The old bell in the bell tower at Marvin’s Garden Park has been silent for years. In fact at the most recent Ballard District Council meeting, no one could recall it ringing regularly. The Ballard Historical Society wants to change that. The group has applied for a Small and Simple grant through the city to automate the bell and already has $18,000 in volunteer pledges.
This Saturday is the kickoff event for the “Bring the Ring Back” campaign. At 2:15 p.m. the bell will ring to celebrate Bertha Davis’ 97th birthday. As a lifelong Ballardite (who taught at Webster school for 50 years), she wants this project completed.
If the group gets funding to automate the bell, it can be programmed, for instance, to ring everyday at noon. The bell can also be used for special occasions such as the start of the 17th of May Parade, Seafood Fest and other community activities.
