hinging, &c. 
 
 In constructing the tower, if 
 practicable, openings should be 
 left so that the bell may be ele- 
 vated to its place through the 
 inside. Should it be necessary, 
 however, to hoist it from the 
 outside, the accompanying cut 
 will give an idea of the manner 
 in which it may be done. From 
 near the top of one of the win- 
 dows of the bell-room, project, 
 at an elevated angle, a stick of 
 timber of sufficient strength, 
 at the end of which a tackle is 
 attached. The timber must 
 have a firm bearing and be se- 
 cured so that it can not move. 
 If sufficient power can not be 
 applied to the tackle from 
 within the bell-room, then lead 
 the rope to the ground and pass 
 it through a stationary pulley, 
 so that any number of men, or 
 a team, may draw upon it. 
 Having got the bell to the 
 drawn in with a single rope or a 
 
 proper height it may 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 25 
 
 small tackle. In whatever manner the bell is hoisted, the frame 
 should first be got up and placed in position so that it has a firm 
 and level bearing ; the wheel should also be got up and in readi- 
 ness to attach. If desirable,' the stands may be readily taken 
 off from the frame, and the frame itself unjointed and 
 taken up in pieces. Should it be impracticable to set the 
 bell in the frame at once when hoisted, it may, if a new purchase 
 with the tackle cannot be conveniently rigged, be raised from 
 the bell-room floor by levers and blocking, care being taken not 
 to break out its edges in using iron bars. In bolting on the 
 wheel arm of the yoke, place it at the same notch as the other ; 
 and also place the wheel upon the opposite side of the frame to 
 that to which the tolling hammer is attached. After the bell is 
 mounted, brace the stands firmly sidewise, either to the floor 
 or the sides of the tower, so as to prevent their becoming broken 
 by any accidental side strain. 
 
 The manner of attaching the 
 rope is shown in the accompany- 
 ing cut, it being fastened to the 
 wheel at A, and passes down 
 directly under the center of the 
 bell through the sheaves at B. 
 With this arrangement the bell 
 may be thrown over, as it will 
 be more or less, and the connec- 
 tion of the rope with the wheel 
 will not be deranged. If the 
 weight of the bell is such that 
 with the bend in the rope at B 
 the labor of ringing is too great, then it may be run down in 
 the direction of the dotted line, passing through the floor at C, 
 in which case no sheaves are necessary. With the rope so 
 arranged it is necessary to prevent the bell from being thrown 
 over, to effect which, a stop is attached to the wheel, as described 
 at page 23, with which, however, care must be exercised when 
 ringing, else the bell may swing with too great force when 
 arrested by it, thus jarring the tower and injuring the mountings. 
 
26 TEOT BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 The rope should not be larger than is necessary, since by its 
 inflexibility and weight it may encumber the free swing of the 
 bell. The following sizes of ropes are suitable : 
 
 For bells of less than 500 pounds, J inch diameter. 
 " from 500 to 800 " f " 
 " from 900 to 1500 " f " 
 " above 1500 " 1 
 
 In order that the sound of the bell may have free egress, its 
 mouth, when at rest, ought not to be lower than the bottom of 
 the windows, at the top of which the room should be ceiled 
 over. The windows ought to be made as large as practicable, 
 and the louver boards put in no nearer together than is neces- 
 sary to exclude the rain. 
 
 The moxmtings should be examined occasionally to see that 
 the nuts are screwed up and that the spring is in proper order. 
 (See page 9.) The bearings should also be oiled occasionally, 
 care being taken not to let oil or grease drip and accumulate 
 upon the bell. 
 
 Directions for Kinging. 
 
 The Sexton, or Bell-ringer, in commencing to ring, should, 
 after allowing the clapper to strike six or eight times, ring the 
 hell up, that is, with the mouth upward and horizontal ; then 
 fasten the rope and desist a minute, or until the other bells (if 
 any) have done the same, then repeat the ringing as before, 
 alternating with the other bells of the city or village, if any. 
 After ringing the usual time in this way, let down the bell and 
 apply the extra hammer for tolling, or toll with the clapper, 
 which gives a better sound, though the hammer, requiring less 
 skiU in use, is commonly preferred for tolling. 
 
 As the tolling hammer has not, like the clapper, a spring to 
 throw it from the bell after the blow is struck, great care should 
 be taken to strike a hard, short blow, and let the hammer drop 
 from the side of the bell after the blow as quickly as possible, 
 as any continued contact with the bell produces a very unpleasant, 
 jan-ing sound. 
 
TKOY BELL FOlTNDEr. 27 
 
 Raising Bell in the Yolee. 
 
 Should the bell fail to ring with sufficient ease, block it up 
 underneath, loosen the screws of the bolts which connect the 
 yoke with the notched pivot-arms, and with a lever raise the 
 bell one or two notches, as the case may require, and again 
 fasten the bolts. In all cases the bell should be allowed to hang 
 as low in the yoke as sufficient ease in ringing will allow, as the 
 lower it hangs the heavier the blow given. 
 
 The yoke is properly adjusted, in this respect, before the beU 
 leaves the foundry, and it will seldom be found necessary to 
 make any variation. 
 
 Turning the Bell in the Yoke. 
 
 When it is desired to have the clapper strike in a different 
 place hosen the nut above the yoke, when the bell may be 
 readily turned with the hand, and again tighten the nut, very 
 tight, as the tone is much improved by the great firmness with 
 which the bell is held in this "Patent Rotary Yoke." See 
 page 9. 
 
 Warranty. 
 
 Each bell of 100 lbs., or over, is accompanied by the follow- 
 ing warranty attached to the bill of sale : 
 
 " The above mentioned bell, and its mountings, are warranted 
 not to hreak in one year from date, and tone warranted satis- 
 factory TO THE PUECHASEK. Should they fail or break during 
 the year, we agree to recast the bell or replace the broken 
 mountings without charge." 
 
 Signed, 
 
 JONES & COMPANY. 
 
 Dated, Teot, 
 
 Location. 
 
 Our Foundry being located by the Depot of the New York 
 Central, Hudson River, Eastern and Northern Railroads, at the 
 junction of the Northern and "Western Canals, and near the 
 
28 TEOT BELL FODNDEY. 
 
 Hudson Eiver, gives us an advantage in shipping not possessed 
 by any other establishment. 
 
 Directions for Shipping. 
 
 Parties ordering bells should state the route and mode of con- 
 veyance by which they v?ish them forvs^arded, as from our unri- 
 valed location shipment may be made in almost any direction, 
 either by land or water, by a variety of routes. 
 
 Mates of Transportation. 
 
 The rates of transportation are undergoing so many variations 
 from season to season, and during the same season, that any 
 general statement of them very soon loses all value and becomes 
 liable to mislead. 
 
 When desired, however, we ascertain and communicate, by 
 letter, the best route and means of conveyance to any given 
 point, rate of freight, and time occupied in transportation. And 
 it is our custom to make through contracts at the best rates 
 available, inclosing duplicate receipts or bills of lading to the 
 purchaser. 
 
 In all cases we pay freight to New York on Bells shipped in 
 that direction, and going to or beyond that city. 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDRY. 29 
 
 RECOMMENDATIONS 
 
 That have been received from every State in the Union and foreign 
 parts where our bells have been sent. "We present but a few. 
 
 ALFRED CARSON, Chief Engineer New York Fire Department, writes: In answer 
 to your inquiry as to my opinion of the Fire Alarm Bell recently oast by you for the 
 Marion Street Tower, I would say that I consider it at least equal to any bell cast for 
 this city, and do not think it can be excelled by one of equal weight elsewhere. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 10,000 lbs. ; key of C.J 
 
 J. B. HOSMER, Treasurer Pearl Street Congregational Society, Hartford, Conn., 
 writes : The bell you made for the Pearl Street Church was duly received, and was 
 raised to its place, in the tower, last week. It has been rung repeatedly on week days, 
 as well as on the Sabbath, so that our citizens have had an .abundant opportunity to 
 hear it and to compare it with the bells of our city. It is pronounced to be superior 
 in richness of tone and vibration, and in the casting and finish, to any of our church 
 bells, and is entirely satisfactory to the members of our Society. We shall take great 
 pleasure in recommending your house for the manufacture of Church Bells of a supe- 
 rior quality. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 2,Y09 ; key of D.] 
 
 HENRY COYLE, k. c. p., Waukegan, 111., writes : We are happy to inform you 
 of the safe arrival of the bell ordered at your establishment. It was immediately 
 raised to its place of destination, such was the anxiety elicited by our citizens, as well 
 as the members of our congregation, to hear its sweet and ponderous peals. All are 
 satisfied, and acknowledge its superiority, in tone and vibration, over all the bells in 
 this city. Many of our mechanics were attracted and astonished at the beauty of the 
 casting, and declared it to be the neatest and smootest bell they ever laid eyes upon. 
 In honor to your superior abilities, gentlemen, in the formation of bells for sweetness 
 of tone and loftiness of vibration, we cannot withhold our recommending your estab- 
 lishment to the public in general, who wish to secure superior bells. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 1,125 ; key of A.] 
 
 A. M. PERKINS, Becket, N. Y., writes : Yours was duly received. My delay has 
 been to hear of nearly all the members of our Society their opinion of the new bell. 
 When our bell broke, no one of them expected that its place would be made good by 
 any one we could get of a similar weight ; they are now very agreeably disappointed. 
 I know of no one who does not consider it fully equal to the old bell, while some think 
 it superior ; all are well satisfied. Your bell gives a great volume of sound near to 
 it, and we think can be beard as far ; its key is lower than the old one. For the many 
 favors received, and the gentlemanlike treatment shown from you to me, while in 
 Troy, please accept my best wishes for the welfare and success in the business you 
 both know so well. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 740 ; key of B.] 
 
 GEORGE H. JONES, Agent, Victory Company, Victory Mills, July 21st, 1853, 
 writes : It gives me great pleasure to say that, after a trial of a week, your bell 
 gives us great satisfaction ; it has a very fine, clear tone, and the prolonged vibration 
 is superior to any bell I ever noticed. 
 
 s superior to any 
 [Wt. of bell, 984 ; key of A.] 
 
 REV. HENRY COX, Hillsdale, writes : We received the bell (for our new Metho- 
 dist Episcopal Church) in good order, and I write to assure you that we arc fully pre- 
 pared to endorse your statement, " that a better bell, of the weight, never was cast." 
 In fact, we have a bell on our church in the village, the weight of which is over 1,100, 
 
30 TROT BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 and all declare that the bell on the new church is equal to it, and sonae believe it is 
 even superior. You may, indeed, congratulate yourselves ou the superiority of your 
 castings to any in the country. 
 [Wt. of bell, 744 ; key of B.] 
 
 'MK. J. 0. GAETWAITE, Newark, N. J., writes : Wo have fully tested the bell 
 on St. Paul's Chapel. It far exceeds our expectations for beauty of tone and capacity, 
 and is superior to the other three bells I obtained of Mr. Meneely. 
 
 MR. M. S. BAILEY, Bouckvillc, N. Y., writes : After visiting many other foun- 
 dries, and hearing bells that were widely advertised, I went to yours, and after hearing 
 the bells became satisfied that you relied on your bells to advertise you. 
 
 Although I ordered a much heavier bell (1,004 pounds) than I was authorized, yet 
 after hearing it our people would not let it return to Troy for twice its cost. Persons 
 residing seven or ten miles oif are telling us of having heard it distinctly at home. 
 You need not send any more advertisements, for the bell will advertise you through 
 this valley. 
 
 MR. J. OSGOOD, Morenci, Mich., writes : According to agreement, I drop a line 
 to let you know the bell came through safe and sound, and I think I can safely say 
 that we have got the beet bell in the county. . I think it fully equal to a sixteen 
 hundred bell in Adrian. People come in daily, from six to eight miles in the country, 
 saying that they heard it plainly at their homes ; I have no doubt but it is heard ten 
 or twelve miles. The people are well pleased with it. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 779 Ihs.] 
 
 REV. WM. WHITE BRONSON, Danbury, Conn., writes : The work of lowering 
 our broken bell (from the foundry of Mr. Meneely), and replacing it by the new and 
 sweet toned one from your establishment, was completed on Friday, and in accord- 
 ance with my promise I hasten to inform you of the impression it has made upon an 
 entire community. I have been again and again congratulated, by all denominations, 
 upon what they regard as a public blessing, viz. ; the possession of a fine toned bell — 
 superior to any which our village can boast. 
 
 When Mr. Jones assured me that it would compete with heavier bells of a different 
 make, I was not prepared (not having heard this) to be disappointed, as I have been, 
 in the volume of sound ; but the truth of his language has been verified — and this is 
 admitted on all hands. Few were aware of the arrival of the bell, and the first time 
 it was sounded, on its way up the spire, it attracted a general notice. All are im- 
 pressed with the superior richness and beauty of tone — the clearness and length of 
 the vibrations. Persons living in the immediate neighborhood of the church, and 
 who, under ordinary circumstances object to the ringing of bells, have said that they 
 cared not how often, or how long this was rung. Its qualities have been tested by 
 superior judges in the musical profession, and all are satisfied — and this is not said in 
 a spirit of flattery. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 960 ; key of A.] 
 
 TRUSTEES OF M. E. CHURCH, Pittsfield, write : The bell which we purchased 
 of you, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, we raised to its destined position as soon 
 as it arrived. We were pleased with the smoothness of the casting, but more espe- 
 cially with the volume of sound, the prolongation of vibation, and the sweetness of 
 tone. In all these respects we think it will compare favorably with the heavier and 
 more expensive bells of our village. Levi Childs, ) 
 
 John M. Holland, )■ Trustees. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 1,995 ; key, E flat.] Daniel C. Moret, ) 
 
 P. H. WAGNER, ESQ., President of Board of Trustees of Fort Plain Seminary and 
 Female Collegiate Institute, writes : Your bell is elegantly performing its functions 
 in our cupola. We have in our churches two bells that exceed yours in weight by 
 300 to 400 pounds, but, yours is decidedly the best in fullness of tone and vibration ; 
 and I am informed it can be heard as distinctly at as great a distance. This bell 
 bears, and will continue to bear, a flattering testimonial in the Mohawk Valley to your 
 enterprise and skill. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 763 ; key of B.] 
 
TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 31 
 
 MR. EDWARD C. WOLCOTT, Sandisfield, writes : After a trial of nearly one 
 year of that bell I purchased of you, I must say it has given good satisfaction to 
 every one of the Society. I don't think there can be a better toned bell cast than 
 ours. It is rung twice every day — at noon and 9 o'clock at night. 
 
 REV. H. W. DUCACHET, Philadelphia, Pa., writes : You would be pleased to 
 hear the delight which all the citizens express when the bells are chimed ; and they do 
 great credit to you as their founders. You are at liberty to use my name as reference 
 
 [Weight of bells— 2,838 lbs., key of D. ; 2,112 lbs., key of E.; 1,670 lbs., key of F. 
 Sharp ; 1,436, key of Q. ; 1,234, key of A. ; l,ull), key of B. ; 912, key of C. ; 863, 
 key of C. Sharp ; 820, key of D.] 
 
 This is the chime represented at page 17. In ordering a bell for another church, 
 August 14th, 1859, Dr. Ducaohet says of this chime, "the chime continues to give 
 the same high degree of satisfaction as at first, and you may continue to use my 
 name as a refei'ence." 
 
 REV. C. LA ROCQUE, St. Johns, C. E., writes : I am very happy that I can avail 
 myself of this opportunity to let you know that the Catholics of St. Johns have 
 enjoyed a truly merry Christmas. Our bells, which were put up last week in their 
 proper place, the belfry of our church, were rung, for the first time, on the evening 
 before last, to announce the great festival and solemnity of our Saviour's birthday. It 
 lies not in my power to describe to you the amazing effect they have produced on the 
 whole population of our village. For my part, when I bought them of you, I was 
 confident that they would afford to myself and congregation a full satisfaction, but in 
 so doing they succeeded far beyond my hope and expectation. Their perfect chord- 
 ing — their powerful and melodious tone — their beautiful matching of sound cannot be 
 surpassed, I dare say, by any bells of the same size and weight. It remains only for 
 me to wish that they may not hereafter prove deficient, or fail in any thing that might 
 injure their excellent qualities of a bell. Till new account of the bells, or of any thing 
 else, I have a real pleasure in wishing you success in your business. 
 
 [Wt. of bells, 1510, 1228, Key of F.] 
 
 REV. CHESTER L. FOTTE, Avon, Lorain Co., Ohio, writes : The bell gives 
 general satisfaction ; it compares very favorably with other bells in this part of the 
 country. To particularize as to finish, the gentleman that assisted us in hanging it, 
 who has done more or less of this business for some time, said that it had the best 
 finish of any bell he ever saw. The tone is frequently spoken of as being excellent. 
 An old gentleman, recently from England, speaking with me to day about the bell, 
 spoke in liigh terms of the tone. What has been said of the finish and tone, may be 
 said of the volume of sound. The price, also, is satisfactory. I shall take pleasure 
 in recommending persons wishing to get bells to purchase of you. 
 
 WEBSTER WILLIAMS, ESQ., Newark, Wayne Co., N. Y., writes: We received 
 our bell (for St. Mark's Church) and immediately hung it, and have been using it ever 
 since. It gives universal satisfaction, and is pronounced by all that it is the best toned 
 bell in this vicinity, although it is the lightest one. The persons living next the church 
 were afraid that a bell hung so near them would be an annoyance, but the tone is so 
 rich that they would not now have it removed, and we are now satisfied that we done 
 the best in leaving it entirely to your judgment. 
 
 MR. STILLMAN F. LEGG and others, East Candor, Tioga Co., N. Y., write: We 
 have received the bell for our new church in good order (with the exception of the 
 wheel being damaged a trifle, the flange being split off), and we are happy to inform 
 you that we are all well satisfied, and have to acknowledge that it far exceeds our 
 expectations in richness of tone and vibration. It is pronounced to be far superior 
 to any bell in this part of the State. The bell arrived on the Cth inst., and the next 
 day we raised it in the tower in good order. Please accept our best wishes for your 
 welfare and success in business, and thanking you for the favors you have granted us. 
 
 REV. G. GROSS, Richville, writes : I can say, without exaggeration, that the bell 
 which we purchased of you has obtained great celebrity in this vicinity as a good 
 ringer. I have been much pleased to hear the voluntary commendations given to it, 
 
32 TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 not by the multitude merely, but by those who are judges of the sounds of bells. — 
 One gentleman who is frequently in the city of New York, says that he never heard 
 a better sounding one there, not excepting those on Triuity Church. It is my opinion 
 that it is not surpassed by any bell in Northern New York, of its weight. 
 
 Much success to you, sirs, in your business, so long as you deal justly with all, and 
 may your bells thus honestly sound far and near through the nation, and bespeak 
 nothing in their chime but truth and righteousness, and I trust they will. 
 
 [Wt. of bell 615, key of C] 
 
 J. CARL, ESQ., Secretary Vigilant Fire Co., York, Pa., writes : It gives me pleasure 
 to inform you that our bell (purchased of you) was placed in its position last New 
 Year's day, and every way proves satisfactory to the members of our company, and I 
 can assure you it does its duty in raising an alarm when it gets going. There are bells 
 in town larger than this, but none have been heard farther out in the country. 
 
 REV. W. 0. MATTISON, Whitesville, Alleghany Co., N. Y., writes : The bell we 
 purchased at your foundry has now been hung and in use eight months. It is what 
 you recommended it to be, rich, clear tone. Having heard the Meneely bell at Wells- 
 ville, and the Meneely bell at Andover, in this county, one weighing 1095, the other 
 800, we would not exchange ore even tertns (our weighing 625.) 
 
 MOSES C. CLEVELAND, ESQ., Southold, N. J., writes : Gentlemen— The bearer 
 of this is my son, N. Hubbary Cleveland ; he being about to visit your city, I thought 
 it a good opportunity to drop you a line concerning the bell we purchased of you last 
 March. 1 am of the opinion that it cannot be beat of anything of its weight for sound 
 or vibration ; it is a beautiful clear tone, musical bell. I have just returned home 
 from a little tour in New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts ; I had the opportunity 
 of hearing a number of bells, and in some instances inquired the weight of the bell. 
 One in particular that the people seemed satisfied with, and thought it a good one, 
 weighed over 1100 lbs., certainly was no better than ours, if as good; it was at Ber- 
 gen, N. J. Accept my best regards, with my best wishes for success in your business. 
 
 MESSRS. WELLS & BEXBY, Wyalusing, Bradford Co., Pn., write: Yours of 
 the 6th inst., acknowledging receipt of dralt for balance of bell is at hand. The bell 
 which we purchased of you last November for the Presbyterian Church in this place, 
 continues to give the most perfect satisfaction, aud we think it cannot be beaten for a 
 1200 lb. bell. Shall be happy if our names, as reference, can be of any use to you. 
 
 SILAS M. HOLMES, Detroit, Mich., writes: The bell you cast for the Fort Street 
 Congregational Church, has been raised to its place in the tower, over 100 feet from 
 the sidewalk ; it has been used since the dedication of the church, which was on the 
 21st of September. Its powers have been tested, and as far as we can now learn, 
 gives full satisfaction to the fair donors of our society, who were instrumental in 
 raising the means for its purchase, as well as to the community who hear its chiming 
 peals. Its tone is soft, clear and melodious, and can be distinctly heard at a distance. 
 It is pronounced, by those not connected with our society, to be the best bell now in 
 our city. Hoping that you will be as successful in all your future castings, I remain, 
 respectfully, yours, &c. 
 
 In behalf of the Building Committee of the 1st Congregational Society, Detroit. 
 
 REV. H. M. THOMPSON, Portage, Wis., writes: I hasten to acknowledge the 
 receipt of your beautiful bell, a most excellent one, giving good satisfaction, and being 
 put ahead of the Meneely bell here, which is two hundred pounds heavier, by cdl good 
 judges. The tone is the subject of all men's praises. 
 
 MR. R. C. CASEY, Sandy Hill, writes : The bell we purchased of yo.u has been in 
 use some eight months, and its tone is admired by all our citizens. It gives universal 
 satisfaction, and we can with confidence recommend your bells to any churches who 
 may be in want. Hoping you success in your business, &c. 
 
 GEORGE H. JONES, Chief Engineer, Newark, N. J., writes : The fire-alarm bell 
 purchased of you for the city of Newark, has proved to be a superior bell, and gives 
 universal satisfaction, being distinguished readily from all other bells in the city by its 
 tone and power, and I consider it an indispensable appendage to our fire department. 
 
 [Wt. of bell, 1035 ; key of G. 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDEY. 33 
 
 MR. THOMAS H. EVISTON, Milwaukee, writes : We are in receipt of your bell 
 on the 29th uUimo. We hung it the same dav, and have great pleasure in Ptating 
 that It has given great satisfaction to the Company amd oommmaty at large and 
 especially onr Chief Engineer and Uomptrolhr. It is one of the best fire-alarm bells 
 belonging to any company in onr city, and gives the best report. I had the pleasure 
 myself of ringing it the first time, and many spectators were waiting for the first alarm 
 of the new bell, all of whom felt highly pleased at the tone of the new bell. 
 
 Ret. EUGENE AUG'S HOFFMAN, Christ Church Rectorv, Elizahethtown, N. J., 
 writes : The bell which you sent to St. Stephen's Church, Jiilburn, has now been in 
 use for nearly a year. It weighs but 1,308 lbs., and yet, being keyed on F, has the 
 sound of a much larger bell. Its tone has given great satisfaction, being quite the 
 pridpof the village, and it rings so easily that a boy can manage it. Having had 
 oceasiou, at different times to examine a number of bells, I take pleasure in giving 
 my testimony to the perfection of the casting and finish. 
 
 S. C. PRICHARD, P. M., Liverpool, Ohio, writes: The bell sent by you to 
 Tillatsou & Richmond of this place, is now hung, and gives good satisfaction. They 
 have a bell at York, eight miles from hero, wt. VU.O lbs., made by your neighbors at 
 West Troy ; we would not exchange even with them, ours weighing 778 lbs. Wt, 442 
 lbs. in favor of your bell. We want another of 500 lbs., if you can send us one 
 equally as good in proportion to the one sent to T. & B. 
 
 Mr. S. S. HARMON, Sonora, California, writes ; Enclosed is a draft drawn on 
 Christopher K. Robert, Treasurer of the A. H. M. Society, which will be paid on 
 sight. 
 
 The bell, it is but just to you to say, is indeed a superior one. It realizes all t'le 
 good things you said of it, and more too. Everybody in town is delighted with it, 
 and it wakes the echoes of these mountains for four and five miles around. It is ihe 
 largest and best toned bell in all the mines of California. Please acknowledge 
 receipt. 
 
 JACOB HECKUT and SIMON WEST, Millersburg, Pa. write : Enclosed you will 
 find a draft in your favor from the Harrisburgh. Bank on the Am. Exchange Bank, 
 New York. 
 
 We received the bell ; it was brought to our place before we expected it, and we 
 charged you with freight only to Harrisburgh. We think our bell is a very good one ; 
 every one is pleased with the sound of it, and it is pronounced far superior to the 
 Meneely bell in our place. 
 
 MR. CHESTER gANDEESON, Ashfield, Mass., writes: The bell I purchased of 
 you last March, and gave to the Second Congregational Society in Ashfield, Franklin 
 county, Mass., exceeds our expectations and every thing of the kind in this vicinity. 
 It has frequently been asserted by disinterested individuals, that its melody and sweet- 
 ness of tone is superior to any bell they ever heard, and that its equal cannot be pro- 
 duced in the county of Franklin. 
 
 REV. GEORGE F. MAGOUN, Davenport, Iowa, writes : The bell cast by you for 
 the Davenport Congregational Church, has given complete satisfaction. It has now 
 been iu use a little more than two months, and though only raised upon a temporary 
 tower of wood in the rear of our present place of worship, answers the purpose admi- 
 rably. The tone is rich, deep and mellow, and is spoken of in terms of unqualified 
 praise, not only by our own people, who may be supposed to be partial to the '" Sab- 
 bath going bell," whose call they follow — but by citizens and strangers. When it is 
 permanently placed/ in a more suitable and better located tower, its excellent qualities 
 will be brought out still better. We are more than satisfied with it ; there is but one 
 voice of gratification and pleasure. 
 
 [Wt. 2192 lbs., key E flat.] 
 
 MR. E. PERKINS, Fond Du Lac, Wis., writes : It gives me pleasure to say, that 
 
 the Trustees of the Baptist Church are highly pleased with the bell you sent in August 
 
 last, and are recommending your bells to other churches; and the community have 
 
 complimented my taste iu selecting bells. Many persons who lived near the church, 
 
 5 
 
34 TEOT BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 had objections fo bavinfj a bell so near them, but since it is hung, the tone is so sweet 
 and mellow, that these olijections are all removed, and they have contributedliberally 
 towards piiying for it. I think the Presbyterian Church will want one in the spring ; 
 they will want one weighing about 1500 lbs. 
 
 REV. JOHN C. SMITH, "Washington City, D. C, writes: It affords me much 
 pleasure to say, that ihe bell recently purchased from Messrs. Jones & Company, of 
 Troy, and placed in the belfry of the Fourth Presbyterian Church, is of very superior 
 tone and finish, and universally admired as the sweet sounds are borne over our city. 
 The bell is the proof that they are workmen that need not be ashamed. I will be 
 gratified to learu that bells from the same foundry are heard all over our land. 
 
 P. J. BALTES, R. C. P., Belleville, HI., writes : I am happy to inform yoii that 
 the bells which you sent for our church have given general satisfaction. Their work- 
 manship was examined by mechanics from .St. Louis and Belleville, and pronounced 
 superior to any thing of the kind which has appeared in this part of the country. 
 Their vibrations are lasting ; their tone solemn and pathetic, and together with the 
 smaller bell which we already possessed, they make a very attractive chime. I think 
 you will shortly have occasion to send some pretty large bells to St. Louis. I have 
 the honor of being, gentlemen, your very humble and ob't servant. 
 
 REV. R. LANGLEY, Sparta, Wisconsin, writes: We have received the bell 
 purchased of you for the il. E. Church in Sparta, and take pleasure in saying that the 
 entire community are delighted with its clear, rich tone, and though weighing but 
 93S lbs. it is distinctly heard for five or six miles, and I would take pleasure in 
 recommending your bells as of superior cast. 
 
 Rev. ROB'T. S. HARRIS, Eeyport, N. J., writes: As regards the excellent bell 
 we bought of you last fall, weighing 1240 lbs., key of G., would say : the more we 
 use it the better we like it. It has a sweet, musicul sound, and powerful vibration. 
 The Baptist clergyman of our village, (Rev. Mr. Slater, formerly of Rome, N. Y.,) 
 remarked not long since to me, that our bell surpassed all of its size and heft he had 
 ever heard. Our people are highly delighted with the bell, and would not part with it 
 upon any consideration. 
 
 Mr. JACOB G. LAMBERT, Rhinebeck, N. Y., writes : We received our bell on the 
 21st, and hung it the next day. in good order, and I write to assure you that we are 
 fully prepared to endorse your statement, that it is A, No. 1. All are satisfied with 
 its sweetness of tone and loftiness of vibration. We shall take pleasure in recom- 
 mending your house for the manufacture of church bells of a superior quality. 
 
 MESSRS. SPAUNHORST & CO., St. Louis, Mo., write Enclosed we hand you 
 draft, &c., $314. IS, as directed by our Rev. Jas. Patschowski. We have the bells up 
 in the tovrer, and are permitted to say they give universal satisfaction so far, and will 
 do credit to your establishment, and no doubt you will find some benefit, ere long, in 
 the demand for bells, from your foundry, in this city. 
 
 MR. J. W. WILLETT, Yarmouth Port, writes: That bell was received in due 
 time, and at once put in its place. It is, in all respects, perfectly satisfactory. If it 
 fulfills what it now promi.ses, we shall deem ourselves fortunate in that we have dealt 
 with you. Should I again have occasion to purchase a bell, I shall certainly apply to 
 you. 
 
 ELISHA GREENE, ESQ., Pcllii, Iowa, writes to our Agents: Messrs. Tillinghast, 
 Lane & Duel, Agents Troy Bell Foundry. — Dear Sirs — The bell purchased of you, and 
 cast at the Troy Bell Foundry, was hung in the cupola of our tfniversity Edifice, and 
 has ever .since been in daily and almost houriy use, and it has given the most perfect 
 mthfaction in every respect. It is regarded by all who have heard it, as the finest 
 toned bell in this part of the State. Its hangings are so perfect that, although its 
 weight is about 1000 pounds, a child can ring it with perfect ea.se. Please say to all 
 who are in want of bells that we regard those of Jones & Company as altogether 
 unrivalled. 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 35 
 
 MR. WILLIAM PACKAHD, Cuinmington, Mass., writes: The bell purchased of 
 you, after two or three weeks' trial, gives very good satisfaction, and the Society are 
 all greatly pleased with its rich, beautiful, sweet aud musical tone, and its prolonged 
 vibration. We send balance, &c. 
 
 MR. GEO. NICnOLS, Northfield Vt., writes : The bell was hung on Saturdav after 
 I was in your place, and now its clear, silvery tones may be heard for miles around. 
 It gives good satisfaction to our people, and is heard further, and lilted quite as well 
 as the other bell (from Hooper's Foundry, Boston), which weighs 200 lbs. more. 
 
 _ MR. L. F. HITCHCOCK, Kendallville, Ind., writes : The bell is received, and 
 gives universal satisfaction. 
 
 MR. FRED. A. ROSS, Huntsville, Alabama, writes: Through the liberality of a 
 man of wealth, this Church has had presented to it, one of your splendid bells, 2100 
 lbs. Its tone is very fine, key E. I drop this line, to express iny entire gratification 
 with this noble work of your science in bell making. 
 
 REV". R. S. HARRIS, Bridgeton, N, Jersey, writes; The bell I bought of you 
 when stationed at Keyport, increased in popularity with the people. A gentleman 
 from Philadelphia, on a visit to Keyport, says, it is one of the sweetest toned bells he 
 ever heard. 
 
 MR. ELIJAH SMITH, Northfield, writes : The bell I purchased of you for the 
 M. E. Church in this place, has been in use some six month.i, and its rich tone and 
 vibration arc admired by all our citizens. It gives universal satisfaction. I think it , 
 one of the best toned bells of its size I have ever seen. 
 
 REV. C. L A ROCQDE, St. John's, Canada East, writes : I have paid the amount due 
 you for the bell, to Mr. Evans, your Agent at Montreal. I had in my mind to address 
 you a few lines, to give yOu an account of the bell, which in this very moment I hear 
 ringing, and which gives both to myself and my congregation a full satinfaction. 
 Your letter affords me a, very favorable occa.sion so to do, and for this reason was 
 very welcome, as it was to me, something like an order not to delay any more to 
 accompligh ray intention. 
 
 RT. REV. FREDERIC BARAGA, Bishop of Saut Ste. Marie, Mich., writes:— 
 Messrs. Jones & Co., Bell Founders, Troy, X. Y. — Sirs : The beautiful bell we 
 purchased at your establishment last Summer, gives us great satisfaction. When we 
 first heard it, we were quite surprised at the richness aud sweetness of its tone, and 
 its length of vibration. We think it is as good, if not better, than any bell of its 
 size in the country. 
 
 MESSRS. C. G. BRODT & HUGH THOMPSON, Knoxville, Iowa, write to Messrs. 
 Tillinghast, Lane & Buel, Keokuk, Iowa, Agents Troy Bell Foundry — Gentlemen; — 
 We take much pleasure in recommending the bell purchased for the M. E. Church 
 of our town. It has given perfect satisfaction, and we can heartily endorse every- 
 thing which has been said in approval and praise of the bells manufactured by the 
 Troy Bell Foundry. 
 
 REV. T. V. PAPINEAU, St. Barthelemi, Canada E., writes : I beg you to accept 
 my excuses for not having answered sooner your letter of the 15th of January, re- 
 ceived during my absence, insurmountable difficulties have prevented us from sending 
 you sooner, the price of the bells, but I am happy to say to you, that these difSculties 
 have siuce been entirely removed, and by the 12th or 15th, we shall pay you in full. 
 Have the goodness to be patient till that time. As to the bells that yoj have sent us, 
 they are the finest that I have yet seen, and their harmonious concord could not be 
 excelled in sweetness. They give complete satisfactiou to all my parishouers, and the 
 strangers who hear them. Tneir sound can be heard nine miles distant, and at a very 
 favorable time, twelve miles distant. Your reputation hereabouts is established advan- 
 tageously and durably. 
 
36 TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 MESSRS. SOUTHWORTH & WALLEY, ■Williamstown, Mass., write: "We 
 received the bell and bill as arranged, and enclose draft for the amount. We have a 
 bell large enough and good enough. The cominunitv are loud in its praise. If we 
 had selected for ourselves, we should not have done as well. Call and see us when 
 you come out with our neighbors mammoth bell. 
 
 REV. L. K. SECRIST, Salona, Peun., writes : The bell furnished our new Church 
 at Salona, gives entire satisfaction, and receives the unqualified praise of all who 
 hear it. Another congregation of my charge want a bell of the same weight. Can 
 you furnish it soon, and at what price ? Please answer soon. 
 
 RUFUS HUBBARD, Esq., Supt. Public Schools, Keokuk, Iowa, writes : The bell 
 purchased at your foundry through Messrs. Tillinghast, Lane & Buel, your Agents, 
 and hung in the tower of the Public School House of our city, now in u-iseover a year, 
 is admired by all of our citizens. It gives universal satisfaction. Its tone is soft, 
 clear and melodious, and can be heard at a great di.itance. It is my opinion that it 
 is not surpassed by any bell in this section of the country. 
 
 MESSRS. WESTCOTT & PRAY, East Killingly, Conn., write : The bell is received, 
 and now in the tower of the mill. You will please find check for the amount 
 enclosed, and we will call on you again when we want in your line. We have much 
 the nicest bell on our stream of 1000 looms. Its tone is admired by every one, and 
 we cheerfully say it is the clearest, most sonorous bell in town, and are very much 
 pleased with it. 
 
 MR. E. HARRIS, Providence, R. I., writes : The bell reached its destination last 
 evening, and its introduction gives a very favorable impression on its visitors. Its 
 shell appears to be full of music, and seems in haste to mingle its voice in the passing 
 elements. 
 
 RT. REV. FREDERIC BARAGA, Bishop of Saut Stc., Mich., writes from Cliff 
 Mine : The bell for the Rev. Mr. Thiele, Eagle Harbor, Lake Superior, was received 
 some three weeks ago. It gives again full satisfaction. They hear it plainly five or 
 six miles, although it is small. My bell of 610 lbs., at Saut Ste. Marie, is very much 
 praised. They can hear it distinctly to Garden River, which is about twelve miles 
 from the Saut. 
 
 We want now, another one of about 2B0 pounds, together with the hangings. Di- 
 rect to the same Rev. Gentleman at Eagle Harbor. 
 
 MESSRS. E. T. WALDRON & JOSIAH ROSS, Bell Committee, Danvers Port, 
 writes :--The bell you cast for us, has been raised to its place on the tower of the 
 First Baptist Church, and we can truly say that it is a great improvement on the old 
 one. Its powers have been tested, and as far as we can learn it gives entire 
 satisfaction to all who were instrumental in raising the means for its purchase 
 as well as the entire community. We think it the finest toned bell we have 
 ever heard, and can cheerlully recommend the bells of your manufacture to any 
 church that may be in want. Please accept our good wishes for your success in your 
 business. 
 
 MR. IRA BEARD, Pittsfield, Vt., writes : Our bell has arrived, and was yesterday 
 raised to its place on the Church, since which, its sweet, mellow tones, have been 
 almost constantly vibrating among our hills. We think your statement to be correct, 
 that this is a superior bell. Every one is speaking in its praise. Even those who 
 could not be persuaded to take any interest in its purchase, are loud in their 
 commendation of the bell. We shall ever esteem it a pleasure to recommend your 
 bells to others. 
 
 H. HILL, Esq., Treasurer Oberlin College, writes: The bell has arrived, and is 
 now in its place, and I believe every one is satisfied with its tone, and with everything 
 about it. 
 
 Mr. L. H. SOVEREIGN, Bristol, Indiana, writes : The bell is a good one, and gives 
 good satisfaction. Though so small a bell, (212 lbs.) I have heard it distinctly three 
 miles. 
 
TEOT BELL FOUNDRY. 37 
 
 Mr. C. M. WOODWARD, Agent Aurora Institute and Clark Seminary, Kane Co., 
 111., writes : Our bell renched us in good order, except a break in the wheel. It is 
 now in its place, and we are very much pleased with it indeed. Ii.a tone is beautiful, 
 and vibrations long, clear and distinct. It will be a real favorite in our young and 
 flourishing city, and whoever will take the trouble or do himself the pleasure to listen 
 to the sweet tones of our Seminary bell, will have little occasion to go elsewhere to 
 purchase. 
 
 Z. PHILLIPS, Agent Troy University, Troy, N. Y., writer : I have great pleasure 
 in assuring you that the hell of 1,200 lbs. weight, furnished by you to this Institution. 
 and now sufficiently tested, is regarded by all as one of rare and unusual excellence, 
 It is deep toned, full and sonorous, with powerful and long continued vibration, and 
 great volume of sound, excelling in mu.-sical richness and beauty of tone. It is of the 
 most perfect workmanship and finish, and in all the qualities of a good bell, cannot, 
 I believe, be surpassed. 
 
 REV. W. W. SNELL, Rushford, Minn., writes ; The bell came safely to hand, and 
 was rung on the 1st. We are all much pleased with it. Its tone is very pleasant and 
 clear. It has been heard eight miles. 
 
 REV. M. A. M. WIRZFELD, Pastor of St. Patrick's Church, Elizabethport, writes : 
 Our bell was put in the spire last week, and I am happy to say that it is admireu both 
 by Catholics and Protestants. I shall do all in my power to recommend your estab- 
 lishment. 
 
 MR. C. W. CHURCHILL, Le Roy, Pa., writes : The bell is in its place, and we re- 
 alize all that we anticipated in its qualities. There is but one expression, and that is, 
 all are entirely satisfied. The bell will recommend itself. 
 
 REV. SERGE DE STCIIOULEPXIKOFF, Pastor of St. Mary's, Dansville, N. T., 
 writes : The bell you sent us by boat arrived here safely last Wednesday night, and 
 is already in its place. It is a splendid one, and was heard yesterday at a distance of 
 eight miles. Everybody in town admires its material and sound, and I feel most happy 
 that it was my good luck to order our bell from your establishment. 
 
 MR. JOHN E. RIDER, of Portsmouth, N. H., writes : The bell gives great satis- 
 faction. Its great power, and beautiful tone, prove you to be masters of your business. 
 
 MESSRS. W. GURLEY & CLARK, Bell Committee of the North Bapti.st Church, 
 Troy, N. Y., writes: The church bell purchased from you for the North Baptist 
 Church, has been in use for several weeks, and we take pleasure in saying that the 
 favorable estimate of its qualities entertained by the committee at the time of its pur- 
 chase, is fully justified by the general satisfaction felt with it by the congregation. In 
 a city possessing so many fine toned bells as ours, the public ear is educated, and a 
 new bell is so closely criticised, that a verdict so favorable is peculiarly gratifying to us, 
 and we have no doubt must be equally agreeable to you. 
 
 REV. WALTER CHAMBERLIN, Perth Amboy, N. J., writes : You will undoubt- 
 edly remember my visit to your place to purchase a bell for Frenchtown, which gave 
 the very best of satisfaction, and resulted in your selling another one to the Baptist 
 Church. We are trying to build a church in Perth Amboy, and undoubtedly will want 
 a bell. Please send us your circular. 
 
 REV. JAMES LYNCH, Pastor St. John's Catholic Church, Middletown, Ct., writes : 
 It gives me pleasure to hear testimony to the excellent qualities of the bell you have 
 erected for us. It realizes all our expectations. Its tone is pleasing, and as powerful 
 as could be expected from any bell of its weight. Wishing you all the success which 
 your skill as bell founders and your honorable business principles merit, I am very 
 respectfully yours. 
 
 MR. D. B. JUDSON, Kingsboro', N. Y., writes : The bell gives general satisfaction. 
 
38 TROT BELL FOUNDET. 
 
 REV. PIERRE BEAUDOIN^ Pastor Notre Dame CatUolic Church, Bourbonnois 
 Grove, 111., writes: It is with the greatest pleasure I send you the price of a bell that 
 gives us so much satisfaction. It possesses a sweet, tenorious tone, and Is heard a long 
 distance. I am much obliged to you for the transactions which you have with me. 
 
 REV. SAMUEL DURBOROW, Pastor Church of the Evangelists, Philadelphia, Pa., 
 writes : It seems right and pi'oper to say to you that the bell which you furnished 
 for the Church of the Evangelists was put iu its place in the tower last week. On 
 Easter Sunday morning at smi-rise it rung out its sweet tones, very much to the grati- 
 fication of good church people, but rather annoying to the slumberers in Zion. ,We 
 are all very much pleased with the bell. It seems to give universal satisfaction. I 
 thank you personally for the interest you took in getting us so good an instrument, 
 and also for your promptness iu filling the orders 
 
 REV". SAMUEL ADSIT, Palmyra, N. Y., writes : The bell is all that could be de- 
 sired. A perfect charm. The more I hear it, the more I admire its rich, solemn calls 
 to devotion, and a higher Christian life. I think its deep, far-reaching tones will 
 speak loudly in its praise in this region. 
 
 MR. H. H. HEMENNAY, Treasurer St. Luke's Church, Lansing, Iowa, writes: We 
 arc much pleased with the bell. It is a fine tone, and will be entirely satisfactory. It 
 is certainly the best bell in Northern Iowa. 
 
 MR. F. R. GILBERT, Millersburgh, Pa., writes : Vfe received the bell and have 
 put it in the steeple, and every person is pleased with the tone, and they all with one 
 accord say they never heard a finer toned bell any where. There is quite a contrast 
 between this and our Amalgam bell of 1000 lbs. which we had, and the people are all 
 satisfied the Amalgam bells are a humbug. They offered us a big price to take anolher 
 Amalgam bell, but our people, with one accord, cried " Away with them, we have had 
 enough." 
 
 MR. J. HURD, Charles City, Iowa, writes : The bell is received. It is a splendid 
 hell, and I feel sure will give entire satisfaction to all. 
 
 REV. E. H. BUHR, Napierville, 111., writes i The bell has been rung for two Sun- 
 days, and gives general satisfaction. . Members of my church have told me they heard 
 it at eight (8) miles distance. 
 
 REV. W. H. E. BULLOCK, Bridgewater, writes; The bell has given great satis- 
 faction. Its tone is all we could wish for. Its clear, piercing tone is just suited for 
 the situation of the church, surrounded as it is by woods. Your establishment shall 
 always be recommended by me. 
 
 DR. C. T. HARRIS, Delavan, Wis., writes: The bell gives universal satisfaction ; 
 for smoothness and beauty of tone it is admitted to surpass any bell with which we 
 are acquainted in the State. In short, we are thus far well suited. 
 
 REV DR. DUOACHET, Rector Sc. Stephen's Church, Philadelphia, Pa., writes: 
 No bell can be better than the grand chime of nine which you made for St. Ste- 
 phen's Church, and which we have had in our tower more than eight years with 
 undiminished satisfaction. I have heard many English and Spanish bells, but rjonc 
 surpass yours. We have three chimes in this city, two of them English, and the one 
 cast by you ; the former do not compare with ours. Besides the chime of nine at our 
 church, you have furnished three other bells on my order, every one of them per- 
 fectly satisfactory. The larger bell lately sent by you for our asylum is superb. It is 
 music to all the country around it. I shall certainly never send to England for a bell 
 when I can get one from your firm. 
 
 MR. HENRY FOWLER AND COMMITTEE, Danversport, Mass., writes: The bell 
 you recast for us gives universal satisfaction. Its tone is clear and musical, and by 
 many is preferred to that of the old bell. Citizens living in other parts of the town, 
 and accustomed to hear other bells, do not hesitate to say that Jones & Co. have fur- 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDRY. 39 
 
 nished the best chui-uh bells in this vicinity. The committee acknowledge the prompt- 
 ness of your firm in this as well as your former business transactions with them. 
 
 MR. CHAS. LANGDON, Castleton, Vt., writes: It gives me p;reat pleasure to ac- 
 knowledge your eourteousness and- fidelity in executing our order. The bell gives 
 universal satisfaction. It has been heard a distance of seven miles in quite unfavora- 
 ble weather, how much farther I cannot say. But wherever it is heard it will speak 
 volumes in your praise through its sweet and cheerful tones. 
 
 MR. D. W. STICKWELL, Aurora, 111., writes : Your bell has come to hand, and 
 hangs to-day in the belfry. I think it a very fine bell, and it will give entire satisfac- 
 tion to every one. 
 
 REV. S. ORCUTT, Patchogue, Long Island, N. Y., writes : Our bell is admired by 
 all, and gives great satisfaction in tone and the distance it is heard. I shall ever favor 
 your foundry. 
 
 REV. JAS. HULRIS, Milford, 0. W., writes : Onr bell arrived in good order. We 
 like it very much. It has been heard six miles, and is what we call a good bell. 
 
 REV. THOS. W. FYLES, Brome Woods, E. T. Canada, writes: The bell reached 
 me in safety, and gives satisfaction. I am much obliged for your punctuality. 
 
 MR. J. E. RIDER, Portsmouth, N. H., writes (concerning a fire alarm bell for the 
 city of Portsmouth'): I have delayed writing to you in regard to the bell, for the 
 reason I wished to have a general expres.sion on the part of our citizens in regard to 
 the tone of the bell. It has been rung now for some time, and I have never heard the 
 first word of fault found with it. When it arrived the easting was pronounced very 
 superior by our founders, and after it was in the tower, our citizens were greatly sur- 
 prised to hear its great volume of power, and the vibration was splendid. Its tone was 
 rich and clear, and taking into consideration the prejudice in favor of Hooper's bells, 
 of which we have a number in this city, I can only say it has achieved a great victory. 
 No one seems tired of hearing it. I have heard many bells in different parts of 
 Europe and this country, and I can assure you that I consider the tone of the bell we 
 had of you fully equal to any of the old English bells, some of which are considered 
 by travelers as gems of the old founders. If any one wishes to purchase a bell I 
 shall certainly advise them to go to Jones & Co., and if any more of our bells should 
 break you need have no fears of the purchasers going any where else. 
 
 MR. GEO. R. AMES, Mendota, 111., writes: The bell came to us in good order, and 
 is now hanging in the tower of the church. Standing in the midst of the great prairies 
 of IlUnois, its sweet, full sounds vibrate through die distance to the satisfaction of all, 
 and to the credit of Messrs. Jones & Co., Troy, N. Y. 
 
 J. C. DEITZ, ESQ., Anamosa, Iowa, writes : I think the bell will give entire sat- 
 isfaction. 
 
 S. S. CADY, ESQ., Jamestown, N. Y., writes : I have something to say to express 
 the perfect satisfaction the bell gives to all, Not a word except in its praise has been 
 heard. Its tone is perfectly pleasing to every ear. 
 
 REV. E. N. BARTLETT, Oberlin, 0., writes : I have the pleasure of informing you 
 that the bell furnished by you for the Congregational Church at Four Corners, Huron 
 Co. Ohio, has been received and placed in the church tower, and its musical tones 
 give very general satisfaction. 
 
 MR RICHARDSON, Roxbury, Vt., writes : The bell you sent us arrived all 
 right, and is now in its place, and I am happy to say it gives perfect satisfaction. 
 Every one speaks in its praise. 
 
 REV H C. HUMPHREY, Purdy's Station, N. Y., writes: The tone gives the 
 highest'satisfaction. I have not heard of a dissent from the universal praise accorded 
 to it. 
 
40 TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 WM. S. GRAY, ESQ., Windsor, N. C, writes: The bell arrived safely, and bas 
 been put into the steeple, and gives general satisfaction to all the members of our 
 church. I think it will provS the best in town every way. Thanking you in the 
 name of the church for the great promptness with which it was cast, I remain, <fec. 
 
 ME. S. P. HALLECK, Oriskany, N. T., writes : The bell I think cannot be beat. 
 
 REV. JAMES T. WILSON, Miffinsburgh, Pa., writes : The bell came to hand all 
 right, and was hung on Wednesday, and renders universal satisfaction. It is a great 
 source of pleasure to the congregation, and reflects great credit upon your establish- 
 ment. We think we have the best bell in the town. We are under many obligations 
 to you, &c. 
 
 REV. L. MALON, Elyria, Ohio, writes : The bell has arrived safe. It gives satis- 
 faction. 
 
 JNO. M. BONHAM, ESQ., Franklin, Pa., writes : With the bell on our church, 
 now hung and fully tested, we are all as well pleased as can be. Its tone is pure, 
 distinct and smooth. It far surpasses aiiij bell in this coriirmmity. We do not doubt 
 it will be the means of bringing you several new orders from other churches now 
 being erected here, and perhaps from the country. 
 
 GEORGE S. BOND, ESQ., Charlestown, N. H., writes: The bell arrived safe and 
 sound, and I think it will please us very much. 
 
 MR. J. C. HOWARD, Union Center, N. Y., writes : The bell we ordered is received. 
 We raised it into the tower yesterday. I believe the people are well pleased with it. 
 
 REV. A. C. MOREHOUSE, Windham Center, N. Y., writes: One of your bells on 
 my former charge is, I think, one of the best 1 have ever heard for the price and 
 weight. 
 
 REV. A. LCEHNER, Blairstown, Iowa, writes: I got a bell of your firm some 
 years ago, it is the best bell for its weight I ever saw. 
 
 . REV. G.J. DUBOIS, Big Flatts, N. Y., writes: Gentlemen, permit me to con- 
 gratulate you on your success as Bell Makers, and on your promptness and dispatch as 
 business men. Your fine bell and mountings reached here in safety on Wednesday. 
 Our people are perfectly delighted with the bell, and all who have heard it pronounce 
 it the finest toned of any they ever heard. 
 
 REV. U. ARCHAMBAULT, St. Barthelemfi, C. E., to our Agent in Montreal, J. H. 
 Evans, Esq., writes : The Chime of Bells furnished by you for my church, and made 
 by Messrs. Jones & Co., Proprietors of the Troy Bel! Foundry, are without exception 
 the finest toned bells I ever heard. The respective weights are 1991 lbs., 1191 lbs., 
 750 lbs., and are in perfect musical accord, aud the bells as a whole, reflect great 
 credit on Messrs. Jones & Co. 
 
 REV. H. S. CARD, North Hector, N. Y., writes : The bell you sent us is received 
 in good order, it is now in its place, and the people are much pleased with it. 
 
 GEORGE A. GUERNSAY, ESQ., Susquehanna Depot, N. Y., writes: We have 
 the bell hung, and are much pleased with it. The tone, &c., is quite satisfactory. 
 
 REV. J. J. LEWIS, Syracuse, N. Y., writes : The bell gives very good satisfaction, 
 and has been highly commended. 
 
 J. W. MOORE and CHAS. R. PULTZ, Bell Committee, Rhinebeck, N. Y., write: 
 The bell you cast for us has been raised to its place on the tower of the Third Evan- 
 gelist Lutheran Church in this place, its powers have been tested, and as far as we 
 learn it gives entire satisfaction to all the community about Rhinebeck. Please 
 accept our good wishes for your success in your business, &c. 
 
 MR. WM. A. ELDEN, Bendersville, Adams Co., Pa., writes : The bell you sent us 
 is an excellent one, beautiful in tone, it has been heard a distance of five miles along 
 the mountain, and will reflect credit on you as manufacturers. Yours, with many 
 greetings, &c. 
 
TEOr BELL FOUNDRY. 41 
 
 C. P. WILLIAMS, ESQ., Shelbnrn, Vt., writes : The bell was raised to belfry 
 Monday. I call it a good bell, and the majority like it, and are satisfied with it. 
 Hoping you will never make a worse bell than ours, I remain, &o. 
 
 MR. N. L. BARKER, Edinburgh, N. Y., writes : The bell so far gives universal 
 satisfaction. 
 
 REV. H. EIEVERS, Muskegon, Mich., writes: Some few rears ago I bought a 
 bell of your firm when I was at Grattari, Mich., and it satisfied all who had seen and 
 heard bells. I want another for this place, &c. 
 
 C. H. HARDING, ESQ., Bradford, Tt., writes: The bell has been received, and is 
 being hung. So far as workmanship is concerned it gives the highest satisfaction. 
 
 REV. L. MALON, Elyria, 0., writes : Our bell gives general satisfaction. It is the 
 best sounding bell in town. 
 
 JOHN WALSH, ESQ., Rouses' Point, N. Y., writes : We have received our bell. 
 It seems to give general satisfaction, and I am glad of it, &c. 
 
 A. M. DICKEY, Esq., Bradford, Vt., writes: Please accept ray thanks for your 
 promptness in filling my order for bell. I am happy to inform you that the society 
 are perfectly satisfied with its tone and mechanism. 
 
 JOHN C. THOMPSON, ESQ., Redfield, N. Y., writes : We have now fully tested 
 the bell which you furnished us, and must say it is the best bell we ever heard for its 
 weight, and for beauty of casting surpasses anything we know of in the bell line. Its 
 surface is smooth as glass, and the color of the bell indicates the fact that only the 
 best and purest materials has been used in its composition. Wishing you every suc- 
 cess which your strict business principles merit, I am, &c. 
 
 REV. T. Q. GAFFNEY, East Rutland, Vt., writes: The bell and invoice were 
 delivered on Monday. I delayed my acknowledgment that I might hear it ring from 
 the place set up for it. I have now the pleasure of assuring you that in clearness, 
 sweetness, and for its size, fulness of sound, it more than realizes my expectations 
 from your very high recommendations, &c. 
 
TROT BELL FOCNDET. 43 
 
 HISTORY OF BELLS. 
 
 There is a history connected with the art of the manufacture 
 of bells which is worthy of note to any one interested in the 
 development and improvement of the mechanical arts, to meet 
 the requirements of man, and to gratify his desire for excellence 
 and perfection. True, the founding of bells is not a process as 
 complicated as the manufacture of a watch or a steam engine, 
 yet its capacity or power for the accomplishment of the result 
 designed — producing agreeable and pleasing vibrations when 
 struck with the hammer — requires the exercise of skill and the 
 nicest discrimination, as the delicacy, exactness, and perfect 
 adjustment of that most sensitive of all human organs or senses, 
 the EAR, is to be pleased or displeased by its sound ; and in its 
 capacity or power to produce perfect, or even agreeable sounds, 
 lies its whole utility. The first manufacture of these sonorous 
 Instruments was necessarily very imperfect — little better than 
 common kettles, indeed — since nothing was known of that nice 
 and exact combination of metals prepared and proportioned 
 with reference to the effect of each and all upon the sound pro- 
 duced ; the shaping of the instrument to modify and improve 
 the vibrations ; the degree of elevation, and kind of tower — all 
 affecting the sound. It was left to the genius of a later day to 
 develop these scientific facts, and their relation to the efficiency 
 and construction of the belL 
 
 As to the exact origin of bells history has given no definite 
 account. The sonorous properties of certain metals and com- 
 binations of metals was known at a very early period, though 
 the bell as known to our time is not an instrument of so great 
 
44 TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 antiquity. Small tinkling instruments are mentioned by the 
 old Hebrew writers as having been used as ornampnta or appen- 
 dages to the dress or tunics worn by the high-priests, and 
 persons of distinction, but as to their shape nothing definite 
 has been recorded. The origin of the name is from the old 
 Saxon word hellan, to bawl or bellow. The Hebrew word 
 translated by the English word bell is susceptable of other 
 translations. . It meant any instrument that made a tinkling 
 sound, and hence the instruments attached to the robes of 
 priests to give notice of their approach to tlie sanctuar)^, were 
 probably ornamental contrivances, which made a noise when they 
 were moved. In those instruments, however, whatever shape 
 they may have had, we liave the origin of the principle of the 
 bell. The bell is used to this day, in Roman Catholic countries, 
 for a similar purpose to that recorded in scripture ; especially 
 is it now used by the priest as he proceeds to render the rite of 
 extreme unction to the soul that is passing away ; and so when 
 the bell is tinkled, in administering the sacrament, by the same 
 priest, it is in pursuance of a custom founded on the ancient 
 Hebrew use of it. Perhaps no instrument of music (for it is 
 ranked by musicians among the musical instruments of percus- 
 sion) is more intimately associated with the religious and 
 imaginative, as also with the most joyous and the saddest feel- 
 ings of mankind. A quaint old writer has described their 
 threefold duties thus : 
 
 To call the fold to church in time, 
 
 We chime. 
 When joy and njirth are on the wing, 
 
 We ring. 
 When we lament a departed soul, 
 
 We toll. 
 
 Those small bells were used in the early ages for civil, mili- 
 tary and religious purposes, and bells of a larger make are 
 extensively used in our day for civil and religious purposes also. 
 The first use of bells in christian churches to call people to 
 prayer or service, of -which we have any record, was by St. 
 Paulinus, in Campania, about the year 395 of the Christian 
 
TROY BELL FODNDKY. 45 
 
 Era, after which it was gradually introduced into all churches 
 of every denomination in the world. More or less sacredness, 
 superstition and importance were attached to them and their 
 use. By the Eoman Catholics they are solemnly blessed, as 
 they are consecrated to their holy work of summoning worship- 
 pers to their religions rites. From the circumstance of the bell 
 receiving a name, and being washed with lioly water, the cere- 
 mony is frequently called the baptism of bells. No form of 
 baptism, however, is used. There is something poetical, at the 
 same time playful, in the custom of giving the bell sponsors, 
 who are usually persons who have presented the bell to the 
 church, or who contribute handsomely to the expense of pur- 
 chasing it, at the time of blessing. Chrism and oil are used in 
 the ceremony of benediction, and in all the more solemn conse- 
 crations of utensils employed in the divine service. This 
 consecration of bells dates back, to a very early period. In 
 Charlemagne's Capitulary of 787, we find the prohibition " ut 
 clocccB baptizentur ;" and in the old liturgies of the Catholic 
 church is a furm of consecration directing the priests to wash 
 the bell with water, anoint it with oil, and mark it with the 
 sign of the cross, in the name of the Trinity. The practice of 
 naming bells was also an early one — as far back as 968, when 
 John XIII named the great bell of the Lateran church, for 
 himself, John. In Catholic churches is now in constant use 
 what is denominated the Sanctus bell, a small instrument rung 
 by an attendant just previous to the elevation of the Host, in 
 order to fix the attention of the people. It was formerly larger 
 and hung in the outer turret of the church, and was rung at the 
 words " Sancte, sancte, sancte, Deus Sabbaoth," when all the 
 people within hearing, in or out of church, were enjoined to 
 bow in adoration. The Ave Maria bell was rung at fixed hours 
 to remind all to offer supplication to the Virgin, and to mark 
 the hours of beginning and cessation of labor. The Vesper bell, 
 immortalized by poets, was the call to evening prayer, the 
 Complin bell summoned the people to the last religious service 
 of the day. The passing bell was rung among the ancient cus- 
 toms that those who heard it might pray for the soul that was 
 leaving this world, and this practice gave rise to the superstition 
 
46 TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 which gives the bell a mysterious connection with departed 
 spirits ; and the belief has extensively prevailed that the evil 
 spirits, waiting to seize the stranger about entering their domain 
 are driven off in terror at its sound, and leave the neophyte an 
 entrance free and unobstructed to the world of spirits, and 
 at the gate of his own choosing. From this old custom probably 
 is derived that of tolling bells at funerals, practiced in our day ; 
 also that practiced in many localities of tolling the bell imme- 
 diately after death, the number of times of striking it indicating 
 the age in years of the deceased. It is also rung while the pro- 
 cession is marching to the grave and the corpse is being lowered 
 into the ground. The bell was also used in Catholic churches 
 during the ceremony of excommunication. There were almost 
 numberless superstitions in connection with the bell many 
 centuries ago : disconcerting evil spirits, preventing eclipses, 
 averting tempests, preventing infections, abating lightnings, and 
 many other things equally absurd, as they were supposed to be 
 caused by evil spirits, who would be driven off by the sound of 
 the bell. 
 
 Some historians tell us that William the Conqueror intro- 
 duced into England from France the custom of ringing the 
 Curfew bell, which " tolled the hour of parting day." Others 
 say the good King Alfred introduced the custom. It consisted 
 of ringing a bell at' eight or nine o'clock in the evening, when 
 every one was expected to extinguish fire and lights in the 
 house and retire. It was called Curfew from this latter circum- 
 stance, which is from the French words couvre feu, cover fire. 
 Hence, when at a later day, the " Curfew tolled the knell of 
 parting day" there was no reason why, in its origin or associa- 
 tions, one should feel especially sad. This practice of ringing 
 a bell at a certain hour was not peculiar to England, for it pre- 
 vailed to a considerable extent in all the countries on the conti- 
 nent ; as the buildings were generally of wood, it was intended, 
 at a later period, as a precaution against fires, which were 
 common, and the arbitrary law of compelling all to retire was 
 abolished or gradually abandoned. The passing and curfew 
 bells are still represented in some New England and New York 
 villages ; the one, as a funeral procession slowly wends its way 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 47 
 
 to the graveyard, and the other, by the nine o'clock bell, which 
 hints to all the time for visiting to cease, and preparations to 
 be made for retiring — an hour later than in the time of William 
 the Conqueror, it is true, but yet, in general, an hour or tvFO 
 too early, even for the quiet residents of New England towns. 
 As a signal to call people together to join in any concerted 
 action, the bell has been used from remote times ; the feast of 
 Osiris was announced by the ringing of bells, and the same 
 sound to this day notifies hungry mortals the time to join in 
 satisfying their appetite. The Romans announced the time of 
 bathing by ringing of bells ; and the early Christians made use 
 of the method to designate the hour of prayer, a practice kept 
 up by Roman Catholics in the ringing of the Angelus at morn- 
 ing, noon and night, at the sound of which Catholics are 
 expected to join in this rite ; and by the Protestant, in the 
 church-going bell, which summons him to devotion. In Britain 
 bells were applied to church purposes before the conclusion of 
 the seventh century, in the monastic societies of Northumbria, 
 and even as early as the sixth in those of Caledonia. They 
 were therefore used from the first erection of parish churches. 
 Those of France and England appear to have been furnished 
 with several bells. In France bells were sometimes made 
 of iron ; and in England, as formerly at Rome, they were 
 frequently made of brass. In times of public danger, the bells 
 were rung, and signal fires were burned to alarm the country ; 
 sometimes, also, they were employed to alarm the public enemy 
 as well, under the impression, apparently, that they would be 
 inspired with the same terror as the evil spirits waiting for their 
 victim. In the year 610, when Clothaire II, King of France, 
 beseiged Sens, Lupus, the Bishop of Orleans, ordered for this 
 purpose the bells of St. Stephen's to be rung ; and as late as 
 ]457, Calixtus III employed the same device as a security 
 against the dreaded Osmans, who considered bells their most 
 dangerous foe ; whence they were at this time called Turk's 
 bells. Among. the Greeks, those who went the nightly rounds 
 in camps or garrisons, carried with them little bells, which they 
 rung at each sentry box, to see that the soldiers on watch were 
 awake. A codonophorus, or bellman also walked in funeral 
 
48 TEOY BELL FOUNDEY. 
 
 processions, some space in advance of the corpse, not only to 
 keep off the crowd, but to advertise the flamen dialis to keep 
 out of the way, lest he should be polluted by the sight, or by 
 the funerary music. The priest of Proserpine at Athens, called 
 hierophantes, rung the bell to call the people to sacrifice. There 
 were also bells in the houses of great men, to call the servants 
 in the morning. Zonaras informs us that bells were suspended 
 along with whips on the triumphal chariots of victorious gen- 
 erals, in order to put them in mind that they were still liable to 
 public justice. Bells were also put on the necks of criminals 
 going to execution, that persons might be warned by the noise 
 to avoid so ill an omen as the sight of the haJngmau, or the 
 condemned criminal, who was devoted to the dii manes. We 
 find in history mention of bells on the necks of brutes; and 
 taking them away was construed theft by the civil law. The 
 custom in the United States of putting bells on cows, sheep, 
 &c., to prevent their straying away, doubtless grew out of this 
 practice of the ancients. 
 
 In our cities alarm bells are rung to an extent our ancestors 
 never dreamed of; and their sound, grown familiar to our ears, 
 no longer inspires terror, as it calls the firemen to their duties. 
 In the quaint old rhymes of the monks, and the songs of the 
 poets, whi(ih commemorate the uses of the bell, this modern 
 application of it is not alluded to. Their various early uses 
 have been summed up in the following old distich : 
 
 Laudo Deum verum, plebeni voco, congrego clerum, Defunctos ploro, pestem fugo, 
 festa decoro. 
 
 Schiller, however, in his celebrated "Song of the Bells," the 
 motto of which is, 
 
 Vivos voco, mortuos plango, fulgura frango, 
 
 does not omit to notice this fear-inspiring sound. Indeed, in 
 this beautiful poem, all the joys, sorrows, pangs, emotions, ter- 
 rors, and blessings attendant on humanity, in connection with 
 the part wMch the bell plays are most vividly portrayed. Even 
 the description of the various operations of mixing and fusing 
 the alloy, and pouring the liquid metal into the mould prepared 
 to give it its shape, are happily interwoven with all those uses 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDRY. 49 
 
 which the bell is thereafter to serve. Each phase of the process 
 suggests its appropriate phase of human life ; and the story of 
 the bell draws forth those admirable pictures of the infant pre- 
 sented at the baptismal font — of the maiden at the altar — of the 
 sweet ministrations of maternity and home — of man's ambition 
 and woman's love — such as the hand of a master workman alone 
 can produce. This poem is so touchingly beautiful we repro- 
 duce a portion of it here : 
 
 " What we are formirg iu the mould 
 By dint of band and melting flame, 
 High in the church-tower shall be tolled, 
 And far and wide our work proclaim. 
 
 To distant days it shall remain, 
 Its notes on manj an ear shall fall ; 
 
 Its chimes with sorrow shall complain, 
 And ring abroad devotion's call. 
 
 " Whatever to us mortals here 
 A shifting destiny e'er brings. 
 Is struck tipon its metal clear 
 
 Which to all ears the lesson rings." 
 
 " Clear and full with festal sound. 
 It hails the lovely infant child, 
 First entering on his earthly round, 
 Borne in the arms of slumber mild. 
 
 " When the manly and the fair, 
 
 When strength and beauty form a pair. 
 Then rings it out a merry song; 
 
 Lovely in the young bride's hair 
 Shines the bridal coronal ; 
 
 While the church-bell-chimes so fair 
 Summon to the festival. 
 
 From the dome 
 
 Heavy and long 
 
 Sounds the bell 
 
 A funeral song. 
 Solemnly, with measured strokes, attending 
 Weary wanderer on his last way wending." 
 
50 TROT BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 None the less beautiful, though of a difierent vein of senti- 
 ment, is the poem of Edgar A. Poe, entitled " Tlie Bells." 
 
 Hear the sledges with the bells — 
 
 Silver bells ! 
 What a world of merriment their melody tells. 
 How they tiukle, tinkle, 
 In the icy air of night ! 
 While the stars that over sprinkle 
 All the heavens, seem to tinkle 
 
 With the crystalline delight ; 
 Keeping time, time, time 
 In a sort of Runic rhyme. 
 To the tintinnabulation that so musically wells 
 From the bells, bells, bells, bells, 
 Bells, bells, bells— 
 From the jingling and tinkling of the bells. 
 
 II. 
 
 Hear the mellow Tredding bells, 
 
 Golden bells ! 
 What a world of happiness their harmony foretells! 
 Through the balmy air of night 
 How they ring out their delight ! 
 From the molten golden notes. 
 
 And all in tune, 
 What a liquid ditty floats 
 To the turtle dove that listens, while she gloats, 
 On the moon ! 
 On, from out the souding cells. 
 What a gush of euphony voluminously swells ! 
 How it swells ! 
 How it dwells 
 On the Future ! how it tells. 
 Of the rapture that impels 
 To the swinging and the ringing 
 
 Of the bells, bells, bells. 
 Of the bells, bells, bells, bells, 
 
 Bells, bells, bells. 
 To the rhyming and the chiming of the bells ! 
 
 III. 
 
 Hear the loud alarum bells — 
 
 Brazen bells! 
 What a tale of terror, now, their turbulency tells ! 
 
 In the startled ear of night 
 
 How they scream out their affright ! 
 
TEOT BELL FOUNDRY. 51 
 
 Too much horrified to speak 
 They can only shriek, shrlelc 
 Out of tune, 
 In a clamorous appealing to the mercy of the fire, 
 In a mad expostulation with the deaf and frantic fire 
 Leaping higher, higher, higher, 
 With a desperate desire, 
 And a resolute endeavor, 
 Now — now to sit or never 
 By the side of the pale-faced moon. 
 
 Oh the bells, bells, bells, 
 What a tale their terror tells 
 Of despair. 
 How they clang, and clash, and roar 
 What a horror they outpour 
 On the bosom of a palpitating air ! 
 Yet the ear it fully knows. 
 By the twanging. 
 And the clanging, 
 How the danger ebbs and flows ; 
 Yet the car distinctly tells. 
 In the jangling. 
 And the wrangling. 
 How the danger sinks and swells. 
 
 By the surging or the swelling in the anger of the bells — 
 Of the bells— 
 Of the bells, bells, bells, bells. 
 Bells, bells, bells — 
 In the clangor and the clamor of the bells! 
 
 IV. 
 
 Hear the tolling of the bells — 
 
 Iron bells ! 
 What a world of solemn thought their monody compels ! 
 In the silence of the night, 
 How we shiver with affright, 
 At the melancholy menace of their tone ! 
 For every sound that floats 
 From the rust within their throats 
 Is a groan. 
 And the people — oh the people — 
 They that dwell up in the steeple, 
 
 All alone, 
 And who, tolling, tolling, tolling, 
 
 In that muffled monotone. 
 Feel a glory in so rolling 
 
 On the human heart a stone — 
 
52 TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 They are neither man nor woman — 
 They are neither brute nor human — 
 
 They are Ghouls : 
 And their king it is who tolls ; 
 And be rolls, rolls, rolls. 
 Rolls 
 A psean from the bells! 
 And his merry bosom swells 
 With the psean of the bells ! 
 And he dances, and he yells ; 
 Keeping time, time, time. 
 In a sort of Kunio rhyme, 
 
 To the throbbing of the bells — 
 Of the bells, bells, bells— 
 To the sobbing of the bells ; 
 Keeping time, time, time. 
 
 As he knells, knells, knells, 
 In the happy Runic rhyme, 
 
 To the rolling of the bells — 
 Of the bells, bells, bells — 
 To the tolling of the bells. 
 
 Of the bells, bells, bells, bells- 
 Bells, bells, bells — 
 To- the moaning and the groaning of the bells. 
 
 The ringing of bells, on account of the associations, arouses 
 feelings of patriotism in the breast. John G. Whittier, that 
 author of many national lyrics, on hearing the bells ring for 
 joy on account of the passage of the constitutional amendment 
 abolishing slavery in the United States, expresses his feelings 
 in the poem, " Laus Deo." 
 
 It is done ! 
 
 Clang of bell and roar of gun 
 Send the tidings up and down. 
 
 How the belfries rock and reel, 
 
 How the great guns, peal on peal 
 Fling joy from town to town ! 
 
 Ring, bells ! 
 
 Every stroke exulting tells 
 Of the burial hour of crime. 
 
 Loud and long, that all may hear, 
 
 Ring for every listening ear 
 Of Eternity and Time. 
 
TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 53 
 
 Let us kneel ; 
 
 God's own voice is in that peal, 
 And this spot is holy ground. 
 
 Lord, forgive us ! What are we, 
 
 That our eyes this glory see, 
 That our ears have heard the sound ! 
 
 Ring and swing 
 Bells of joy ! on morning's wing 
 
 Send the song of praise abroad ; 
 With a sound of broken chains, 
 Tell the nations that He reigns. 
 
 Who alone is Lord and God. 
 
 Who has not heard of the Christmas bells ? Henry W. Long- 
 fellow, one of America's most brilliant and beloved poets, has 
 made them immortal : 
 
 I heard the bells on Christmas Day 
 Their old, familiar carols play. 
 
 And wild and sweet 
 
 The words repeat 
 Of peace on earth, good will to men! 
 
 And thought how, as the day had come. 
 The belfries of all Christendom 
 
 Had rolled along 
 
 The unbroken song 
 Of peace on earth, good will to men ! 
 
 Till, ringing, singing on its way, 
 
 The world revolved from night to day, 
 
 A voice, a chime 
 
 A chant sublime 
 Of peace on earth, good will to men ! 
 
 Then from each black, accursed mouth. 
 
 The cannon thundered in the South, *' 
 
 And with the sound 
 
 The carols drowned 
 Of peace on earth, good will to men ! 
 
54 TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 It was as if an earthquake rent 
 The hearth-stones of a continent, 
 
 And made forlorn 
 
 The households born 
 Of peace on earth, good will to men ! 
 
 As in despair I bowed my head ; 
 " There is no peace on earth," I said ; 
 " For hate is strong 
 And mocks the song 
 Of peace on earth, good will to men ! " 
 
 Then pealed the bells more loud and deep : 
 " God is not dead ; nor doth he sleep ! 
 The Wrong shall fail, 
 The Right prevail. 
 With peace on earth, good will to men ! " 
 
 Alfred Tennyson, the English Poet Laureate, burst forth in 
 the following strain of admiration to the ringing out of the 
 bells : 
 
 Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky. 
 
 The flying clouds, the frosty light ; 
 
 The year is dying in the night ; 
 Ring out, wild bells, and let him die. 
 
 Ring out the old, ring in the new, 
 
 Ring, happy bells, across the snow : 
 
 The year is going, let him go : 
 Ring out the false, ring in the true. 
 
 Ring out the grief that saps the mind, 
 
 For those that here we see no more ; 
 
 King out the feud of rich and poor. 
 Ring in redress to all mankind. 
 
 Ring out the slowly dying cause. 
 
 And ancient forms of party strife ; 
 
 Ring in the nobler modes of life. 
 With sweeter manners, purer laws. 
 
 Ring out the want, the care, the sin. 
 
 The faithless coldness of the times ; 
 
 Ring out, ring out my mournful rhymes. 
 But ring the fuller minstrel in. 
 
TROT BELL FOUNDRY. 55 
 
 Ring out false pride in place and blood, 
 
 The civic slander and the spite ; 
 
 Ring in the love of truth and right, 
 Ring in the common love of good. 
 
 Ring out old shapes of foul disease. 
 
 Ring out the narrowing lust of gold ; 
 
 Ring out the thousand wars of old. 
 Ring in the thousand years of peace. 
 
 Ring in the valiant man and free. 
 
 The larger heart, the kindlier hand ; 
 
 Ring out the darkness of the land. 
 Ring in the Christ that is to be. 
 
 ELECTRICAL BELLS. 
 
 Electrical bells are used in a variety of entertaining exhibi- 
 tions by electricians. The apparatus, which is originally of 
 German invention, consists of three small bells, suspended from 
 a narrow plate of metal, the two outermost by chains, and that 
 in the middle, from which a chain passes to the floor, by a silken 
 string. Two small knobs of brass are also suspended by silken 
 strings, one on each side of the bell in the middle, which serve 
 for clappers. When this apparatus is connected with an electri- 
 fied conductor, the outermost bells suspended by the chains 
 will be charged, attract the clappers, and be struck by them. 
 The clappers, becoming electrified, will likewise be repelled by 
 these bells, and attracted by the middle bell, and discharge 
 themselves upon it by means of the chain extending to the 
 floor. After this they will be again attracted by the outer- 
 most bells, and thus, by striking the bells alternately, occasion 
 a ringing, which may be continued at pleasure. Flashes of 
 light will be seen in the dark between the bells and clappers, 
 and if the electrification be strong, the discharge will be made 
 without actual contact, and the ringing will cease. 
 
5G TROY BELL FOUNDEY. 
 
 MUSICAL BELLS. 
 
 Music bells are still in use in some parts of Europe, and to 
 some extent in this country, and are looked upon as a rare 
 novelty. They are played in Europe by means of keys, not 
 unlike those of a piano forte. An old painting of King David 
 represents him as playing, vifitii a hanimer in each hand, upon 
 five bells, whicli vs^ere hung up before him. The music of the 
 THiRTY-THEEE bells vs'hich were suspended in the tower of the 
 Cathedral at Antwerp is highly celebrated. One of these bells 
 was seven feet wide, and eight feet high. The Swiss bell- 
 ringers, famous for their performances, produce the most exqui- 
 site melody from hand bells. The Peak family, and others, in 
 this country, have also become famous in this connection. So 
 skillful are they in the use of them, that they will change from 
 one to another with very great rapidity. The bells vary in 
 size from a large cow-bell to the smallest dinner bell, all with 
 a different key ; and as many as forty-two are used by a com- 
 pany of seven persons. 
 
 Bells were early introduced into almost all the countries of 
 Europe. We find three golden bells, in an azure field, making 
 the coat of arms of the imperial house of the Comneni, one of 
 the most illustrious families that have occupied the Byzantine 
 throne. 
 
 LARGE BELLS. 
 
 We have stated that bells were first introduced into use in 
 churches about the year 395 of the Christian Era. Since then 
 many very large, and on this account, prominent, bells have 
 been made. As early as the sixth century churches were 
 furnished with their campanile, or bell-tower, which still con- 
 tinues to be one of their distinguishing features. Several were 
 used in a single church, as is still the custom, when arranged in 
 chimes, or, as is sometimes the case, without regard to harmony 
 of tones. This practice of ringing bells in change, or regular 
 peals, is said to be peculiar to England, and the custom seems 
 
TROY BELL FOUNDRY. 57 
 
 to have been introduced in the time of the Saxons, and to have 
 been quite common before the Conquest. The tolling of a bell 
 is nothing more than the production of sound by a stroke of the 
 clapper against the side of the bell, the bell itself being in a 
 pendant position and at rest. But in ringing, the bell is eleva- 
 ted to a horizontal position, so that, by means of a wheel and a 
 rope, the clapper strikes forcibly on one side as it ascends, and 
 on the other side in its return downvi-ards, producing at each 
 stroke a sound. In England and the United States the ringing 
 of bells is reduced to a system, and peals have been composed 
 which bear the names of the inventor. 
 
 There are many very large bells in use. The church of the 
 Abbey of Croyland, in England, had one great bell named 
 Suthlac, presented by the Abbot Turketulus, who died about 
 the year 870, and subsequently six others, presented by his 
 successor, Egelric, and named Bartholomew and Betelin, Tur- 
 ketel and Tatwin, Bega and Pega. When all these were rung 
 together, Ingulphus says, " Fiebat mirabilis harmonia, nee erat 
 tunc tanta consonantia campanarum in tota Anglia.'^ But Russia 
 exceeds all other countries in its foundries for bells. In Mos- 
 cow alone, before the revolution, there were no less than 1,766 
 large bells; in a single tower there were thirty-seven. One 
 was so large that it required twenty-four men to ring it, and 
 this was done by simply pulling the clapper. Its weight is 
 estimated at 288,000 pounds. The great bell cast by order of 
 the Empress Anne, in 1653, and now lying broken upon the 
 ground, is estimated to weigh 443,772 pounds; it is 19 feet 
 high, and measures around its margin 63 feet 11 inches. The 
 value of the metal alone in this bell is estimated to amount to 
 over $300,000. Whether this bell was ever hung or not 
 authorities seem to differ. We take from Clarke's Travels the 
 following extract concerning the bells of Moscow, and of the 
 great bell in particular : " The numberless bells of Moscow 
 continue to ring during the whole of Easter week, tinkling and 
 tolling without harmony or order. The large bell near the 
 cathedral, is only used upon important occasions, and yields the 
 finest and most solemn tone I ever heard. When it sounds, a 
 deep hollow murmur vibrates all over Moscow, like the fullest 
 8 
 
5S TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 tones of a vast organ, or the rolling, of distant thunder. This 
 bell is suspended in a tower called the belfry of St. Ivan, 
 beneath others which, though of less size, are enormous. It is 
 40 feet 9 inches in circumference, 16^ inches thick, and weighs 
 more than fifty-seven tons." The gi'eat bell of Moscow, 
 known to be the largest ever founded, is in a deep pit in the 
 midst of Kremlin. The history of its fall is a fable, and as 
 writers continue to copy each other, the story continues to be 
 propagated ; the fact is, the bell remains where it was origi- 
 nally cast ; it was never suspended. The Russians might as 
 well, says this same writer, attempt to suspend a first-rate line 
 of battle ship with all its guns and stores. A fire took place in 
 the Kremlin, the flames of which caught the building erected 
 over the pit in which the bell yet remained ; in consequence of 
 this the metal became hot, and water thrown to extinguish the 
 fire fell upon the bell, causing the fracture which has taken 
 place. This bell is truly a mountain of metal. It has been 
 said to contain a large proportion of gold and silver, for while 
 it was in fusion the nobles and the people cast in as votive 
 offerings their plate and money. But this story is probably a 
 fiction. The natives of Russia regard it with superstitious vene- 
 ration, and they will not allow even a grain to be filed off that 
 it may be tested ; at the same time, we are informed that the 
 compound has a white, shining appearance, unlike bell metal 
 in general, and perhaps its silvery appearance has strengthened, 
 if not given rise to a conjecture respecting the richness of its 
 materials. On festival days the peasants visit the bell as they 
 would a church, considering it an act of devotion, and they 
 cross themselves as they descend and ascend the steps leading 
 to the bell. In 1837 the Czar Nicholas caused this great bell 
 to be elevated from the deep pit in which it lay, and to be 
 placed upon a granite pedestal. Upon its side is seen, over a 
 border of flowers, the figure of the Empress Anne in flowing 
 robes. The bell has been consecrated a chapel ; the door is in 
 the aperture made by the piece which fell out. The size of 
 the room is 22 feet diameter and 21 feet 3 inches in height. 
 The bells of China rank next in size to those of Russia. In 
 Pekii), it is stated by Father Le Compte, there are seven bells, 
 
TEOr BELL FOUNDRY. 59 
 
 each weighing 120,000 pounds. Excepting the bells recently 
 cast for the new Houses of Parliament, the largest of which 
 weighs fourteen tons, there is only one bell in England larger 
 than that upon the City Hall in New York city, it was cast in 
 1845, for York Minster, and weighs 27,000 pounds, and is only 
 seven feet seven inches in diameter. The great Tom of Oxford 
 weighs 17,000 pounds ; and the great Tom of Lincoln 12,000 
 pounds. The bell of St. Paul's, in London, is nine feet in 
 diameter, and weighs 11,500 pounds. One placed in the Cathe- 
 dral of Paris, in 1680, weighs 38,000 pounds. Another in 
 Vienna, cast in 1711, weighs 40,000 pounds; and in Olmutz is 
 another weighing about the same. The famous bell called 
 lusanne of Erfurt, is considered to be of the finest bell metal, 
 containing the largest proportion of silver ; its weight is about 
 30,000 pounds. It was cast in 1497. Luther, when a school 
 boy, must have heard its earliest peals, and in later years have 
 welcomed its sound at each return to Erfurt. At Montreal, 
 Canada, is a larger bell than any in England. It was imported 
 in 1843 for the Notre Dame Cathedral. Its weight is 29,458 
 pounds. In the opposite tower of the Cathedral is a chime of 
 ten bells, the heaviest of which weighs 6,043 pounds, and their 
 aggregate weight is 21,800 pounds. 
 
 Chimes are a collection of bells struck with hammers; or a 
 set of music bells struck by hammers acted on by a pinned 
 cylinder, or barrel, which is made to revolve by clock-work. 
 These are frequently attached to time pieces, and so arranged 
 as to produce chimes, or tunes, at stated intervals ; also in 
 church towers to be rung in unison. 
 
 There are but few bells of a very large size in the United 
 States. The heaviest is the alarm bell on the City Hall in New 
 York. It was cast in Boston, and weighs about 23,000 pounds. 
 Its diameter at mouth is about eight feet ; its height about six 
 feet, and thickness at the point where the clapper strikes six 
 and a half or seven inches. The bell now in the Hall of Inde- 
 pendence, in Philadelphia, is celebrated as being connected 
 with the ever memorable 4th of July, 1776, when it first 
 announced by its peal the declaration then made, the most 
 important event in the history of our country. It was imported 
 
60 TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 from England in 1752, and owing to its being cracked on trial 
 by a stroke of the clapper, was re-cast in Philadelphia, under 
 the direction of Mr. Isaac Norris, to whom we are probably 
 indebted for the following inscription, which surrounds the bell 
 near the top, from Leviticus xxv., 10 : " Proclaim liberty 
 throughout all the land, unto all the inhabitants thereof." 
 Immediately beneath this is added : " By order of the Assem- 
 bly of the Province of Penn. for the State House in Phil." 
 Under this again, "Pass & Stow, Phil., MDCCLIII." In 
 1777, during the occupation of Philadelphia by the British, the 
 bell was removed to Lancaster. After its return it was used as 
 State House bell until the erection of the present steeple with 
 its bell in 1S2S. Then it ceased to be used, excepting on 
 extraordinary occasions. Finally it was removed to its present 
 appropriate resting place in the Hall of Independence. Its last 
 ringing, when it was unfortunately cracked, was in honor of the 
 visit of Henry Clay to Philadelphia. There are no other bells 
 of special interest in this country, though many of superior 
 make, and of comparatively large size, in all the larger cities 
 of the States. Those used upon the fire alarm towers are from 
 9,000 to 12,000 pounds weight. They are hung in a fixed 
 position, and struck by a hammer, instead of being turned over. 
 
 METALS USED. 
 
 Bells have been made of various metals. In France formerly 
 iron was used, and in other parts of Europe brass was a common 
 material. In SheiBeld, England, the manufacture of cast-steel 
 bells has been recently introduced ; this material is said to have 
 an advantage over others in being of greater strength and less 
 weight. Steel bells are cast by pouring the contents of the 
 steel pots into the bell mould instead of into the ordinary ingot 
 moulds. But their tone is said to be harsh and very disagree- 
 able, hence the bell will probably never come into use to any 
 extent. Cast-steel drills, bent into the form of a triangle, and 
 suspended to a building, or post, are much used in place of 
 
TEOY BELL FOUNDKY. 61 
 
 bells about mining establishment. But the bell metal, that 
 which is in most extensive use and most generally approved, is 
 an alloy of copper and tin, in no fixed proportion, but varying 
 from 65 to 80 per cent, of copper and the remainder tin. But 
 other metals are often introduced, as zinc, with the object of 
 adding to the shrillness of the sound, silver to its softness, and 
 also lead. The metal of a bell in England was analyzed, and 
 found to consist of copper 800 parts, tin 101, zinc 56, and lead 
 43. Cymbals and gongs contain 81 copper and 13 tin. Mr. 
 Denison, who had charge of the founding of the new bells for 
 the British Houses of Parliament, thinks the use of silver is 
 entirely imaginary ; and that there is no reason for believing it 
 could be of any service. He condemns the use of all other 
 materials but copper and tin, and advised that contracts for bells 
 stipulate that the alloy shall consist of at least 20 per cent, of 
 tin, and remainder copper. Three and a half to one is perhaps 
 the best proportion. These views are generally conceded by 
 manufacturers in this country to be correct, and they are 
 generally govei-ned by them. The bell founders have a diapason, 
 or scale, wherewith they measure the size, thickness, weight, 
 and tone of their bells, and have carried the art of making them 
 to a high degree of perfection. 
 
 The sound of a bell is produced by the vibratory motion of 
 its parts, somewhat like that of a musical chord. The stroke 
 of the clapper must necessarily change the figure of the bell, 
 and from a circle convert it into an oval or ellipse ; but the 
 metal having a great degree of elasticity, that part impinged on 
 by the clapper, and driven farthest from the center, will return, 
 apd even incline nearer the center than before; so that the two. 
 parts which were extremes of the longest diameter become in 
 turn those of the shortest; and thus the external surface of the 
 bejl undergoes alternate changes of figure, and by this means 
 gives that tremulous motion to the air, in which the sound 
 consists. The proportion of metals, shape and proportion of 
 bells, all affect the sound, hence the adjusting of a bell to pro- 
 duce a smooth, uniform, even sound, requires skill and experi- 
 ence, and thorough testing. There are different theories as to 
 the philosophy of sound produced by the bell. One eminent 
 
62 TROY BELL B'OUNDRY. 
 
 writer maintains that a bell is a compound of an infinite number 
 of rings, which, according to tlieir dimensions, have different 
 tones, as chords of different lengths have ; and when struck, the 
 vibrations of the parts immediately impinged determine the 
 tone, being supported by a sufficient number of consonant tones 
 in the other parts. 
 
 Bells are heard to a greater distance when placed on plains 
 than on hills, and still furtl)er in valleys than on plains ; the 
 reason of which seems to be, that the higher the sonorous body 
 the rarer is the medium, and, consequently, the less impulse it 
 receives, and the less proper medium it is to convey sound to a 
 distance. 
 
 SHAPE OF BELLS. 
 
 As pots and other vessels more immediately necessary in the 
 service of life were made before bells, it probably happened 
 that the observing of these vessels to have a sound when struck 
 gave rise to the making of larger bells of that form ; but that 
 hemispherical form proved not to be the best and is now only 
 used in small bells, such as door-bells, clocks, &c., but entirely 
 unfitted for the heavy, far-reaching, and pleasing tones required 
 in large bells. The conical form in general use is most 
 approved. 
 
 MANUFACTURE OF BELLS. 
 
 The European process of casting bells is to make the mould 
 m a depression in the sand floor of the foundry, piling up a 
 hollow case of brickwork upon a solid foundation, in which a 
 fire is kept burning to preserve the liquid metal, when poured 
 around it, from too rapid cooling. The outer surface of the 
 case is the shape of the inner surface of the bell. To give the 
 outer surface, a cover of earthenware is " fashioned to fit over 
 the case, leaving between these a vacant space to be filled with 
 
TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 63 
 
 the metal. This arrangement is deficient in not providing 
 proper escape for tlie gases, which are engendered in heavy 
 castings in the earth, and which are liable to cause the metal 
 to be porous, or, being highly inflamable, to explode with great 
 damage. An improved process has been introduced at the 
 Troy Bell Foundry, consisting in the use of perforated iron 
 cases, the outer one in the shape of the bell, and the inner one 
 the case, which sets in the center of its saucer-shaped founda- 
 tion. Eacli of these receives a coating of loam, the outer one 
 within, and the case around its outside; but over the latter is 
 first WTapped a straw rope, which, taking fire and burning 
 slowly as the metal is poured between the two cases, leaves a 
 free space for the bell to contract in cooling without straining. 
 The perforations through the cases let out the vapors, and also 
 serve to keep the coating of loam in its place. As the gas 
 escapes through these holes, it burns with a pale blue flame 
 without risk, the whole apparatus being placed above the level 
 of the ground. 
 
 The best proportion of the height of a bell to its greatest 
 diameter is said, by foreign authorities, to be as 12 to 15. In 
 conformity to the laws of accoustics, the number of vibrations 
 of a bell varies in inverse ratio with its diameter, or the cube 
 root of its vveight. 
 
 INSCRIPTIONS. 
 
 Many of the inscriptions found on old bells are quaint and 
 interesting as indicating the superstitions and fancies of the 
 ancients in connection with bells, as well as their great reverence 
 for them and fear of their power. They also indicate, in many 
 cases, the customs of the people. These inscriptions were 
 often in honor of some saint, or to commemorate some act of 
 special mercy or charity, or deliverance. A peel of eight bells 
 in the tower of St. Helen's Church, Worcester, England, cast 
 in the year 1706, bear inscriptions in couplets commemorative 
 of Blenheim, Barcelona, Ramilies, Menia, Turin, Egen, Marl- 
 borough and Queen Anne. 
 
64 TKOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 The following old Latin inscription — or fragments of it — has 
 been rung upon European bells for centuries : 
 
 * " Laudo Deum verum, plebem toco, conjugo clerum, 
 Defunctus ploro, pestem fugo, festa liecoro. 
 Funera plango, fiilgiira frango, Sabbata paiigo, 
 Excito lentos, dissipo ventos, paco crucentos." 
 
 The following one has been common in England for 300 
 years, and also much used in this country : 
 
 "I to the church the living call, 
 And to the grave do summon all." 
 
 The following are selections of some old inscriptions : 
 One upon a bell in Wiltshire, England, cast 1619.: 
 
 " Be strong in faythe, prayes God well 
 Francis Countess Hertford's bell." 
 
 Upon one in Oxfordshire, cast 16G7 : 
 
 " I ring to sermon with a lusty boome. 
 That all may come, and none stay at home." 
 
 Upon one in Nottinghamshire, cast 1603 : 
 
 " Jesus be our spede." 
 
 Upon one in Wiltshire, cast 1585 : 
 
 " man be meeke and live in rest." 
 
 Upon one (a fire bell) in Dorsetshire, cast 1652 : 
 
 " Lord quench this furious flame, 
 Arise, run, help, put out the same." 
 
 Upon one in Somersetshire, cast 1700 : 
 
 " AH you of Bath that hear me sound. 
 Thank Lady Hopton's hundred pound." 
 
 * I praise the true God ; I call the people ; I assemble the clergy ; 
 I lament the flead ; I drive away infections ; I grace the festival. 
 I mourn at the burial ; I abate the lightnings ; I annoimce the Sabbath ; 
 I arouse the indolent ; I dissipate the winds ; I appease the revengeful. 
 
TKOY BELL FOUNDRY. 65 
 
 Upon one in Hampshire, cast 1600 : 
 
 " God be our guyd." 
 
 Upon one in Cambridgeshire (St. Benet's Cambridge), one of a 
 peal of six, cast 1607 : 
 
 " Of. al. the. bells, in. Benet. I. am. the. best. 
 And. yet. for. my. casting, the. parish, paide. lest." 
 
 Upon one in Warwickshire, cast 1675 : 
 
 " I ring at six to let men know 
 
 When too and from thair worke to go." 
 
 Upon one in Staffordshire, cast 1604 : 
 
 " Bee it known to all that doth me see 
 That Newcombe of Leicester made me." 
 
 John Martin also makes himself known upon one (of a peal 
 of three) in Worcestershire, cast 1675 : 
 
 " John Martin of Worcester he made wee 
 Be it known to all that do we see." 
 
 The great bell of Eouen, in France, presented to St. Mary's 
 church by George, Archbishop of Rouen, bore this inscription : 
 
 * " Je suis nomme^ George d'Ambois, 
 Qne plus que trente six mil pois ; 
 Kt si qui bien me poysera, 
 Quarante mil y trouvera " 
 
 One of three in Orkney, Scotland, cast in 1528, bears the 
 following : 
 
 "Maid be master robert maxvel, bishop of Orknay, y« second zier of his consecra- 
 tion y° zier of Code I"V» XXVIII, y» XV. zier of kyng James y" V. be robert 
 borthvyk; maid al thre in y" castel of Edynburgh." 
 
 * I am named George of Amboise, and weigh more than thirty-six thousand pounda ; my true 
 weight would be nearer forty thousand. 
 
 9 
 
66 TEOY BELL FOUNDRY. 
 
 Upon the great bell in Grlasgow Cathedral, is this : 
 
 " In the year of grace 1583, Marcus Knox, a merchant in Glasgow, zealous for the 
 interest of the Reformed Religion, oauseJ me to be fabricated in Ilolland for the use 
 of his fellow-citizens of Glasgow, and placed me with solemnityin the Tower of their 
 Cathedral. My function was announced by the impress on ray bosom : ' Me audito 
 venias doctrinam sanetam ut discas,' and I was taught to proclaim the hours of un- 
 heeded time. 196 years had sounded these awful warnings when I was broken by 
 the hands of inconsiderate and unskillful men. In the year 1790, I was cast into the 
 furnace, refounded at London, and returned to my sacred vocation. Reader ! thou 
 also shalt know a resurrection ; may it be to eternal life. Thomas Mears fecit, Lon- 
 don, 1790." 
 
 Most intimately is the voice of the bell associated with the 
 religious and imaginative, as also with the most joyous and 
 saddest feelings of mankind.