Bell-Ringing and Raising at Old South This Weekend

This weekend the Old South Meeting House is installing an 1801 bell in its steeple, and celebrating that upgrade with a series of public events.

Friday, 14 October, 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.
Meet Paul Revere
The silversmith and Patriot was also an early industrialist whose firm cast the meeting-house’s new bronze bell in 1801. Learn about the art of bell-casting in early America, the history of that particular bell, and Revere’s famous ride. Free with museum admission.

Saturday, 15 October, 11:00 A.M.
Old South Ringers in Concert
The Old South Ringers, a handbell choir from Old South Church (the congregation that once worshiped at the Meeting House), will perform their music for visitors. Learn about the musical tradition that grew out of the rehearsals for church bell change-ringers in the 17th century. Free with museum admission.

Sunday, 16 October
A Bell-Raising Celebration
All the following events free and open to the public

11:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.
The last chance to see the bell up close before it goes to work, chiming the 1766 tower clock on the hour.

1:00 P.M.
Music and celebratory remarks from:

• Old South Church Choir
• Boston Landmarks Orchestra Brass Ensemble
• Back Bay Bell Ringers
• Boston Children’s Chorus
• Rev. James Crawford
• Hon. Thomas Menino

2:00 P.M.
A crane is scheduled to lift the bell up to the steeple as other public bells in Boston ring out. The meeting-house invites everyone to bring along their own bells and join the choir.