Bell Ringing Chamber at Old North Church

cheybookworm (Atlas Obscura User)

The oldest set of change-ringing bells in North America, the bells at Old North Church sat mostly silent for their first five years in Massachusetts.

In 1745, eight brand new change-ringing bells arrived at Old North Church from England… but regular bell ringers were in short supply. That is until a 15-year-old boy approached the church with a proposal: pay him and his friends to ring the bells. This enterprising young lad succeeded in his proposal - he was none other than Paul Revere. Revere later used his knowledge of the height of the bell tower to formulate his plan for warning of the British troop’s arrival in 1775.

The entire tower is constructed to hold the weight of the bells and absorb the enormous sound of the giant gongs – otherwise, the bell ringers would become deaf much like Quasimodo.

Now, the bells are rung by the M.I.T. Guild of Bellringers, who study the highly mathematical patterns and techniques of “change ringing.” They are rung each Sunday after church services.

Know Before You Go

Guided tours of Old North’s bell-ringing chamber are available for $5 (children 5 and under are free). Visitors will learn about Old North’s famous bells, notable bell ringers, and the art of change ringing. Guests will also hear the story of the church’s three steeples and consider the paradox that the steeple represents. Steep stair climbing is required. Learn more on their website.