Be it Remembered

Methodist Church Bell - 109 Years Old

    The Whitewright First United Methodist Church building, an architecturally unique structure, was completed in July, 1895; it is interesting to note the two towers that grace the building, with the taller tower on the northeast corner being more ornate.  The more ornate tower, called the bell tower, has four different levels or floors; perched on the third level is a large cast iron bell complete with turning wheel, clapper, and dong.  This cast iron bell was installed in the bell tower during March, 1897.

    For years, its steady sound called people to worship; over the years the old bell has pealed life's passages -- birth, marriage, and death.  The old bell served as a fire alarm for the town.

    After years of neglect, the old bell was restored to her full glory; on October 11, 1992, the old bell was rung during the morning and evening worship services, adding a new dimension to the worship services. 

    A rope dangles in the church foyer.  The unseen end disappears into a hole that seems to reach the heavens, but is actually connected to the original bell.  Operated manually, parishioners can pull the rope and ring the bell.  Also, a second rope is attached to a clapper which strikes the inside rim of the bell when stationary.

    Modern technology cannot match the nostalgia of the bell that has echoed throughout Whitewright since 1897; members of the church hear the same bell their parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents before them heard; the old bell is a link between the past and present and future.

    So HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHURCH BELL on your 109th BIRTHDAY!  The old iron bell is a very important piece of our church heritage.  The Whitewright First United Methodist Church may be one of the very few churches with a bell tower and the original bell.

P.S.  Have you ever wondered - why the glasses are clinked after exchanging a New Year's toast?  It is done for the same reason that church bells are rung; to ward off evil spirits.