Tredyffrin Easttown Historical Society
History Quarterly Digital Archives

Source: April 1985 Volume 23 Number 2, Page 62

A Memory of Sound

Elizabeth Rumrill

Page 62

One of the most cherished memories of my childhood days in Berwyn is the ringing of the Angelus - the beautiful bell in the tower of St. Monica's Church - at the top of "Zion's Hill" (as Mr. Quimby always called Main Avenue, once Church Avenue).

In the morning, at six and seven, at noon, and at six and seven in the evening the bell was rung by the bell-ringer, hanging on to the end of the bell rope. It was also tolled each time after a funeral service in the Church.

There is nothing that gives a village more character than the sound of a beautiful bell - one in perfect tune - a true note. Whether one recites the Angelus, or offers up a prayer to his Creator, the sound of a beautiful bell, regularly, is an inspiration which lifts up the spirit, no matter how menial the task at hand.

Recently there has been a revival in the art of bell-ringing - and many suddenly realize what has been missing in this age of speed and efficiency.