Bells to Chime Again!

At a special assembly of the St. Mark's Congregation on February 11, 2007, following the 10:30 service, the congregation unanimously approved a proposal from Chime Master Systems, Inc. of Lancaster Ohio, to replace the defunct control system for our tower bells with a 2108 Cast Bell Controller. The cost of $11,995, will be paid from funds that have been given to the church for the care and maintenance of its musical instruments.

The present system has been completely inoperable for some time, and our wonderful set of 10 real cast bells is not being heard.

The proposed system is a vast improvement, with up-to-date technology, and with a 5 year warranty as well. It will enable the playing of hymns from its vast library, as well as allowing us to program in other hymns not in its library, do hour chimes when desired, tolling for funerals, peals for celebrations, etc. It will have a small keyboard for manual operation, and a remote control to initiate operation from the organ console or any other desired spot. Other convenient features include battery backup, power surge protection, solenoid protection, and internal calendars for handling the spring and fall time changes. All we will see is one black metal box in the balcony containing the microchip electronics. The new keyboard will be housed in the present wooden case in the balcony.

Installation would be 4-5 months after signing the contract.

The bells were originally purchased from the Verdin Bell company of Cincinnati and were installed by Brannaka Welding Company of Williamsport. in October of 1959.  Until the recent maintenance problems, the bells could be heard throughout the downtown area of Williamsport.  The replacement system will again allow St. Mark's make its presence known through the beauty of its chiming bells.