London's First Fire Bell

The importance of protecting the growing town of London, Ontario became clear, when in 1844 and 1845 major fires destroyed nearly 30 acres of property.  And so, in October 1848, London received its first fire bell, replacing a trumpet that had previously been used to sound the alarm.  The 700 pound bronze bell was ordered from A. Good of Buffalo, New York, and arrived in London after being on exhibit at the Buffalo New York fair.  The maker’s mark is cast on the outer rim along with the name of London’s Mayor, S. Morrill, Esq.  It is believed that the bell was later moved to the new City Hall around 1854, and is now in the Fanshawe Pioneer Village Permanent Collection.Jeanette Elliott, Collections Co-ordinator