Bell

Item Description:
This is a vintage to antique cast iron bell, possibly a farm, school, or firehouse bell, likely manufactured in the late 19th to early 20th century. It features a fixed yoke (support arm) with a bolt mount for hanging, and a pull-ring attached by cord, indicating it was designed to be rung manually. The bell appears to be about 8 inches in diameter and weighs a little over 8 pounds. The surface shows oxidation and rust, consistent with its age and iron composition.

Identification and Authentication

• Material: The bell appears to be made of cast iron, possibly with a brass alloy clapper or internal hardware (though not visible in the photos).
• Form & Style: The yoke design and casting technique are typical of bells used in:
  • Farms/rural homesteads (as dinner or alert bells)
  • Schools (small rural schoolhouses)
  • Fire stations (early alarm signaling)
• Manufacturing Clues: While there are no visible markings, the overall form resembles bells produced by companies like C.S. Bell Co. of Hillsboro, Ohio, or American Bell Foundry Co., both prominent in the 1800s–early 1900s. Missing maker’s marks might be due to surface rust or wear.

Condition Assessment

• Condition: Fair
  • Surface: Heavy oxidation/rust but no major structural cracks visible.
  • Yoke: Intact, though some corrosion on the bolt and mount areas.
  • Ring: Still present and attached with rope.
• Functionality: If the internal clapper is intact, the bell may still ring clearly; otherwise, partial restoration would be needed.

Historical Context

Such bells were commonly mounted outside buildings and used to signal events (meals, danger, school start times, etc.). Their size and cast iron construction made them durable and functional even in harsh rural settings. Smaller bells like this one (under 10") were typically used for private or small institutional purposes rather than large civic ones.

Estimated Market Value

• As-Is Condition (Unrestored): $75 – $150
• If Professionally Restored (Cleaned & Repainted, Confirmed Working): $150 – $300

Factors that increase value:

• Identifiable maker’s mark
• Clear provenance
• Restored tone and ring quality
• Clean cast surface (minimal pitting)

Recommendations

1. Authentication: If you wish to pursue a definitive maker, lightly clean the bell with a soft brass brush and look for raised or indented lettering near the yoke or crown.
2. Appraisal: For insurance or resale at higher values, consider a professional appraisal from an antiques dealer or auction house familiar with Americana, architectural salvage, or farm memorabilia.
3. Selling Venues:
   • eBay (Antiques → Architectural & Garden → Bells)
   • Etsy (for vintage decor collectors)
   • Local antique shops or farm-themed auctions