The Bell Hill Academy Bell
Every school has a story, and ours is beautifully told by the
Bell Hill Bell-
a cherished symbol of our community's enduring spirit and a journey
through nearly a century of sound and service!
It all began in 1876 when our community rallied together. The Board of Trustees put in $170 in silver, and local fundraising covered the rest to commission this special bell. Its original purpose? To help all the different schools in the area stay on a uniform time schedule. Cast with care at the Buckeye Bell Foundry in Cincinnati, it made its grand debut in 1877 at the Second Intermediate School. Legend has it, its powerful ring literally made the walls shake!
Over the years, our bell became quite the traveler and a vital part of our community:
1880: It moved into a portable belfry, ready for new adventures.
1900: The bell celebrated the opening of Grant School on Winchester Hill, marking a new chapter for the district.
1906: It returned home to the beautiful new two-story Bell Hill School, a constant presence in student life until the challenging years of World War II.
WWII: The bell took on a heroic new role at Washington School, sounding the alert for air raids – a true testament to its community service.
1947: It continued to serve, becoming the city's vital fire alarm.
1962: Thanks to a heartfelt fundraising circus by the local Lions Club, our beloved bell made its triumphant return. It was permanently placed in a proud monument right at our school's entrance.
While its ringing days are now behind it, after nearly a century of dutiful tolls, the Bell Hill Bell stands proudly today. It's a powerful and beautiful reminder of our school district's rich history and the strong community ties that have always defined us.