St. Stephen’s Tower Bells

Since 1981, the sonorous pealing of St. Stephen’s tower bells have been a constant reminder of the presence of God in our neighborhood. A gift from the Amon Carter Foundation, the five bells were cast by the Eijsbouts Bell Foundry in Holland in 1980, and were installed by an American company in 1981. With a total weight about 12,081 pounds, these bells were hoisted up to the tower by crane, one at a time, and attached to their yokes. What an exciting day this must have been at the church! There are many archival photos of this occasion on the Music at St. Stephen Facebook page.

Although an exciting time, apparently, the yokes built by the American company were not strong enough, and when the bells were pealed for the first time, the yokes flexed with the movement of the bells…that is not supposed to happen. The company immediately came and welded on additional steel plates to keep that from happening, and that is what is there today.

For over 40 years, the tower bells have been completely exposed to the elements – literally under the weather. This is an atypical installation. Tower bells are usually installed inside a tower, not on top. While most towers are open on the sides, usually a roof protects the bells and mechanisms from rain, hail, sleet, and snow. Because our bells are so exposed, they require more maintenance. Currently, our tower bells are serviced twice a year. The chains and clapper mechanisms are oiled and a general inspection takes place. About a year ago, after a biannual service appointment, we were notified that the main bolts that hold the two largest bells to their yokes were unable to be tightened, meaning there is a problem inside the yoke. Likely unpreventable rust damage. The two largest bell motors were disconnected at that time, and have not pealed since. You may have noticed in worship that the “Peal of the Tower Bells” is not as pre-sent as it used to be. This is because only the smaller three bells are able to peal.

We have already secured a quote to fix the equipment. It is not cheap. All five bells will be removed and shipped to the factory in Cincinnati where they will be fitted with new yokes and wheels. The new equipment will be made out of stainless steel that will be specially coated to protect from rust. Once a contract is executed, it is likely that the bells will be gone for up to six months.

Now, usually I get to share exciting news about great upcoming events or an exciting project. Sometimes, though, there are less glamorous things that need our attention. I wanted to share this news with our church to keep you informed on a major part of our identity. Eventually, we will need to raise funds for this project, and we don’t want people to be blindsided by this. I hope that when that time comes, whether it be one or five years from now, you will consider helping keep our tower bells pealing.

Okay, that was heavy…let’s lighten the mood! Here’s some TRIVIA for you:
For a chance to win a copy of Sounds from St. Stephen¸ a 2-disc album of choir and organ music, and a recording of the pealing of all five tower bells – WHAT ARE THE NAMES OF EACH OF THE TOWER BELLS? Send answers to jordan@ststephenpresbyterian.com. The first 3 correct submissions will win!

Our tower bells are important. They call us to worship. At memorial services, they honor saints who have passed. They celebrate with us at weddings. They let the neighborhood know the time of day. And, most importantly, they remind anyone within the area of God’s presence and St. Stephen’s presence. We must not let that fade away.

With gratitude and appreciation for all that you do for St. Stephen, 

Jordan Smith