Memorial Bell Tower Ringing Components Restoration

Providing of all labor, materials, and equipment necessary for the work outlined below and as described in the specifications provided in subsequent sections: Restore the bell frames and other components of six (6) bells in the Hingham Memorial Bell Tower located at 68R Main Street, Hingham, MA 02043. Hingham’s Memorial Bell Tower houses 10 English Change Ringing Bells cast by the former Whitechapel Foundry in London. They were cast as direct copies of the bells contained in the bell tower in Hingham, England, the original home of many of this town’s early settlers. Change-ringing is an art. Bell ringers ring a set of tower bells in an intricate series of changes, or mathematical permutations (different orderings in the ringing sequence), by pulling ropes attached to wheels. The set of 10 English change - ringing bells are rung together as a single instrument. Skill, technique, timing and physical stamina, facilitated by well-maintained bells produce the unique music made by the bells. Due to age-related defects and deterioration, the bearings have worn out and the wheels do not rotate smoothly. Sliders, stays, and ropes break on a regular basis and render the bells unable to ring. The work needed will include replacing the bells’ headstocks, installing new wheels, and adding a bearing system that will make it easier for the bells to swing and will reduce the need for frequent oiling. In addition, the guide boxes for the ropes will be replaced to improve ease of handling.

Division 11 -

Equipment, Operation and Maintenance of Equipment, Musical Equipment, Bells.