THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES THE €\m(\ §dls of llorfolk WHERE, WHEN, AND BY WROM THEY WERE MADE WITH THE INSCRIPTIONS ON ALL THE BELLS IN THE COUNTY. BY JOHN L'ESTEANGE. ILLITSTRATET) WITH NINE PLATES AND SIXTY WOODCUTS. Ilublisbcb h\j .^ubstriptioit. NORWICH: PRINTED BY MILLER AND LEAVINS, RAMPANT HOESE STREET. 1874. TO JOHN ROBERT DANIEL-TYSSEN, ESQ., F.S.A., THESE NOTES OX THE CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK ARE MOST RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED BY THE COMPILER. 71.89653 P E E F A C E . To collect the inscriptions from nearly two thousand bells, distributed amongst seven hundred churches, was a task which, with my limited leisure, I could not have accomplished unless I had received great assistance. At a very early stage of my labours, John Eobert Daniel-Tyssen, Esq., and Amhurst Daniel-Tyssen, Esq., the Eev. J. J. Eaven, d.d., and the Eev. John Henry Sperling placed their collections, not only for Norfolk but for other counties, at my disposal. The Eev. J. A. Ogle of Sedgeford copied for me the inscriptions on the church bells of his rural deanery, and the Eev. Morton Dulley of Barnby, a number of those in his neighbourhood. To these and to other gentlemen who communicated the inscriptions on the bells of their own parish churches my hearty thanks are due, as likewise in a very special manner to Mr. T. E. Tallack, who devoted the summer of 1869 to obtaining the inscriptions from the bells of a large number of churches which, on account of the difficulty of access, had been passed over by previous collectors. It will be readily understood that in a col- lection of inscriptions thus formed and moreover frequently PREFACE. transcribed, 8ome, nay, I fear many, errors have crept in, despite all attempts at literal accuracy, which often, owing to the ignorance or carelessness of the bell-founders, have made matters apparently worse. I gladly take this oj^portunity to thank those gentle- men who have given me information during the pro- gress of this work ; among whom I would especially mention G. W. Marshall, Esq., Justin Simpson, Esq., W. C. Boulter, Esq., A. North, Esq., Mr. J. Calver, Mr. T. G. Bayfield, the Eev. W. C. Lukis, the Rev. II. T. Ellacombe, and the Eev. J. T. Fowler. I should be indeed ungrateful were I to omit to ac- knowledge the kindness of the Eev. James Bulwer, m.a., who not onl)" read and corrected the copy, but also the proofs of the first part of this book. Mr. James Mottram gave me his table of the dedications of Norfolk churches, which I have used at p. 14, and rendered me great assistance by collating my list with Ecton's Thesaurus Rerum Ecclesiastlcarmn. I hope I shall be excused for mentioning here that in the following pages a fuller and more accurate list of the dedications of Norfolk churches is given than can be found in any one book, or indeed in all the books which have noticed this subject. My authorities are principally the Wills preserved in the Registry at Norwich, but I have not thought it necessary to incumber my pages with references to them. My best thanks are also due to Dr. Bensly, Secretary of the Lord Bishop of Norwich and Deput}^ Eegistrar of the Diocese, for continuing to me the privilege of access to the documents in his custody that I enjoyed under his lamented predecessor, John Kitson, Esq. ; also to W. L. Mendham, Esq., Town Clerk of the City of PREFACE. Norwich, for permission to search the Corporation ar- chives ; and to the Clergy and Chnrchwardons of the various parishes whose records I have examined. For my woodcuts I am mainly indebted to John Eobert Daniel-Tyssen, Esq., f.s.a. ; but I have also to thank the Eev. H. T. Ellacombe, m.a., f.s.a., for the loan of several blocks, and for stereotypes of many others. I am also indebted for similar acts of kindness to the Eev. James Bulwer, m.a., Eobert Fitch, Esq., f.g.s., f.s.a., and Llewellyn Jewitt, Esq., f.s.a. Further, I have to thank the Eev. G. W. W. Minns and Eichard Hewlett, Esq., for the illustrations of tlie Ketteringham and Great Plumstead bell inscriptions respectively drawn by them- selves ; and E. A. Tillett, Esq., and Walter Eye, Esq., for the plates of the St. Giles', Norwich, and Cromer bell inscriptions. In conclusion, I feel that I owe an apology to my subscribers for the delay which has taken place in the appearance of these Notes. When I issued my circular soliciting their names in December, 1864, I had no idea that there was so much work to be done, or that my inclination to do it would decline in the same ratio as my opportunities. However, I have little doubt that even those who are interested will think Sat cito, si sat bene. C0RRECTI02s"S. Page 43, lino 7 from foot, for/;. 9 rcad^. 12. 46, line 12, for T. B. read /. I). 85, lino 11 from foot, for Gayton road Gcnjtoii Tliorpe. 85, last line, for mbcilbitj read mtcililij. 88, line 2 from foot, for 1647 road 1674. 132, line 3, for Omniptens read Omnipotetis. 155, line 27, for villain read villein. 155, line 29, for villanage read villcnagc. 193, line 29, for 4. + : : DVS read 4. + O : : = = DVS. 206, after Sajjton S. Helen, add 1. 208, line 22, after the words "of the old church" read dedicated to Blessed Virgin Man/. 0ntts m Mb anir Btll^jfotmiJtrs. INTRODUCTION. ^'OT haying any facts to add to, nor any fresli inferences to 12)-^ draw from, tlie stores of information regarding the origin of Bells, and the date of their introduction into the Christian temple, I propose to pass over this part of the suhject without further notice ; a course I the more readily adopt, because those who may desire such information will have no difficulty in ob- taining it from any encyclopaedia. The object of these pages is to record the Inscriptions on the Bells of the Norfolk Churches ; to show by whom, at what time, and in what place they were cast ; and by illustrations to convey, to those who rarely if ever ascend a belfry, some idea of the beauty and diversity of the bell-founders' alphabets, marks, and devices. Thus, it is hoped, some slight indication will be afforded of the religious feeling and the state of art and society at various periods of English history. The bells existing are the principal source whence it can' be hoped to obtain the materials required for carrying out this object. But here a difEculty arises ; the number of ancient bells remaining is comparatively small, and this number becomes yearly less. Out of an aggregate of 1500 bells, the proportion cast before the accession of Queen Elizabeth is about one in six,^ 1 In some localities the early bells have been better preserved than in others. The proportion of old bells in "West Norfolk is much less than in the eastern division of the county. In seventeen Marshland churches, out of a total of seventy-two bells, there are only tvro anterior to the year 1550. B 2 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. and, small as this may appear, NorfoEc is richer in old bells than other counties. In Sussex, for instance, there is not more than one in ten ; ^ in Wilts, about one in nine. ^ Several causes operate to produce this scarcity of early bells. In the first place, there is the ordinary wear and tear of ages, and it has been stated, "that all bells must, from their crystalline nature, sooner or later become cracked, even though they might last five hundred years before the failure took place." ^ If to this fair wear and tear be added the unfair usage to which bells are fre- quently subjected, and the unforeseen accidents which happen in ringing, &c., there is assuredly no difiiculty in accounting for this comparative rareness of old bells. Change- ringing has also con- tributed in another way, and to a considerable extent, in reducing their number. Peals of bells, before ringing became the science it now is, consisted of fewer and generally heavier bells than is the case at the present day. To adapt these peals to the requirements of modern change-ringing, it was indispensable that the number of bells should be increased, and in some instances this was efiected in a manner of which no one can complain, simply by adding smaller bells. In this wa}^ the peals at Alburgh, St. Michael Coslany and St. Giles, Norwich, grew up by degrees from four to eight, and St. Peter Mancroft, Norwich, from five to ten bells. But in too many cases the increase was efiected in a difierent and more economical manner. The old peals of three, four, five, or six, were recast into or exchanged for lighter peals of more bells, the surplus metal going a considerable way towards the abatement of the bell-founders' charges. At St. Gregory's, Norwich, five ancient bells were recast into a light peal of six in 1818. At Bio Norton and Hedenham, peals of five and six have, within the last eighty years, replaced peals of three and four, and there is evidence that many other peals cast in the - The Church Bells of Sussex. By Amherst Daniel-Tyssen, Esq. Le'vres: Bacon, 1864. 3 An Account of Church Bells. By the Eev. "W. C. Lulds, M.A. London : Parker, 1857. ■* Papers read at the Institute of British Ai-chitects, 1855, p. 63. CAUSES OF THE SCARCITY OF EARLY BELLS. 6 seventeenth, eighteenth, and present centuries, supplanted heavier although fewer bells. ^ Another favourite plan of remodelling a peal was to take away one or more of the larger bells and add smaller ones. Thus, at St, Martin at Palace, Norwich, in 1672, the tenor to three bells was taken away and the peal increased to five ; and at Fundenliall, the second and third bells of a similar peal were recast into four with the old treble for a tenor. At Banham, the black-letter peal of five was despoiled of its tenor and two small bells were added, the others being chipped to bring them into tune. Another cause, which must have contributed to some if not indeed to a considerable extent to produce this scarcity, was the spoliation of Church property which took place about the middle of the six- teenth century. It has been however too hastily concluded, from the inventories of the church goods taken in the 6tli Edward VI., that only one bell, or at the most, in large parishes, two bells, were allowed to remain to the use of the parish. But the Royal Commission of 16th January, 6th Edward VL, expressly states that the great bells and saints' bells were to remain until the king's pleasure was made known concerning the same. The object of the Commissions was to prevent unlicensed sales by the parishioners, or unlawful appropriations of church goods by the lords of manors, &c. Sir Henry Spelman boars witness to the spoliation of bells at this period. He says, " When I was a child (I speak of about threescore years since), I heard much talk of the pulling down of bells in every part of my country, the county of Norfolk, then common in memory : and the sum of the sj)eech usually was, that in sending them over sea, some were drowned in one haven, some in another, as at Ljom, Wells, or Yarmouth, I dare not venture upon particulars ; for that I then hearing it as a child, regarded 5 In some instances, liowcver, the peals -were not only increased in number but also in weight. The celebrated peal of St. Peter Mancroft, Norwich, is a case in point, the old peal with a tenor bell weighing only 24 cwt. was replaced by the present peal of twelve bells, the tenor weighing 41 cwt. The peals at Yarmouth St, Nicholas, Lynn St. Margaret, East Dereham, and Diss, are also instances of these changes, but still the loss of old bells was the same. B 2 4 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL- FOUNDERS. it as a child. But the truth of it was lately discovered b}' God Himself ; for that in the year .... He sending such a dead neap (as they call it) as no man living was known to have seen the like, the sea fell so far back from the land at Hunstanton, that the people going much further to gather oysters than they had done at any time before, they there found a bell ^\ith the mouth upward, sunk into the ground to the very brim. They carried the news thereof to Sir Hamon L'Estrange, Lord of the town and of wreck and sea-rights there, who shortly after sought to have weighed up and gained the bell ; but the sea never since going so far back, they hitherto could not find the place again. This relation I received from Sir Hamon L'Estrange himself, being my brother- in-law." "^ Parkin says, that at East Barsham there is " one bell dedi- cated to St. Thomas . . . Here were formerly several bells which being taken out of the church, and put on shipboard, were lost (as is said) on Himstanton sands." "^ Turning, from what may perhaps be regarded as mere report, to the undeniable evidence of contemporary records, we find no reason to suppose that Sir Henry Spelman, in his zeal, over- stated the facts. In the inventory, indented, made between the E.oyal Commissioners on the one part, and the parishioners of Bodham on the other part, in the 6th Edward YL, it appears that there was onl}' one bell in the steeple weighing 2 cwt., but " that ij belles ware carryed away by S"^ Hugh Elye and AVilliam Faconer and Rychard Coste to S'' Frannces .... knyght, we^-eing by est}Tnacj'-on viii*^, and this was done in the xxxviij'^ yere of Kyng Henry the viij'"' w"'out the consent of the pishSs." The Tottenhill Inventory mentions " that the belles in the steaple were stolen in Seynt Yalentynes even, the xiij daye of Februar}^, A° v'' E. vj'V At Framingham Pigot there was no bell at the date of the inventory (1552) ; and it states, "that ij bells wer stollen abowght iij yeres past." At Holt, two bells, weighing ^ The Ristonj and Fate of Sacrileje,^). '2o%. London: Masters, 1853. '' Topograplucal Histor'j of the County of Ko)foll;. By Blomeficld and Parkin, vol. iii., fo. ed., p. 766. SPOLIATION OF BELLS IN THE SIXTEENTH CENTURY. O over 22 cwt., and at Cley, three bells, weighing 28 1 cwt., had been delivered by the consent of the townships to my Lord of Rutland. At Hilborough, there was one bell estimated to weigh 14 cwt., " the other two remayneth in the hands of the lord, y* is to say S' Edmond knevet, now depted." At Dilham, at Ingham, and at Wighton, the parishioners had in each case sold a bell, and instances might be multiplied to weariness. In the articles to be enquired of in the Yisitation kept within the diocese of Norwich in 1556 by Bishop Hopton, is the following : " Itm yowe shall enquire of all such as haue taken anye thinge from yower church, as in pullinge downe of Icadf both from the Bodie of the church, and from the Chauncell, takeinge away of Bellis, roode loftf, or anye other Ornamentf perteyninge vnto yower saied church," &c. On the 19th September, 1560, a royal proclamation was issued forbidding the defacing of monuments or the taking away of bells or lead, and the queen, says Sir Henry Spelman, "caused many proclamations not only to be printed, but signed them also with her own hand, and sent them in that manner (the more to manifest her zeal and restrain the sacrilege) about into the counties." ^ This proclamation states that " the covetousness of certain persons is such, that as patrons of churches, or owners of the parsonages unappropriated, or by some other colour or pretence, they do persuade with the parson or parishioners to take, or throw downe the Bells of the churches and chapels, and the lead of the same, to their private gain, and to the spoil of the said places."^ Enough, however, has been said to shew that the " much talk of pulling down of bells " was no idle gossip. Between this period and the Bestoration there is no evidence of any considerable amount of spoliation having taken place. The cases met with are clearly isolated instances, occurring where the churches themselves were demolished or allowed to fall into ruin.^^ In 1562, the church of St. Martin in the Baily, Norwich, was sold to the queen, and Blomefield prints a letter from the Bishop 8 TJie History and Fate of Sacrilege, p. 261. 9 The Church Bells of Sussex, p. 20. '" The chiu'ches dilapidated during the reign of Elizabeth were not few in number. 6 NOTES ON JJELLS AND 15ELL- FOUNDERS. of Winchester to tlic Mayor, dated Stli December, 15G4, informing him that the " Church and the Church-3'ard is solde, and the Bells ^ and Lecd reservyd for the Quene."- In 15G4, the parish church of St, Mary in the Marsh was desecrated, and the lead, bells, &c., reserved to the use of the Dean and Chapter of Norwich.^ In 1569, the Dean and Chapter agreed to supply Clement Past on, Esq., with as much bell-metal at twenty-eight shillings per cwt., and as much lead at £8. lOs. per ton, as would amount to two hundred pounds.^ The Corporation of Korwich, in the 40th Elizabeth, sold all the beUs of St. Etheldred's church but one.^ From 1640 to 1660, the churches suffered much, nor did the bells escape. It does not appear that any were removed from the towers, but more than a dozen old bells still remain, the inscrip- tions upon which have been either entirely or in part cut off. At Bressingham, three old bells are thus mutilated, and the parish accoimt books show that this was done in 1644.^ At the neigh- bouring church of South Lopham there are also three bells similarly treated ; of the inscription upon the fifth bell the only word left is YOCOPv. At West Bradenham, of the inscription -\- FtrCjintS rrjrcgttjc bo cor Campana iHaric, the initial cross and the words Virginis and Marie have been obliterated. At St. Michael Coslany, Norwich, the word ** ©ta/' and at Cossey and Tivetshall, names of the saints only, have been erased.''' On bells cast after the middle of the 16th century it might be expected that there could be nothing objectionable ; but at Stow Bardolph two of the bells, the third and the sixth, respectively inscribed, (+) non ve(rh)o sed (v)oce (r)eso(na)bo (d)o(mi)n(i) la(yd)e(m) 1601, and (ca)e(lor)v(m) chr(i)sti (i')laceat tib(i) 1 There were two bells in the 6th Edward VI. estimated to weigh 5 cwt. 2 Blomefield, vol. ii., p. 573. 3 Elomefield, vol. ii., p. 525. * Ledger Book 3, fo. 38, b. Penes Dec. et Capit. Xorw. 5 Blomefield, vol. ii., p. 541. s Blomefield, vol. i., p. 46, note e. ■' Other examples are at Tharston, Wacton, and Pulham St. Marj' the Virgin, Norfolk ; Market Weston and Ixworth, Suffolk. SALE OF BELLS BY FACULTIES. 7 re(x) (s)ono (i)st(e) 1G12, have many of the letters filed oiF.^ The third bell has suffered more, perhaps, because it had the ad- ditional enormity of an initial cross. Another cause which contributed in no slight degree to the present scarcity of old bells was this : as the churches fell into decay in rural districts, where the parishioners were unable or unwilling to bear the entire charge of the repairs, they petitioned the bishop to grant them his license, or faculty, to empower them to reduce the fabrics ; in one case to demolish an aisle, sometimes two ; in another, to desecrate a chapel or pull down a porch, and in others, to shorten the tower or take down the spire. And in- stances are on record in which the total destruction of a church was authorised. More generally, the petitioners thought only of selling the lead of the roof, or some of the bells, and of applying the money so raised towards the necessary repairs. The reasons assigned in these petitions to sell the bells, &c., are various, and frequently frivolous. In 1734, Lord Townshend gave the parishioners of Rainham St. Mary £100 towards the repairs of the church, which however amounted to £200. To assist them in raising the balance, leave was asked to sell the three lesser of their four bells, which they represented could be well spared. The Bishop, willing to encourage others to such generous deeds, granted the necessary permission. The peal of three bells at West Harling was by the liberality of Joshua Draper recast into five in 1726. Thirty years later, the parish- ioners made this an excuse for selling four of them, representing to the bishop that formerly there were but three bells and now five, and that the steeple was too weak to supj^ort five bells, they therefore craved leave to sell four of them, and to take down the spire and tower and rebuild the latter without the spire. The parishioners of Alby, in 1767, after the usual preamble of their church being " a very antient fabrick," crave leave to seU the two smallest of their three bells, " as they are of little use, being so small, and the church at a distance from the houses." The church- yard of St. Stephen, Norwich, being too small, an additional 8 These are shown enclosed in parentheses. 8 NOTES OX HELLS AM) BELL-FOUNDEKS. piece of ground was purchased in 1791, and the parishioners ob- tained a faculty to sell four of their five bells towards defraying the expense. One very general reason given for the sale of the bells was, that the towers were too weak to carry them, and, judging from the number of instances wliich have happened of the fall of towers, or of the necessity to rebuild them, there seems to have been some foundation for sucli assertions. Yery frequently, if a parish possessed a cracked bell, any necessary rejjairs of more than the usual annual expense were considered sufficient grounds for an application to the bishop for permission to sell it, and sometimes other bells, although sound, were included in the faculty on the pretence of their being " useless." ^ A record of these licenses is preserved to the present time from about 1677, and it appears that over 200 were granted from that date to 1840, authorizing the sale or recasting, in round numbers, of nearly 450 bells. A considerable number, however, of these were cracked, and would have been sooner or later recast had no faculty been obtained. ^° In the latter half of the eighteenth century (from 1753 to 1802) great havoc was made with the bells, 119 faculties having been granted. From the commencement of the present century to 1840, the number has been happily much reduced; indeed only twenty-nine have been issued; whilst during the last twenty-five years not a single faculty has been granted authorizing the sale of church bells. This may be partly due to the better feeling which has arisen "svith regard to our churches, although in part it must be attributed to the fact that, in many ^ Thus, at Trimingham, two useless bells, one being cracked, the other unhung ; at Crostvvick, one split and another useless, not having a clapiocr ; and at ^Testwick, one being split and another never used, were sold by faculty : these are selected from numerous instances. '" It is difficult to ascertain the precise number of cracked bells : no great error will be made if they be taken at about one-half. For instance, out of thirty-three faculties or orders granted from 1677 to 1736, a period of fifty-nine years, authorizing the sale of fifty-two and the recasting of ten bells, twenty-eight bells M'ere said to be split. During the next sixteen years, from 1737 to 1753, thirty-three faculties also were granted, permitting the sale of fifty-seven and the recasting of five bells, and of this number twenty-eight also were cracked. CHARACTER OF THE ANCIENT INSCRIPTIONS. 9 instances, bells have been sold without a formal faculty, indeed in some cases without even obtaining the verbal permission of the ordinary. It is not to be supposed that all the bells which have been thus sold were ancient, but of course the number of old bells amongst them was greater in proportion than amongst those now remaining. Of the St. Peter Mancroft peal of ten bells, dispersed in 1775, four were old. A peal of three hlack-kttcr bells at Bio Norton were recast in 1794, and at St. Gregory's, Norwich, a similar peal of five remained until 1818.^ Three of the five bells at St. John's Maddermarket, Norwich, recast in 1765 — 82, were old. St. Paul's, Norwich, and Brandon Parva, each possessed peals of three ancient bells : at the present day there is only one at either place. A more accurate notion of the extent of the loss of ancient bells during the last one hundred and twenty or one hundred and thirty years may be formed from the fact, that of nearly 150 bells of which Blomefield and his continuator make mention and have printed the inscriptions, two-thirds only remain. Turning, however, to such ancient bells as yet remain, it will be found that the inscriptions upon them do not give very espKcit answers to the questions, at what time, at what place, and by whom the bells were cast ; for they are rarely dated, ^ and all that is usually to be learned from them is the name of the saint or patron to whom the bells are dedicated. There are,, however, about a score of ancient bells in Norfolk which are inscribed with the names of the bell-founders. Thus at Salle and Trunch are or were bells respectively inscribed, EDMUNDUS DE LENNE ME FECIT. THOMAS DE LENNE ME FECIT. And on bells at Ketteringham and Trimingham will be found, iaicartius iSaxter Brasger ©e j^orinico jFccit JHr. 1 It is believed there ia not a church in the county which now possesses more than four bells cast before the middle of the sixteenth centmy. - In the county of Sussex there are only four bells dated previous to 1570, and in Norfolk the only bells, yet met with, bearing a date anterior to the accession of Queen Elizabeth, are, the bell at Salhouse, dated 1481 ; a small bell on the cloister roof of St. Giles's Hospital, Norwich, lo47 ; and another at Islington, dated 1556. C 10 NOTES ON BELLS AND DELL-FOLNUERS. Some few bells hand down the names of their donors — for instance, one at Long Stratton St. Mary : JESU EN LE HON DE TOI SIRE JON STVRMIN FIT FERE MOI THOMAS MADE ME. So also the bell at Ilellesdon : JOHNES DE HEYLESDON ME FECIT FIERI IN HONORE ALVTRIS CRESTI WILELLMUS DE NORAVYCO ME FECIT. The tenor bell at the cathedral church of Norwich has on its crown— ©rate ^xo ^la 3i\oIjrrtt Brctjcnljam iHonar|)i jj^OrtOici, Bells such as these are not only interesting in them- selves, but are also valuable as affording data from which a very large number of other bells can be appropriated to their respective founders or foundries. Before the commencement of the fifteenth centurj', distinctive foundry marks were rarely emploj^ed, and we have only the lettering, initial crosses, and stojjs to guide us in appropriating bells which do not bear a founder's name. After 1400, however, most bell-founders had a mark or stamp which they usual- ly placed on their bells. Thus the mark of Thomas Potter, a Nor- wich bell-founder about 1400, was a three-legged pot ; and Eichard Bras- yer, who succeeded him about fifty years later, placed on the crowns of his bells three shields, each charged with a coronet between three bells. These marks are of the greatest assistance in clearing up the history of ancient bells ; indeed in that respect they stand next to the founders' names. Even those marks which are not appro- priated to a name have their value, for whilst the lettering, crosses, and stops, are difficult to describe in a manner to assure VALUE OF BELL-FOUNDERS MARKS. 11 identification, foundry marks are at once recognised and readily described. Thus tlie accurate classification of very many bells is rendered easy, whilst with bells bearing no foundry mark this can be accomplished only by a comparison of the minute details of each ornament.^ One instance will suffice. There are about a dozen bolls in Norfolk inscribed in the usual black letter of the sixteenth century bearing this unappropriated mark. Con- jecture was at fault as to the locality in which thej^ were cast, until it became known that bells bearing this stamp, which admits of ready description, were numerous in Suf- folk and less frequent in the adjacent counties of Cambridge, Essex, and J^orfolk. The inference of course is, that in those days of difficult locomotion the foundry at which they were cast was in the neigh- bourhood where they most abound. The later marks occa- sionally indicate in another way where the bells were cast ; the mark alluding to or consisting of the arms of the town where the bell- founder lived. On bells at Toft Monks and Tharston, in addition to the usual shields used by Richard Brasyer, are the arms of the city of Norwich, which were also employed by AYilliam Brend and Edward Tooke, his successors in the seventeenth century. 5 Keeping this in luiiul, I have chosen for iUustration in these pages not perhaps the most heautifiil examples of letters on Norfolk bells, but rather those which were used by founders employing no distinctive mark. c 2 12 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDEKS. Stephen Tonni, a bell-founder at Bury in the latter half of the sixteenth cen- tury, and Robert Gurney, a century later, used a crown pierced with two arrows in saltire, the arms of Bury. It is to the bells, no doubt, that we must first refer for their own history ; but the evidence from documents, such as parochial and corporate records, wills and testaments, deeds and endowments, &c., is of the highest value, and any account of church bells must be very imperfect if both kinds of evidence be not consulted. Church accounts contribute more towards the elucidation of their history than any other documents ; but, un- fortunately, very few churchwardens' accoiuit-books remain, of a date anterior to the accession of King Edward VI, ; and although some few account rolls of the officers of our ancient conventual and collegiate establishments have been preserved, it is rare indeed to meet with a series of entries sufficiently numerous to be of much use. The foregoing facts shewing the sources whence the information contained in these pages is derived, wiU probably also lessen any surprise that may be felt that the account which can be given of the bells and bell-founders of Norfolk, prior to the accession of Queen Elizabeth, is so meagre. After that period bells are almost alwaj'S dated, and bear the bell-founder's name or initials ; so that with the documentary aid just mentioned a much more complete and satisfactor}'' account can be given of them. The general character of early bell inscriptions has been briefly referred to ; before, however, closing these introductory remarks it may be well to notice them somewhat more in detail, and to inquire into a few circumstances which illustrate their origin. The early inscriptions, most frequently in Latin, seldom in English, and still more seldom in Norman French, from their position* and other causes, are necessarily brief, and on examination frequent repetitions will be found. In Norfolk, out * The usual place for the inscription is upon the shoulder, but it will sometimes be also found upon the crown of the bell. The early inscriptions are in capitals, and black letter was not introduced on bells till the commencement of the fifteenth centuiy. PATRON SAINTS OP BELLS. 13 of two hundred and fifty mediaeval bells, the names of saints inscribed upon them barely number thirty. But it must not be inferred that there is not a greater variety of inscriptions : for instance, of bells dedicated to the Holy Trinity there are eight various epigraphs, whilst in the case of the Blessed Virgin Mary there are no fewer than fourteen. The most usual dedication is to the Virgin Mary, — more than a fifth of the whole number being dedicated in her honour. Next, but at some distance, follows St. Gabriel, the archangel, to whom about twenty bells are in- scribed. To St. Michael are dedicated about half that number. The name of St. Haphael occurs but twice, once on a bell by itself, and once in company with the names of SS. Michael and Gabriel. St. John Baptist stands next to St. Gabriel, but some of the inscriptions do not distinguish between the Baptist and the Evangelist. I should however suppose that St. John the Baptist is generally intended, as it seems more fitting that the name of the herald of the Gospel — of one who was a voice " crying in the wilderness Prepare ye the way of the Lord " — should be preferred. Nearly twenty bells are inscribed with the name of St. Peter, but it is remarkable that the name of his fellow-apostle, St, Paul, who is frequently associated with him in the dedication of churches, has not yet been met with on a single bell in Norfolk. About twenty bells are dedicated to the glory of Almighty God, half of that number bearing the name of the Holy Trinity, seven or eight that of our Blessed Saviour, and the others that of God the Father. SS. Thomas, Mary Magdalen, Margaret, All Saints, Katharine, Andrew, Barbara, Nicholas, and Anne, have from half a dozen to a dozen bells dedicated to each of them, whilst St. Anthony has but two, and SS. Gregory, Giles, Matthew, William, Benedict, and Lucy, have but one. ** SauctC iHattiUC '* occurs on the crown of a bell which also bears an inscription in honour of Saint Margaret. It has been supposed that the tenor bell was usually dedicated to the patron saint of the church. Although there are instances of this practice, examples may be named where all the old bells remain, yet none bear the same name as the church ; Burlingham St. Andrew, Burlingham St. Peter, Norwich St. Giles, and Ipswich 14 NOTES ON HELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. St. Laurence are examples. Instances are also found in which the name of the patron saint of the church appears on one of the smaller bells, as on the treble at St. George's Tombland, and in the old peals of five at St. Gregory's and St. Peter's Mancroft, Norwich. It might be supposed that the same causes which led to the selection of particular saints as patrons of so many churches, would have influenced the dedications of the bells, so that some correspondence might bo discovered between them. Three-fourths of the jSTorfolk churches are dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, All Saints, SS. Peter and Paul, Andrew, Margaret, and Michael. The churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary alone amount to more than one-fifth of the whole number, and it has been already men- tioned that bells bearing her name have been met with in the same proportion. After the Virgin Mary, All Saints was most frequently chosen for chiu'ches ; but it is not so with bells, not so many as one-fifth of the number bearing the name of the Virgin are dedicated to All Saints. There are eighty churches in Norfolk dedicated to St. Andrew, and but fifty to St. Margaret, yet there are more bells dedicated to the latter than to the former saint. If, however, it be borne in mind that our churches were founded many centuries before the earliest bells now remaining were made, and that popular devotion in the course of ages probably in part changed and was directed to other saints, it will not be matter of surprise either to find the names of saints to whom very few churches are dedicated occurring frequently on bells, or that others, who have several churches dedicated to them, are seldom or not at all met with on church bells. Por instance, St. Laurence, St. Botolph, and St. James, have each about ten churches in this county dedicated in their honour, but not one bell. On the other hand, twenty-seven bells bearing the names of St. John the Baptist or St. John the Evangelist have been found, and there are only twenty-four churches dedicated to them in the county; and the name of St. Gabriel, who has not one church dedicated to him in Norfolk, is found on Uvice as many bells as that of St. Michael, to whom thirty-seven churches are dedicated. The Pev. J. H. Sperling has suggested that the dedications of the altars maj have influenced those of the bells, EXAMPLES OF ANCIENT INSCRirXIONS. 15 and finds upon examination a considerable balance in favour of altars and bells similarly dedicated. The parish guilds may also have influenced the dedications of bells, for example at Brandestoue there was a bell dedicated to St. William (of Norwich), a most unusual circumstance, but it is explained by our knowing that there was a guild in the parish in his honour. The bells at Foulsham and Salhouse, the gifts respectively of guilds of the Holy Trinity and Corpus Christi, were also no doubt therefore thus dedicated. We learn from Blomefield (vol. i. p. 277), that at Eccles church, in the north chancel window, were pictures of SS. Germanus, Anthony, and Benedict, and under them, ^aiTftUS CSrrmanus, I3catc ^ntoni, ora pro noliis. Thetford St. Cutlibert et Trinity. Con Thoma' Draper for that ho kccpeth not with his wife, but remayneth w"' his mother, and so have contynewed a quarter of a yeare nowe last past. — Zibcr Tisitat. Epi. Xoric, 1597. ^ 29 Aug., 42 Eliz. John Draper of Thetford, Norfolk, bellfounder, and Margaret Draper of the same, widow, agree with John William.'on, yeoman, and Tho* "Wade, linenweaver, both of North Lopham, in the said County, to weigh and take the just weight of the second bell belonging to the church of St. Andrew, X. Lopham ; and after the true weight thereof taken, to new melt and cast again the said bell, making it fit, tunable, perfect, sound, and answerable according to the science of music unto the other thi-ee bells hanging in the steeple of the said church, for the sum of four marks, and a fuither allowance of foiu: pence for every pound more than the present •weight, or a deduction at the same rate for every pound less. AVarranty for one year and a day. — Koics and Queries, second series, xii. p. 208. 46 NOTES ON BELLS AND 15ELL-F0UNDERS. bells having anytliing more than John Draper t^iade me upon them, generally in E-oman letters. Moreover, he seldom employs a foundry-mark, only once or twice using his father's crown and arrows, and some- times a stamp of his own, a bell between his initials. It has already been mentioned that John Draper's initials and those of John Brend of IN^orwich are found together, nameh*, on bells at Hindolveston and Great ^Vitcliing- ham. At "Worlington, Suffolk, on a bell dated 1614, the initials T. D. occur with those of J. Edburi ; whilst at Lidgate and Hinderclay, 1621, Draper's initials are found with those of Andrew Gurne}' ; and at Thurston, 1630, their names occur on the first and second bells. The third bell at Bildeston, Suffolk, was cast by them in 1624, as appears from the churchwardens' accounts of that parish.^ It apjDcars that in 1606, John Draper recast in the parish of Wells the third bell of Beeston church, which place is not nearer Beeston than Thetford. He may have had other work at Wells at that time, or he may have fixed his foimdry there before he permanently settled at Thetford. The first and fifth bells at Great Shelford, Cambridgeshire, dated 1618, are both similarly lettered; one bears John Draper's name as its founder, the other is in- scribed, **matlC at CamiritlgC; " and there are other bells in Cambridgeshire, probably cast b}- him at the same time and place. These facts, and his name being found associated with those of several other founders, leave little or no doubt that he was an itinerant bell-founder. After 1638 I have met with only two of John Draper's bells, and in 1644 he died. His will, made in his last illness, is neither signed, sealed, nor fully dated, but was proved 1st November, 1644, by Elizabeth Draper, his widow. He disposes of his foundry, &c., as follows : — " I will give and bequeath unto Elisabeth my wife my hous I ' Xotes and Queries, second scries, vol. vi., p. 222. THE EAST DEREHAM FOUNDRY. 47 nowc dwell in with my littell mcltinge lious and the ycarde from the corner of the dwelling house wall just up to the littell melting hous wall also terme of her life I give unto Elisabeth my wife the other part of the yearde and great worke hous stable and all my moulds and toyels and bellowes and all my hous hould stuffe of what kinde soever to paye my detes and to paye my dauter Sara Draper the some of thre pounds of lawfull Inglish monye within one year after my deceas and after my wifes deceas my will that my hous that I nowe dwell in shall be soulde and the monj^e to bo equallye devided bitwin my fewer Children Thomas Abegall Elisabeth and John Draper or soe manj'e of them as shall be then livinge also I macke my wife my sole exectr and my brother John Brend ^ of Norwich suprevisor of this my last will and teastment and doe giue him for his paynes xx\ In wittnes wherof I have set to my hande and seall the day of 1G44.- Witli John Draper's death it is believed the Thetford foundry was given up and became extinct. The bells cast at the Norwich and Stamford foundries, are, after 1644, met with in West Norfollc and the immediate neiG:hbourhood of Thetford. EAST DEEEEAM FOUNDRY, 1756—1760. Joseph Mallows, who probably left the Norwich foundry on its extinction about 1753, cast bells at this town for a few years, in a yard which until lately bore his name. His earliest work seems to have been a treble bell, dated 1756, added to the five bells removed from West Harling, which he then put up in Caston steeple. Other bells of his foundry are at Brooke, Clenchwarton, Hethersett, and Upwell, and at Fleet in Lincolnshire ; but his most important work was the North Elmham peal of eight bells, the tenor of which weighs 24 cwt. His bells much resemble the more modern ones in shape, being flat in the crown in order to lessen the strain upon the cannons. ' In the Eegistration Copy tliis name is ■written Brewster. I Lelieye my reading to be correct : if it be, Draper'^ relationship to John Brend of Norwich may explain the fact that the county was pretty evenly divided between them. - Consistory Originals, 1644. 48 NOTES OX BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. DOWNHAM FOUNDHY, 1779—1833. Thomas Osborn (1779 — 180G) avIio liad been foreman to Joseph Eayre, of St. Neot's, was taken into partnership by Edward Arnold, wlio, on the death of his cousin, Joscpli Eayre succeeded to his bell-foundry, knowing little or nothing about the business. Bells cast by Osborn and Arnold occur at Aylsham, Downham Market, and other places from 1773 to 1778, about which time the partner- ship was dissolved, and Osborn set up a foundry at Downham, his native place. ^ The Ililgay bells were cast by him in 1779. A few years later, about 1782, he was associated with Robert Patrick, of London, who had a bell-foundry in AYhitechapel, after the death of Thomas Lester. The tenor bell of St. John Madder- market, Norwich, was recast by Patrick and Osborn in 1782, and the Pev. J. H. Sperling has found two or three entire peals cast by them about the same time. About 1800, Osborn took his grandson, William Dobson, into partnership : their joint names occur on the fifth boll at Sutton St. Nicholas, Lincolnshire, in that year ^ and in 1803, on the bells at Wisbeach St. Mary and Whittlesea St. Mary, Cambridge- shire.^ In 1806, Thomas Osborn died, and was buried in Downham churchyard, where his gravestone still remains.'' On Osborn's 3 His baptism is recorded in the Downham IMarket Register, on the 19tli October, 174L In 17-10, Eichard Osborn, joyner, was admitted to a tenement in the High Street of Downham, formerly called the Fox and Goose, abutting east on the Church Hill. Administration of the goods of Eichard Osborn, of Downham, deceased intestate, was granted loth December, 17C2, to Sarah his widow. At the Manor Coni-t held 23rd May, 1763, he was found to die seized of the premises just mentioned, and Thomas was found his only son and heir, and was admitted : at this date Thomas is described as a carpenter. ■* MS. collections of the Eev. J. J. Eavcn. s " Church Bells of Cambridgeshii-e," by Eev. J. J. Eaven, East Anglian, vol. iii. •^ " In memorj' of Thomas Osborn, who died, December 6th, 1806, aged 65 years." "In memory of Elizabeth, the wife of Thomas Osborn, who died March 30th, 1807, aged 69 years." The gravestone of Thomas Osborn's parents stands near, and is inscribed — " In memory of Eichavd Osborn, who departed this life the 28th of Xovember, 1762, aged 0-1 years. "Also of Sarah his wife, who died May 10th 1797, aged 88 ycars.^ THE DOWNHAiSr FOUNDRY. 49 death, William Dobson, whoso name occurs as early as 17^8 on the Crimplesham bells, succeeded to the foundry. Althouo-h he appears to have had extensive connections''' — peals of eight bells cast by him in 1808, 1821, and 1823, are respectively at St. John Baptist, Peterborough, Poole, Dorsetshire, and St. George Camberwell — his finances did not prosper, his foundry being sold to Mr. Thomas Mears, of London, in the latter part of 1833. The fine peal of eight bells at Diss, cast in 1832, was probably his last peal, and certainly it is one of the best ever cast at the Downham foundry ; the tenor bell at St. Neot's, however, is said to be the last single bell cast at Downham. Dobson after selling his foundry removed to London, where for some time he obtained his livelihood in a lawyer's office. At length he was made a brother of the Charter-house ; and there in 1842, he died and was buried. His wife's gravestone, with an inscription to his memory, remains in Downham churchyard.^ Most of the Downham bells bear merely the founder's name and residence, with the date of the year ; but some are inscribed with the name of the town for which they were cast, as " Prosperity to the town of Diss." Others, again, bear the names of the rector and churchwardens, or of the principal inhabitants of the parish. Two favorite inscriptions with Osborn, were "Percute, dulce cano," and "Cum voco, venite." At "Walsoken, Norfolk, and Rougham, Sufiblk, we find " Venite exidtemus : " at Marham and Walsoken, " The Lord to praise, my voice I'll raise." Some inscriptions were used both by Osborn and Dobson ; examples of these are — " Peace and good neighbourhood." " Let us lift up our voices with joy." " Give no offence to the Church." "liong live King George the Third." On Dobson's bells we find the following — " Let us sing praises unto the Lord on high." " Fear God and honour the king." ■J "A list of peals of hells that have been cast at the foundry of "Wm. Dobson, church bell-founder and hanger, at Downham, Xorfolk," will be found in the Appendix. 8 Sacred to the Memory of Martha, the wife of William Dobson, who died April .)th, 1818, in the 27th year of her age. Also William Dobson, many years a bell-founder in this place, died in London, July 11th, 1842, in the 63rd year of his age. H 50 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDEKS. THE LONDON FOUNDEIES. Although for five hundred years or more, with scarcely any interruption, a bell-foundry existed in Norfolk, still very many bells are found in our churches which were cast elsewhere. It is now proposed to class under the names of the several foundries of London, Bury, &c., the bells which appear to have been cast at them. The London foundries naturally claim our notice first, although comparatively but few early bells can with certainty be attributed to them. The fifth bell at South Lopham has its legend 4* virginis <> EGREGiE o vocoR « CAMPANA o MARIE in fine large crowned capitals. (Xo. 3.) (Xo. 4.) THE LONDON FOUNDRIES. 51 The initial cross,^ No. 1 ; the crown, No. 2 ; and the stop, No. 4, dividing the words, are here engraved ; as is also a shield, No. 3, charged with a chevron between three ewers or lave pots, which is repeated four times on the haunch of the bell above the inscription, Deopham fifth bell and Surlingham third bell are respectively inscribed — 4* dvlsis o sisto » melis ° campana o vocor „ rafaelis, and *i» viRGiNis egregie, &c., in characters smaller than those of the bell last mentioned. The stop on the Surlingham bell. No. 5, is the central ornament only of the stop on the South Lopham bell, the border of crowns and cinquefoils being omitted. The stop on the Deopham bell. No. 6, is more simple. The initial cross. No. 7, here figured is the same on both bells, and (No. 7.) (Xo. 5.) is also found on Cringleford second bell, inscribed — -h Sum . Eosa . |5ulsata , JHunDi . l^atcrina . F0cata Norwich, All Saints, second bell — 4* Callus . Focor . lEgo , Solus . Super . ©mnia . Souo Surlingham fourth bell — 4- lofjanncs . Cristt . Care . ©tsnarc . Pro , i^obis . ©rare These bells, like the South Lopham fifth, bear four shields charged with a chevron between three ewers, No. 3 ; and althougli inscribed in black-letter, there is between each word the stop 9 This cross occurs on a bell at Aldfristoii, Sussex ; and tlic wood block was engraved for Mr. Amherst Tyssen's Church Bells of Sussex. On the Lopham bell the outline of the cross is circular and not octagonal. H 2 52 >'OTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNTDERS. (No. 8.) No. 8, the legend around which is 4- SEilliam , ffountior . mc . fecit. DiTCHiNGiiAM fourth and fifth bells, respectively inscribed (BtttXli^ ^tiniS i^csonct Campana 3cif}annts and Sum l\osa Pulsata iHuntii fHaria Uocata, are without any stop between the words, and have the shield with the three ewers, No. 3, instead of an initial cross. The capital letters of the fifth bell are crowned, being those of the Lopham bell, whilst the black letter is the same as that on the bells at Cringleford, Norwich All Saints, and Surlingham. Whitweij> fourth, fifth, and sixth bells, inscribed 4- SEo.x ^uQustmt Sonet hi ^ure IBet 4- Sancta i^aterina ©ra Pro i^obis 4- Sit i^omen JBomiui Benetftctum have these shields and this initial cross — THE LONDON FOUNDRIES. 53 Bells similar to the preceding are found all over England ; and it is evident from the lettering of them, and the use of the same crosses and stops, that they all come from one foundry ; and as they are met with in London, Mr. Tysscn's conclusion is, that " London is the most likely j)lace for the foundry." ^ "We are, unfortunately, at present, ignorant as to the early history of the London bell-founders ; a few of their names is all that has been recovered concerning them. Richard de Wimbish, potter and citizen of London, is mentioned in 1312, as casting a bell for the conventual church of the Holy Trinity in Aldgate.^ His name occurs also on bells at Slapton, Northamptonshire;^ Berechurch, Essex; Burham, Kent;* and Great Bradle}^ Suffolk. There arc also two bells cast by Michael de Wimbis at Bradenham, Bucks, and one by Walter de "Wimbis at Kingston, Surrey. John Aleyn, who cast the first bell at Southease, Surrey, used the same cross as Walter de Wimbis. In 1308 the name of Balph de Wimbis, potter,^ is foimd; and in 1316, Henry in the Lane, John atte Marche, William de Alegate, and Robert de Baughtone, are mentioned as founders and workers of pots.^ Stephen Norton, of Kent, whose name is on bells at Snave in Bomney Marsh, and Holy Cross, Canterbury, was also, probably, a London founder. Robert Burford of London was paid £31. 14s. 7d. in 1410 for a new bell and all its furniture, supplied by him to Shropham Church.''' In Poole's History of Ecclesiastical Architecture in England, at pp. 386 — 390, are reprinted from Dugdale's JFarivickshire "Docu- ments relating to the Decorations of the Beauchamp Chapel in St. Mary's Church, Warwick." In these, Will. Austen, citizen ' T/ie Church Bells of Sussex, p. 15. - Riley's Memorials of London and London Life, p. 100. London, 18G8. His name occurs at p. 47, as early as 1303, with the names of Thomas de Bykenore, Eobcrt Lorchon, and Geoffrey le Porter, also potters and citizens of London. ^ Ail Account of Church Bells, by Rev. W. C. Lukis, p. 86. * The Church Bells of Sussex, p. 7. * Memorials of London and London Life, p. 64. •> Ibid. p. 118. These pottei'S were not necessarily bell-founders; but it seems desirable to keep their names in sight, as they may perhaps be found upon church bells. ' Blomcfield, vol. i. p. oOS, fo. ed. 54 ^"OTES ON liELLS AND I'.El-h-FOUNDERS. and founder of London, is mentioned (1449 — 1451) tis making- images of latten ; and perhaj^s he was the William Founder whose name occurs on the stojjs of the Cringleford, Norwich All Saints, and Surlingham bells, which were apparently cast about the middle of the fifteenth century. Mr. Tyssen mentions as London bell-founders, Bullisden, 1510 ; William Smith, Algate, 1510 ; John Owen, 1552 ; and William Culverden, 1510 — 23, who refers in his will to Thomas Lawrence of London, bell-maker. Some idea may be formed of the extent of William Culverden's foundry, from the fact that he had sold his plant for £120, as appears from the following extract from his will. " And further- more as touching all and singular my belmolds and implements w' all other stuffe w*in the said house grounde and shedds neces- sary and belonging to the crafte or science of Belfounders or Brasiers which particularly ben expressed in an other pair of indentures made also bitwene me and the said Thomas Lawrens. I have in likewise solde to the said Thomas Lawrence for the sume of one hundred and twenty pounds sterling, &c." William E,evel and William Schep were, I think, London founders ; there is a bell cast by Revel at St. Laurence, Norwich, inscribed, in characters illustrated on the opposite page — •f. VOCOR ': JOHANNES •!• WILELMUS ] revel ] ME FECIT. And a bell from Sutton at Hone, Kent, was inscribed -J* tempora [ fvlgvra ': dvm ] pvlso j gesso ] maria in the same letters, as is also the third bell at Heckfield, Hampshire, with the legend, ►{• now *: GOD \ HELP ] AND ] HAVE | AL . There are also bells bearing William Revel's name, in much smaller letters, at Rowdham, Norfolk, and Longfield, Kent ; and there is another of Revel's bells at Hassingham, Norfolk, the letters of which differ in size from his other type, but have the same double outline. William Schep's name is found on a bell at Garboldisham, which not only resembles very closely Revel's bell at St. Laurence, Norwich, but has its inscription, AD LAVDEM SANCTI : ANTONII vviLELMVs : SCHEP : me FEcrr in the same letters as the inscription on the Hassingham bell. ^-f-'c THIRD BELL ST. LAURENCES NORvVlCH THE LONDON FOUNDRIES. 55 I would attribute to a London foundry bells at Wi:mbotsham, New Houghton, Burnham Deepdale, and "West Lynn, cast by one Derby, and respectively inscribed — ►f" SANCTA . MARIA • ORA . PRO . NOBIS ►J* SANCTE • PETRE • ORA • PRO • NOBIS . DARBY • FECIT . ISTA ►f» AVE • MARIA • GRACIA • PLENA • DNSNIMVS • TECV . MDERBY ►J* PETRVS 1 AD : ETERNE I DVCAT 1 NOS = PASCVA i VITE The stop between the words on the Wimbots- ham, Houghton, and Burnham bells is here figured ; that on the West Lynn bell is merely three dots, thus ; ; but all have the same initial cross, which is also found, apparently from the same mould, on a bell at Dyrham, Gloucestershire. Above the inscriptions on these bells are three crowned heads. At "West Lynn one ajDpears to be a king's head, the others two queens' heads ; on the "Wimbotsham bell the king's head only appears. Mr. Ellacombe has kindly placed at my disposal stereotypes of the heads on the Dyrham bell, which appear on comparison to be like those on the bell at West Lynn.^ There are also bells with tlie \^^^^ r 1 ^ i^^ 1 mWwi K' IQ > same crowned heads and initial cross at Chippenham, Cambridge- 8 The queen appears to wear a wimple, which the artist has not shown in the above woodcut ; the impressions, however, on the bell are very indistinct. 56 NOTES ON HELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. shire, and Ampton, Suffolk,^ on which the name of tlio founder, Derby, also occurs ; and with otlicr crowned heads, supposed to be those of Edward III. and his Queen, at Stoneleigh, War- wickshire ; Christ Church, Hants ; Frodingham, Lincokishire ; St. Peter at Gowt, Inncoln ; Shelford, Cambridgeshire, and other places. This wood block of the king's head is from Mr. H. T. EUacombe's Church Bells of Devon. Eovir other Norfolk bells may be assigned to the London foundry, narael}', the clock bell at Long Stratton, inscribed 4* sancta CATEKiNA ; two bcUs at Islington near Lynn, one without a legend, the other in- scribed -J* roil THE YERE OF OWR LORD GOD XDLVI (Qy. 1556) ; and a bell at Shouldham with this inscription, -J- avsten bracker MAD me anno DOMINI M — , the date incom- plete. All have this initial cross, and on the crown of the Shouldham bell arc four shields, on two of which are the ancient arms of England as borne before King Edward III. quartered the arms of France with them in 1340. The other shields are charged with the Yorkist badge, a rose-en-soleil, apparently from the same mould as an impression found on a standard quart measure inscribed 1l?enrtCUS Sf pttmilS, once belonging to the Corporation of Norwich, and now in the Norwich Museum. There are also two bells by Austen Bracker ' at Newton and Harston in Cambridgeshire, which have for a stop the initial cross just figured, as I learn, from a sketch sent me by Mr. L. B. Clarence. 9 It appears from Mr. W. T. Kimber's voluino of Drawings of Mcdiaval Bdl Inscriptions, that there was also at Staunton, Gloucestershire, a hell with the same cross and royal heads, inscribed ^ intonat e celis vox campana michaelis. 1 Mr. EUacombc, iu the Church Bdh of Devon, also attributes to him a bell at "Woolborough, Devon, and calls him a celebrated London founder. STAMPS USED BY LONDON BELL-FOUNDERS. THE LONDON FOUNDRIES. 57 The fourth and fifth bells at Watlington — inscribed 4- IIO«. ►M 6 ^ .Sancta ^nna ©ra ^pro Noiits r. i^-^m W liiiam Chapman J William Chapman and ) t^qo itsj. William Mears j 1779—1782 1784—1787 William and Thomas Mears 1787 — 1791 Thomas Mears, senior . . 1791—1804 Thomas Mears and Son . 1805—1809 Thomas Mears, junior . 1810 — 1844 Charles and George Mears . 1844 — 1858 George Mears . . . 1859—1865 G. Mears and John Stainbank 1865 William Mears THE LONDON FOUNDRIES. 59 Of these founders James Bartlett is the first whoso bells are met with in Norfolk. Our interest in the previous men rests on the fact that Mott and the Carters used not only Brasyer's large shields, engraved at pp. 10 and 31, but also the capital letters of the Norwich foundry. Thus on the second and third bells at St. Martin-cum-Gregory, York, inscribed ^ollCrt TTlOt tnatlC mC mrCCCChwiX ; and on the second bell at Fetchani, Surrey, inscribed Robertus Mot me fecit 1588, the shield engraved at p. 10 occurs. In further illustration of this fact it may be noted that bells at Smarden and Eainham, Kent, dated 1601, also by Mott, are inscribed with the fifteenth-century capital letters used by Brasyer. It must be mentioned that Joseph Carter, the second on the list, was a bell-founder at Reading, and carried on the London foundry by his son William. Bells at Stanford Rivers, Essex, Wittersham and Charing, Kent, by the father, and at Baustead, Surrey, Stourmouth and Southfleet, Kent, by the son, are in- scribed in the capital letters of the Norwich foundry used by Mott. Mr. Amherst Tyssen tells us that the larger of the shields engraved at p. 31,^ is found on mau}^ bells in Oxon and Berks, cast by Joseph Carter from 1597 to 1609, and by William Yare, his son- in-law and successor, in 1610 and 1611. Thomas Bartlett, the fourth on the list, some time a servant of Carter, had this mark, which was also used by both Anthony and James Bartlett, " It is worthy of note that Carter placed his initials oa tliis shield. 60 NOTES ON BELLS AND ]J ELL-FOUNDERS. and is found on the fourth and fifth bells at Little ^^alsingham, inscribed "Walsingham Parva, July 1st, Anno Domini 1691, James Bartlett made me." This mark occurs also on the bell at Westacre, dated 1676, without a founder's name. James Bartlett died in January, 1701, intestate, and we find Richard Phelps obtained a lease of the foundry. He does not appear to have met with employment in Norfolk until 1730, and there are but few of his bells in the county. Upon one of the Redenhall bells, dated 1738, the year in which Phelps died, his name occurs with that of his successor, Thomas Lester, who had been his foreman, and of whose bells I have not found a dozen in the whole county. In 1752 Lester is stated to have taken Thomas Pack into partnership, and the Norwich foundry ceasing about this time, by Gardiner's return to Sudbury, a wider field was opened, and we find Lester and Pack cast several good peals for Norfolk churches. About December, 1768, Lester had his will drawn, providing therein with great care for a partnership between his nephew William Chapman the younger and Thomas Pack. This will was proved 2nd November, 1769, and the proposed jDartnershijD between Pack and Chapman was carried out. The celebrated peal of twelve bells at St. Peter Mancroft, Norwich, was cast by them in 1775. Pack died in 1781, and Chapman took into partnership William Mears,'* who had been for a year or two in business by himself. In 1784 Chapman died, and from that ^ In 1762, vrhen Lester and Pack "had to recast the big bell at Canterbury, they found it more convenient to do the work on the spot than to carry the bell to London and back again. "William Chapman was accordingly sent down to perform the task, and he put on the bell the inscription, ' Gulielmo Friend S. T. P. Decano, Lester and Pack of London fecit 1762. Wm. Chapman molded me.' The bell is 70 inches in diameter, and weighs 70 hundred weight. It was whUe engaged in this business that Chapman saw among the bystanders a young man who seemed to take unusual interest in the proceedings, and he offered to take him back to London, and teach him to be a bell-founder. This was "William Mears, and he accepted the invitation, and went to London with Chapman to learn his profession, and it is thi'ough this incident that the foundry has come to its present proprietors." — T/ic Church Bells of Sussex, p. 40. THE LON])ON FOUNDKIES. 61 date the Whitechapel foundry has inaintained a flovirishmg trade in Norfolk.^ There were many other London bell-founders besides those of Whitechapel, although none attained the same importance, and the works of a few only are to be found in Norfolk. E,oBEiiT Catlin, 1739 — 1751, has one bell at liarleston dated 1751. He was originally a bell-hanger, and became a founder upon the death of Samuel Knight, of the parish of St. Andrew, Holborn, of whose will he was executor and residuary legatee. Robert Patrick, 1782 — 84, married Sarah Oliver, Lester's grand-daughter, in trust for whom Lester devised the White- chapel foundry to John Exeter. In Pack's will, dated 1780, Patrick is described as of Whitechapel, cheesemonger, but shortly after he seems to have set up as a bell-founder with Osborn of Downham, for the tenor bell at St. John Maddermarket, Norwich, was cast by them in 1782. Mr, Sperling has also found two or three peals by them in that year, after which, he says, Patrick went on by himself for a year or two,^ and then died or gave up bell- founding. John Warner and Sons, 1796 — 1802, 1850 — . The present firm, although of long standing as founders, has only added the casting of bells to the other branches of founding since 1850. There are, however, at St. Stephen's, Norwich, and at Colby, bells respectively dated 1796 and 1802, inscribed " John Warner and Son, Founders, London," whilst at Strood, Kent, two bells bear this inscription, " John Warner, founder, of London, 1788." 5 It appears from "A list of peals of bells cast since 1738 at the foundry of Messrs. C. and G. Mears, 267, Whitechapel Road, London, 18.56," that the number of single bells cast there "from 4 cwt. upwards, with chimes of three and four added," was 188,372. In addition to which there had been cast, in peals of from twelve to five, 3,888 bells, s The Priest's bell at St. Michael, Oxford, dated 1784, bears his name. — Ah Account of Church Bells, p. 90. 62 NOTES OX RELLS AND I'.ELL-FOUNDEKS. Suffolk ifninxtrrics. BUEY ST. EDMUXD'S. The first of the Suffolk foundries is supposed to have been at Bury/ mentioned in the early part of the sixteenth century. In the neighbourhood of tliat town, and in a district of which it woiild be the centre, a number of bells are foimd stamped thrice on the crown with this shield, the cross arrows in which are supposed to allude to the arms of Bmy. The letters ]) S are probably the initials of the bell- founder for whom this stamp was made, and whose name has not been recovered. From the device of a cannon in the shield it is inferred that he also cast gams. These bells are inscribed in black-letter, generally with cap- ital initials to each word, between which there is usually this stop, sometimes doubled vertically. The type is later in date than that used at the Xorwich foundry, and inferior in design ; the inscriptions also are less varied. Of eighteen bells in Norfolk, thirteen are inscribed ,SHUCt3l fHciricl or a pro noli is ; and of thirty bells in Suffolk, of which I have notes, eighteen have merely " Ora pro nobis" added to the name of a Saint. Besides the well-known " Sum rosa pulsata mundi Maria vocata," and "Virgo coronata due nos ad rcgna bcata," used ' The King's Arms puLlic-hoiisc, near the comer of Brcntgovel Street, is said to stand on the site of an ancient bell-foundry. — Bw}/ Post, Jan. 18, 1870. THE uuiiY ST. Edmund's foundries. 63 by the Norwich founders ; "Johannes Cliristi care dignare pro nobis orare," and " Stella Maria maris siiccurre piisima nobis," used by the London founders, we find the following : Jleritis (Jrtimuutii for whom it was originally made. In the second volume of The East Anglian a bond is printed, dated 1533, by which Roger Reve, of Bury St. Edmund's,^ was bound in the sum of £40 ; the condition being, " that if the meane bell of Depden church, which he had made new, should remain whole, &c., for one year and a day, that then the obligation should be void. And that if it happened the said bell to discord or break, through default of workmanship, within the year and a day, that then he * Tymms's Historic of the Church of St. Marie, Bury St. Edmund's, p. 73. 3 Arch. Sudbnry Reg. Hood, 154. It seems that he had a son Thomas -svho was dead, leaving sons, Thomas and Reignold. ' lie is described as a "clothier," but I suspect that the transcriber has misread a contracted form of some such word as " clochearius." (M- NOTES ON 15EM.S AND 15ELL- FOUNDERS. was to recast or change it, until the said meane bell be sufficient in concord to the other bell of the said church." This bell unfortunately does not remain at Debden^ ; and Stephen Tonni, 1559 — 1588, is the first of the Bury founders whose name we find upon a bell. He is supposed to have been the son of John Tonne, 1522 — 1540, and occasionally used the initial cross and other devices found on John Tonne's bells in Sussex and Essex.' His mark, a crown pierced with two arrows in saltire, has been engraved at p. 12. His inscriptions are usually in Roman letters — de bvri santi edmvndi stefanvs tonnt me fecit — with some- times this initial cross, and for a stop a fleur-de-lis. But he used another type for special inscriptions, as at Reepham, where the bell is inscribed BEATI qui habitat in DOMO TUA DOMINE in capital Gothic letters, as is also the third bell at Oxburgh. The Reepham bell is somewhat remarkable for two impressions on the metal, of the seal of the cloth subsidy for the county of Sufiblk, and although dated 1559, has a representation of the Crucifixion upon its waist. Stephen Tonni seems to have been behind his age, for we find on some of his bells, inscriptions such as " Filius Virginis Marie dat nobis gaudia vite," " Sum rosa pulsata," &c. Upon many of Tonni's bells are found the initials W. L., pre- sumed to be those of William Land, already mentioned at p. 43, and who is supposed to have gone to Colchester. The next bell-founder we find connected with Bur}-, is Thomas 2 There are bells in Kent cast by a founder named Gyles Eeeve, dated 1584 — 89. •* Church Bells of Cambridgeshire, p. 24; Church Bells of Sussex, p. 16, THE BURY ST. EDMUND's FOUNDRY. 65 Cheese, who cast the third bell at Little Saxham, Suffolk, in- scribed, "Thomas Cheese made me, 1603, S. B." and whose initials are found on a bell at Hunston, Suffolk, inscribed "Johannes Driverus me fecit 1617, T. C." Cheese's will, in which he is described as of Bury St. Edmund's, beU-founder, is dated 26th February, 1634, and proved 1st April, 1635. The name of James Edburi or Edbere, who uses as his mark the crown and arrows, and for a stop the fleur-de-lis of Stephen Tonni's bells, occurs with the dates 1605, 1606, and 1608, at Sudbury St. Peter, Suffolk; Little Dunham, Norfolk; and Blythburgh and Shadingfield, Suffolk. The treble at Hargrave, Suffolk, is inscribed "Thomas Cheese, James Edbere, 1622." The initials J. E. and J. D. occur on bells at "Worlington and Wick- ham Skeith, dated 1611 and 1615, and may perhaps represent James Edbere and John Driver, who has been just mentioned as the founder of the Hunston bell, and whose name is also met with on bells at Rede and Freston, Suffolk, dated 1602 and 1614. The same scroll-like ornament appears on Edbere's as well as on Driver's bells. Andrew Gurney has been mentioned at p. 46, as casting bells with John Draper of Thetford in 1621, 1624, and 1630 ; and we learn that the fifth bell of East Bergholt was recast in 1621 at Bury St. Edmund's, by Andreu'e Girne.^ His will is dated 30th December, 1643, and proved 5th May, 1647.^ He bequeathed all his tools and moulds for working to his son, Ilobert Gurney, besides three cwt. of metal, for two cwt. of which he was indebted to his son. In the Principal Registry of the Court of Probate, is pre- served the will of John Hardy, of Bury St. Edmund's, bell- founder, dated 25th October, 1657, and proved 1st July, 1658. He devised the house he lived in, joining Risby Gate, to his wife Mary, for her life. One of his sisters, Joane, was the wife of Abraham Greene, of Bury St. Edmund's, bell-founder. Of Hardy and Green I have no other notice ; indeed it is not a - An Account of Church Bells, p. 97. 3 Arch. Sudbury : Meado-vres, 339. 66 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. little remarkable, that since so many bell-founders were located at Bury during the first half of the seventeenth century, so few bells should be found which can be referred to them. The bells of John Draper, of Thetford, are met with in great numbers throughout Suffolk ; the bells also of "William and John Brend, of Norwich, and of Miles Graye, of Colchester, are plentiful. Robert Gurney, 1655 — 1672, used for a foundry mark, a crown pierced with two arrows in saltire. We also find on his bells, which are usually inscribed with his name or initials, a crown and a bell. Nine or ten of his bells are in Norfolk, and I am acquainted w4th about the same number in Suffolk, which, al- though few for twenty years' practice, are more than we know of cast by his six immediate predecessors. It appears from the Town Book of Hingham, that the tenor bell of that church was recast in 1701, (it is not stated by whom) at Bury St. Edmund's. In 1696, the great bell of St. Mary's, Bury, was recast by Charles Newman, probably at Bury, and it has been already mentioned that Thomas Newman cast bells there in 1735. IPSWICH. John Barbie, 1658 — 1685. Twenty-five of his bells still remain in Norfolk churches, and I know of three times that number in Suffollc, although I have notes of the inscriptions from little more than half the churches of that count}'. The fourth bell at Rodmersham, Kent, was cast by him in 1657, but I do not think he came into the Eastern Counties until the following year. It was supposed that his foundry was at Kelsale, and the inscription on the tenor bell at that church •* was adduced in favour of the supposition. It must, however, be borne in mind that all the bells in Ipswich, cast during the quarter of a century that he flourished, bear his name as the founder ; and it appears 1 "John DarLie made me 1681, Philip Eade asuistaiii, ^Y"' Wright and Ealf Eade, C. W. Feoffees." THE IPSWICH FOUNDRY. 67 that in 1G69 he recast the sixth bell of Loddon church at Ipswich, and that at the same town in 1677 he recast bells for East Ilarling. In this latter work Darbie seems to have been associated with Christopher Graye, for his name is on the third bell and John Darbie's on the fourth, both dated 1677, and it appears from the churchwardens' account for that year that both bells were cast at Ipswich, and John Darbie's name alone occurs in the account. I find that Edmund Darby, of Norwich, in 1647, made his will and devised a messuage in Ipswich, commonly called Old Barr Gates, to his mother for her life, with remainder to his nephew Edmund Darby ; and further devised property at Fakenham and Trimley, Suffolk, to his nephew John Darby, son of his brother John, deceased, but I cannot identify this John with the founder, nor do I know his relation to Michael Darbie, another bell- founder, who will be noticed hereafter. In the District Hegistry at Ipswich is the administration bond of a John Darby of Ipswich, no doubt the bell -founder, dated 17th January, 1686, the admin- istratrix being Elizabeth Darby, widow, and the sureties, Robert Stebbing, apothecary, and Stephen Searson, brazier. SUDBUEY. Henry Pleasant, 1694—1707. John Thornton, 1711—1720. Thomas Gardiner, 1711 — 1759. Henry Pleasant is stated by a writer in the Bury and Norwich Post to have succeeded the Grayes at Colchester about 1686, and to have "removed his foundry not long afterwards to Sudbury-, where he carried on a considerable business between the years 1696 and 1707." He was somewhat of an humourist, and engraved upon the bells which he cast for All Saints' church, Maldon, 1707, the following lines — " When three this steeple long did hold They were the emblems of a scold, No miisic then, but we shall see "What rictisant music six will be." k2 68 NOTES ON JJELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. At Thctford, St. Cutlibert, we find on the treble — " Ilenry Pleasant did me new run In the year 170L" At Ipswich, St. Nicholas, for which church he recast the entire peal of bells, may be read on the sixth bell — " Henry Pleasant have at last Made us as good as can be cast." On the fifth bell— *' Marlborough duce castra oano vastata inimicis." It has been already mentioned that in 1705 he appears to have cast bells at Bracondale, Norwich. Two of the bells at Blickling were recast in 1703, and bear Charles Newman's name as their founder, but in the churchwarden's book of that parish, at the end of the accounts for the year 1703, is this memorandum — "May ye 19th, 1706 " Eec^ then of Eich'^ Smyth y^ sum of Three pounds w^^ was recovered of Pleasants, Bell Founder." On the Earlham bell, cast by Pleasant in 1705, there are two small shields charged with a harp, also found on a bell at Barnham Broom by T. Newman, dated 1707. Henry Pleasant died in 1707, and letters of administration were granted on the 12tli day of February, 1708, to his widow MiKcent by the Archdeacon of Sudbury. John Waylett, none of whose bells have been met with in Norfolk, is supposed to have succeeded Pleasant, and in 1712 we find him associated with John Thornton ; a bell at Great Thurlow, Suffolk, being inscribed "Jolm Waylett and John Thornton, Sudbury, fecit, 1712, After this date Waylett seems to have left the Eastern Counties and to have gone to Sussex. Thornton continued at Sudbury until 1720. His bells are said to be good but scarce : I have noted only three in Norfolk, i.e. at Pulham St. Mary tlie Virgin and Shropham, dated 1717. " The Hospitallers' Yard near Ballingdon Bridge, Sudbury, and Curds or Silkweavers' Lane were," says tlie writer in the Bunj Post, " successively the sites of foundries." It would appear that Thornton and Thomas Gardiner were both for some years THE REDGRAVE FOUNDRY. 69 separately casting bells at Sudbury, for Gardiner's name is found on a bell at Ickworth, Suifolk, as early as 1711. " Tho. Gardiner he did me cast, I'll slug his praise unto the last." Gardiner's connection with T. Newman in 1719, liis removal to Norwich in 1745, and his return to Sudbury in 1754, have been mentioned at pp. 41 and 42. The latest date at which his name has been found is on the first and fourth bells at Danbury, Essex, cast by him in 1759. REDGRAVE. John Goldsmith, 1708 — 1714, cast a few bells for Norfolk and Suffolk churches, principally in the neighbourhood of his foundry. His type was more elegant than that used by his contemporaries. He occasionally employs an initial cross, and his bells are always clean castings. Upon three of them he seems to have preserved the name of the patron saint of the old bell. Thus at Pulham St, Mary the "Virgin we find on the fifth bell, dated 1708, St. Margaret; at Terrington St, Clement on the second bell, Maria; and on the third bell at Hoxne, Suffolk, Gabriel. In his will, dated 23rd June, 1714, he describes himself as of Redgrave in the county of Suffolk, bell-founder ; and in the parish register his death is thus recorded in the same year : '•' John Goldsmith, of Redgrave, Bell Founder, June 25th.^ He mentions in his will his sons Nathaniel and John. The latter, I suppose, cast the bell at Riddlesworth, inscribed '*' John Goldsmith, fecit 1716 ; Diana Lady Drury." This is the onl}^ notice I have of John Goldsmith the younger as a bell-founder, but in 1737 he new hung some of the bells at Rickinghall Superior. His name appears as church- warden on the tenor bell of the peal at Redgrave church, cast by Thomas Newman of Norwich in 1736. 5 The Rev. T. 0. H. "NVilson, the Rector of Redgrave, informs me that this is the only entry in which the occupation of a deceased parishioner appears. 70 KOTES ON JJELI-S AND JiELL-FOUNDERS. Three-fourths of the church bells of Norfolk were cast in the Eastern Counties or in London, at the foundries whose history I have attempted in the preceding pages to elucidate. Some of the remainder came fi'om the neighbouring counties of Essex, Cam- bridge, Northants, and Lincoln. Beginning, then, with Colchester, I propose to pass on by Haddenham and Peterborough to Stamford, thence to diverge to Leicester and its offshoots at St. Neots and Lousrhborouwh. COLCHESTER. Richard Bowler, a few of whose bells are met with in Essex, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire, dated from 1583 to 1603, is said^ to have been the first Colchester founder, and to have brought up Miles Gray his successor, of whom Mr. Sperling says" that he was " the most celebrated bell-founder in the seventeenth century. His head quarters were at Colchester,^ but he itinerated con- siderably ; the number of his bells yet remaining is marvellous, and not the less remarkable is the exceeding beauty of their tone. There are some twenty or thirty of his tenors yet in Suffolk, and that at Lavenham, though in no way better than several others, has been often moulded by bell- founders. So great was Gray's reputation that the great bell at St. Nicholas, Newcastle-upon- Tyne, was sent all the way to Colchester to be recast by him." ^ It appears from the inscriptions on the bells at Ipswich, printed in vol. i. of the East Anglian, that besides a peal of six bells at St. ]Margaret's, cast by 3Iiles Graye in 1630, there are in that 5 Bury and Xorwich Post, August 2nd, 1864. ■' " Church Bells, their Antiquities and Connexion with Architecture." — The Builder, vol. xxiii., p 254. * The Rev. Hugh Pigot in September, 18-59, communicated to the East Anglian the inscription upon the tenor bell at Kersoy — " Samuel Sampson Churchwarden I say Caused me to be made by Colchester Graye 1638." 3 The Bells of St. Nicholas' Church, Netceastle-vjyon-Tync, by John Ycntress, 1857, p. 3. THE HADDENHAM FOUNDRY. 71 town several others cast by him, one as early as IGOl, others in 1610, 1613, 1615, and 1629. It would be tedious to mention all the bells of which I have notes bearing the name of Miles Graye : suffice it to say that in Cambridgeshire alone there are more than fifty dated from 1627 to 1667.^ The writer in the BKry Post, already quoted, says that Miles Graye died in 1666, and " was succeeded by his son Christopher, who continued his trade from 1666 to 1685." But at All Saints, Sudbury, the second bell, by Miles Graye, is dated 1671 ; at Hadleigh there are four bells by him dated 1678, 1679, and 1680, and at Coggeshall and Bildeston we find his name with the respective dates of 1681 and 1683. It is likely then that there were at least two bell-founders named Miles Graye, by one of whom the six large bells of the Swafi'ham peal were cast in 1634, whilst the fourth bell at Bressingham, dated 1671, is to be attributed to another. HADDENHAM, CAMBRIDGESHIRE. Christopher Gkaye, 1655 — 1683. Mr. Raven shows that the foundry of this person, whom he calls a "degenerate son of Colchester Gray, Old Miles," was at Haddenham in 1669 and 1683. There are twenty-one of his bells in Cambridgeshire dated between 1655 and 1683. The third bell at East Harling, dated 1677, and two bells at Denver, Norfolk, dated 1680, bear his name. PETERBOROUGH. Henry Penn, 1704 — 1723. There is one bell by this founder, dated 1708, at West Walton. Some interesting particulars re- lating to him will be found in the Church BeUs of Cambridgeshire, pp. 53, 54. Mr. Sperling says that " some of his Latin verses are very well turned ; he also occasionally condescended to English, as at St. Ives, Hunts." ^ The Church Bdh of Cambruhjcshire, by the Rev.- J, J. Eaven, B.D. Lowestoft, 1S69. 72 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. STAMFORD. A few bells are met with in Norfolk cliurches, cast at this town, bearing these names and dates — Tobias Norris, 1622, 1623. Thomas Norris, 1629, 1651, 1660, 1661, and 1678. ToBYE Norris, 1679. Mr. Justin Simpson informs me that in the register of St. Michael, Stamford, there is an entry, dated 1570, of the marriage of Thomas Norris and Elizabeth Brumfield ; and in the registers of St. George's church, of which Tobias Norris was warden in 1613-14, there are from 1606 to 1699 man}' entries of burials and baptisms of members of the Norris family. In 1626 he finds " Tobye Norris, bell-founder, was buried the 4th day of November," and in the north aisle of St. George's church an inscription (said to be a bell-metal casting) — " HERE LIETH THE BO- DY OF TOBIE NORRIS BEL FOVN : WHO DEC EA : THE 2 OF NO., 1626." In 1634, according to the register, Tobias Norris the son of Thomas Norris, bell-founder, was baptized April 25. In 1655 Thomas Norris was chief magistrate of Stamford. Mr. Simpson has not met with the record of Thomas Norris's burial, but in 1673 Edith the wife of Thomas Norris was buried, and the name occurs on a bell, the Fakenham tenor, as late as 1678. It seems likely there were two bell-founders of this name. The last bell-founder of the family appears to have been Tobye Norris, who cast the Ptoydon bell in 1679 : buried, as appears from the St. George's parish register, on 19th Januarj^, 1698-9. Alexander Rigby — {query, the man of whom we read on the treble bell at Badgworth, Gloucestershire, " Badgworth ringers they -were mad Because Rigbe made me bad, But Ahel Rudhall you may see Ilath made me better than Rigbe,") — seems to have succeeded Tobye Norris, for his burial is recorded in THE LEICESTER FOUNDRY. the register of St. Martin, Stamford, in 1708. None of his bells are to be found in Norfolk. The bells of tlie Norris family may- be seen at the churches of Walpole St. Andrew, West Walton, Upwell, Wiggenhall St. Mary the Virgin, Tilney All Saints, Castle Eising, Eoydon by Lynn, and Fakenham ; to these the treble at Oxburgh may probably be added. The elder Tobias and Thomas Norris both put on the waist of their bells the arms of Kino- James, and the fifth bell at Walpole St. Andrew has, in addition, a Latin legend, " Non sono animabus mortuorum sed auribus viventium ; " and this rhyme, " All men may see Tobias Norris of Stamford made me." Mr. Raven, in his Church Bells of Cambridgeshire, engraves the crest of the Norris family, an owl, which Tobias Norris the elder placed on some of his bells. LEICESTEE. The Leicester foundry was, I believe, the parent of that at Stamford, and it is doubtful to which two bells at Stow Bardolph, whose inscriptions are given at page 6, should be assigned. A foundry existed at Leicester at the commencement of the sixteenth century, for I find the will of William Millers, of the parish of All Saints, bell-founder, dated 1506, in which three children, William, John, and Agnes, are named, to each of whom he gave £10. To his wife Margery, his executrix, he devised a life estate in the house they resided in. She re-married with Thomas Newcome, who, in his will dated 1520, describes himself as " de Leicestr fusor campanarius," gives legacies to his stepsons William and John Millers, and apj)oints his wife Margery sole executrix. To each of his own children, Eobert, Edward, Joan, Agnes, and Margaret, he gives a legacy of £6 ; and to his brother and servant, Eobert Newcome, he gives 40s. He was buried, as he directed, in All Saints' church, and on his L 74 NOTES ON BEL1,S AND BELL-FOUNDEKS. gravestone were brazen effigies of liimself and his wife, with three bells, I presume on a shield.^ The next Leicester bell-founder I find noticed is Thomas BErr. He was mayor in 1529, and in an old roll is described as of All Saints, bell-founder, and ancestor of the Newcombes. It appears from his will, dated 1538, that he married Margery, the relict of William Millers and widow of Thomas Newcome. One of the witnesses of his will was a John Norres. The executors were his son-in-law Robert Newcome and Kateryn his wife, testator's daughter. This Robert Newcome in 1540 purchased the messuage adjoining the south side of his house, which abutted east on All Saints' church, and west on St. Clement's lane. In 1547 the churchwardens of St. Martin sold to Mr. Newcome 4^ cwt. of brass. The fourth bell at All Saints' church was cast in 1586 by another Rob arte Kewcombe, and the treble bell at Gloucester cathedral, dated 1598, bears the same name. Thomas Newcombe, bell-founder, was buried in All Saints' church in 1594. William Newcombe in 1610, jointly with Henry Holdfield (or Oldfield) of Nottingham, cast Great Tom of Lincoln in the Minster Yard. To this man I attribute the sixth bell at Stow Bardolph, dated 1612, and bearing a favourite inscription of the Leicester founders. The third bell there is dated 1601, and has on its shoulder, between the initials ^ ^, Brasyer's diapered shield, engraved at page 10. I do not find that there was a T. Newcome living at this time, but I have little doubt that this is a Leicester bell. William Watts placed this same shield on a bell cast by him in 1590 for Fletton church, Beds., and I have seen rubbings from bells, cast by this founder, of Brasyer's capital letters. There are many in the county of Northants. Hugh Watts was Mayor of Leicester in 1633, and his bells are described by Mr. Ludlara as the best he ever heard."^ In 1650 George Curtis, bell-founder, was buried in St. - These have long been lost, but the stone was to be seen until recently near the pulpit stairs. It is now buried about a foot below the surface. 3 The Church Bells of Cambridgeshire, page 58. THE ST. NEOt's FOUNDRY. 75 Martin's, Leicester. And now for some years this town seems to have been without a bell-foundry, for in 1657-8, the bells of St. Martin's church having been badly cast by Norris of Stam- ford, were re-cast by George Oldfield of Nottingham, who had in 1656 made the treble at St. Nicholas's church. In 1701 and 1704 the fifth and tenor bells of St. Martin's were re-cast by William Noone of Nottingham ; in 1711 the third and fourth bells at St. Margaret's, by Abraham Rudhall of Gloucester ; and in 1738 the trebles at the same church, by Thomas Eayre of Kettering. However, Clay of Leicester is mentioned as a founder in 1711 by Mr. Lulcis, and subsequently we find this foundry in the hands of Joseph Eayre and Edward Arnold. Thomas North, Esq., Hon. Secretary to the licicestershire Architectural and Archtcological Society, to whom I am indebted for much of the preceding information, adds that " the Arnolds were the last founders in Leicester. Their foundry is believed to have been in Hangman's Lane, now called Newarke Street." ST. NEOT'S. Thirteen bells cast by Joseph Eayre, between 1762 and 1772 ; twenty-two by Arnold and Osborn, between 1773 and 1778 ; and one by Edward Arnold, not dated, are found in Norfolk churches. This foundry has been mentioned at p. 48, under Downham, and many interesting particulars relating to it are given in The Church Bells of Cambridgeshire, p. 58 et seq. Mr. Eaven tells us that Thomas and Joseph Eayre were in partnership in 1717.^ "Subsequently Thomas Eayre established himself in Kettering, and Joseph at St. Neot's and Leicester, at the former of which places he erected a lofty brick building in the shape of a bell, in the prior}^" * If this were so, it could scarcely be the same man who was founding in 1772. l2 76 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. Arnold is stated to have continued the St. Neot's and Leicester business after the dissolution of his partnership with Thomas Osborn. Egbert Taylor served his apprenticeship Avith Edward Arnold and succeeded to his St. Neot's business. It appears that Taylor cast bells in that town from 1797 to 1816, and that in 1820 he was in partnership with his son William, who subse- quently with his brother John had foundries at Oxford, 1821 — 1854, and Buckland Brewer, Devon, 1825—1835. LOUGHBOROUGH. The Loughborough Foundry was established by John Taylor, senior, about 1840, and is carried on by his widow under the names of John Taylor and Son at the present day. The Rush ford, Brettenham, West Tofts, and Lynn St. Nicholas peals were cast bv this firm. SHEFFIELD. There is a peal of three bells at Mundford by jSTaylor, Tickers, AND Co., of Sheffield, dated 1859, and a bell at Barningham Town by Vickers, Son, and Co., (Limited,) Sheffield, 1868. WEST TARRING, SUSSEX. The treble at Kirby Bedon, a second-hand bell from Hedenham, is inscribed with the name of Henry Topsel, and the date 1585. I presume him to be identical with Henry Tapsell who was settled at West Tarring, Sussex, and was there buried in 1604.^ The initials R T on the Kirby bell I presume stand for Roger Tapsel his son. « The Church BcUs of Sussex, p. 24. 77 FOUNDERS WHOSE LOCALITIES AEE UNKNOWN. Having disposed of those foundries from which it is known, or there is reason to suppose, Norfolk churches were supplied with bells, I propose to set down the names and initials of bell-founders met with in our steeples, the localities of whose foundries are either unknown or only conjectured. Thomas. The third bell at Long Stratton is inscribed " Thomas MADE ME," to which is added a Norman-French legend, which enables one to fix approximately the date of the bell. Sir John Sturmyn, who caused it to be made, was lord of the manor in Stratton called bv his name, in 1327.^ Thomas's letterins- is unique and ugly, and I cannot consider him identical with a founder of the same name who cast the Babingley and North Tuddenham bells, inscribed " Thomas me fecit," in the characters of the Lynn foundry, as illustrated under Wood Hising. William Silisdex cast the peal of three bells at Old Wal- singham, two of which bear his name, the other being inscribed " -|- Sanctous Georgivs ora pro nobis." Neither his name, nor the letters and cross he uses have, to my knowledge, been found on any other bells, A John Silisden was a burgess of Lynn in 1440." Walter Blowere. There are two bells at Spixworth — one without inscription, the other inscribed, in small capitals, " -|- Walterws Blowere me fecit." The initial cross is here engraved. Robert Pltjmmer. William Eldhous. It appears from Blomefield that the inscription on one of the bells at Wolterton church, now in ruins, was " Robertus Plummer me fecit in honore sancte Margarete ; " and that at the neigh- bouring parish of Itteringham the second bell, sold in 1824, was inscribed " Willielmus Eldhous fecit me in onore Trinitatis." I have therefore included Plummer and Eldhous in this list of founders of Norfolk church bells. 8 Blomefield, vol. v., p. 103, 8vo. cd. " Norfolk ArcJiceoh^y, vol. vi., p. 23G. 78 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. John Clarke in 1613 cast one of the bells at Welney, part of wliicli parish is in this county, although the church stands in Cambridgeshire. There are bells of his casting at Flitwick, Beds ; Eastry, Kent ; Runiboldswyke, Sussex ; and Wrentham, Suffolk ; the earliest dated 1606. His foundry mark was a pentacle. Michael Darbie, 1651 — 1674. Three bells, dated 1661, cast by this founder, are at Feltwell St, Nicholas, Mileham, and Norwich St. Andrew. His bells are found in Kent as early as 1651. Mr. A. Tyssen says he "was of a very itinerant nature. In 1654 — 56, he set up a temporary foundry at Oxford, and re-cast many bells in that city and its neighbourhood."^ It appears that in 1670 a Mr. Darbie cast two bells for St. Margaret, "West- minster ; ^ and two bells at "Withyam, Sussex, dated 1674, bear the name of Michael Darbie. Mr. Raven says, epigramatically, "his wretched bells are to be found in many districts, for one specimen of his casting appears to have been enough for a neighbourhood." "Henry Yaxley made me 1671," is the inscription upon one of the Fritton bells. At Wyverstone, Suffolk, the treble, dated 1674, is similarly inscribed, and has, in addition to the royal arms and another coat, Brasyer's arms — a crown between three bells. This renders it probable that the other bells at Fritton, which are inscribed with portions of the alphabet in Brasyer's type, and are stamped with his diapered shield, engraved at page 10, were also cast by Yaxley. It has already been seen that the Norwich stamps passed into the hands of the London, Heading, and Leicester founders. The fourth bell at Terrington St. Clement is inscribed NvNC Clemens ego cano vobis ore ivcvndo 1595, r w r h,^ and is stamped with a roundel inclosing a bell between the letters ]^' 2, a device which has not been identified. The initials R. W. 8 The Church Bells of Sussex, p. 27, n. 38. 9 Illustrations of the Manners and Expences of Anticnt Times in England, — Nichols. 1797, p. 7L ' The inscription on the third bell at Walpole St. Andrew, dated 1603, differs little from the Terrington inscription. Jacobus being substituted for Clemens. FOUNDERS WHOSE LOCALITIES AKE UNKNOWN. 79 and R. H. are probably those of the bell-founders, whilst E,.' 0. in the mark must certainly stand for a founder's name. I believe that R. H. and R,.' 0. are the initials of the same man, Richard Holdfield or Oldfield, as the name was indifferently spelt, and it has been suggested that the letters in the mark should be read thus — R.' 0. Richard Oldfield, M. N. Maker, Nottingham. I cannot suggest a bell-founder's name for the initials R. W., but the letters of the inscription appear to be from the same alphabet as the initials T. N. on the crown of the third bell at Stow Bardolph, which I have attributed to the Leicester foundry. I am therefore led to suppose the Terrington bell to be the joint work of a Nottingham founder and a Leicester founder. The Nottingham foundry was of considerable antiquity and import- ance ; the probability of its having given to Norwich its earliest known bell-founder has been hinted at p. 25. It appears from vol. X. of the Archceologia that the bells of Louth church were cast at Nottingham c. 1510. From c. 1590 to c. 1660 the foundry belonged to the Oldfield or Holdfield family, and the names of Henry, Richard, Robert, and George have been found on bells. The foundry mark usually employed by Henry and George was a Calvary cross between the sun and moon, and the initials of their names ; and it is noteworthy that the letter in that mark is of the same shape as the in the mark on the Terrington bell. The initials R. B. are found on a bell at Felthorpe, dated 1634. Perhaps they may stand for Ralph Brend, mentioned at p. 39. On the treble bell at Yaxham, dated 1649, is a crown between the initials I. D. It has been seen at p. 46 that John Draper of Thetford died in 1644, and although he left a son John, I am not aware that he was a bell-founder. One of the bells at "VValpole St. Edmund, a church erected within the last quarter of a century, is dated 1681, and bears the initials I. H., probably those of John Hodson, of London, whose name is found from 1653 to 1693. Christopher Hodson was the founder of Great Tom of Oxford in 1680. These Hodsons were the greatest bell-founders in London during the latter half of the seventeenth century. 80 NOTES ON KELLS AND BEI.L-rOUXDERS. BELLS CAST BY UNKNOWN FOUNDERS. It remains now to class in groups those bells whicli bear neither founders' names nor initials, and which I am unable to assign with certainty to any of the known founders or foundries. The most numerous and interesting of these groups is formed by the bells at the following churches. Bale, 2iid Bamham Broom, 4th Burlingham St. Andrew, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Colkii-k, 5th Colnej, 2nd Cranworth, 1st Denton, 2nd and 3rd Eccles, 1st and 2ud !Fordliam Erettenham, 1st Halvergate, 5th and 6th Melton Great, 3rd Newton by Castleacre Norwich, All Saints, 3rd St. Clement, 2nd and 3rd Norwich, St. George Tombland, 3rd and 4th Pulham St. Mary the Yirgin, 4th Quidenham, 1st and 2nd Shereford Shotesham All Saints, 3rd Sprowston, 3rd Tharston, 3rd Baveningham, 1st Thoi-pe next Haddiscoe, 2nd Thrigby Tivetshall St. Margaret, 4th "Watton, 1st Weasenham St. Peter "Witton, near North Walsham Whinbergh, 1st To this list may be added the following in Suffolk churches, and probably many more when all the steeples of that county are visited. Frostenden, 3rd Stuston (re-cast) Ilketshall St. John Weston, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Bushmere Wetheringsett (re-cast) Sotterley Weybread, 2nd South Elmham St. George, 3rd The letters used in the inscriptions on the above bells are faithfully represented, the size of the originals, in the annexed plates. They have been mistaken by some for the letters of the Lynn foundry, to which indeed they bear resemblance, but are somewhat less archaic in character. A clue to the date of these bells, slight though it be, is afforded LETTERS ON BELLS AT BURLINGHAM ST ANDREW, V- LETTERS ON BELLS AT BURLINQHAM ST. ANDREW, 8^c. BELLS CAST BY UNKNOWN FOUNDERS. 81 by the fact that the towers of St. George Tombland and St. Clement, Norwich, contain bells of this group, most probably- placed there when the towers were rebuilt. Both steeples are clearly the work of one architect or master mason, and we are told b}^ Blomefield that the tower of St. George Tombland was built by the parish in the year 1445. The tower of St. Andrew's church. North Burlingham, which, apparently from the bequests to its erection, was built about 1460 or 1470, contains a peal of these bells. Mr. John E. Daniel Tyssen considers them, quite aj)art from the foregoing facts, to belong to about the year 1450. Of the fifty bells in this group, three in Norfolk and two in Suffolk bear this mark, which, from its resemblance to the arms of Bury St. Edmund's, suggests that they were cast there. One at Newton by Castleacre is stamped thrice with the Norwich foundry mark engraved at page 10, and on three bells, instead of the initial cross drawn with the accom- panying alphabet, appears that found on Austen Bracker's bells, engraved at page 56. This seems to indicate a connexion with one of the London foundries, a connexion rendered more probable by the fact that in Kent Mr. Tyssen has found, inscribed in these letters, some eight or nine bells which bear also the shield just engraved. I conclude that, although all these bells are inscribed in one character, they were not all cast by one founder, or even at the same foundry, and I am strengthened in this conclusion by an examination of the legends on the bells themselves, which present a greater variety than I have observed in a like number of bells cast at any one foundry. Mr. A. Tyssen has pointed out that "the ancient founders had favorite inscriptions," and although there are some common to many founders, the number of those peculiar to individuals or particular foundries is much greater. Now there are on these bells inscriptions which were used at the 82 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUXDERS. Norwich foundiy and at no other, as far as my observation extends. Thus, on the Shotesham and Weasenham bells is " Cell rcgina mihi semper sit medicina ; " on the bells at Great Melton, Norfolk, and Weston, Suffolk, "Missus vero pie Gabriel fert leta Marie;" and at Thrigby, "Fac Margareta nobis hec munera leta." At Barnham Broom and Tharston are bells of this group, bearing well-known Norwich inscriptions — " Quesumus Andrea famulorum suscipe vota " " Xos Thome meritis mereamur gaudia lucis " — side by side with other bells of the same age inscribed in the Norwich letters and bearing the Norwich mark ; whilst, as I have mentioned, at Newton by Castleacre that mark is found on a bell of this group, which bears likewise a Norwich inscription, " Nos societ Sanctis semper Nicholaus in altis." A majority of the Bury bells — those marked with the shield engraved at page 62 — are merely inscribed with a saint's name and 'ora pro nobis.' But there are other Bury bells with in- scriptions such as — " Qui regnat (Trinus) et unus celi det munus" "Virgo coronata due nos ad regna beata" " sidus celi fac Barbara crimina deli " — also found on bells of this group. Twentj'-one bells enumerated in the following list, viz., — Alderford Alby Banningham Barsham East Crostwight Foulsham Guestwick Haveringland, 3rd and -ith (re-cast) Hickling, 2nd Ingham, 2nd Itteringham Mautby Moidton near Acle Norwich, St. George Tombland, 2nd Stibbard Stiffkey South Eepps, 4th Sustcad Thornage Thwaite bv Avlshani — LETTERS FROM BELLS AT GR0STWL:>HT, FOULSHAM.&c. BELLS CAST BY UNKNOWN FOUNDERS. 83 have neither date, founder's name, nor mark upon them. They are, however, ornamented with inscrij^tions in large capital letters, of which those engraved on tiie opposite page, one-fourth the size, are examples. Ten bells of this list are inscribed Ave Maria, &c. ; five, Jesus Nazarenus, &c. ; and one bell at StifFkey bears " 4- Sancte Paule ora pro nobis; " and another at Haveringland, " + Sce Wille Martir ora pro nobis," being the only bells dedicated to those saints in the county. The Stifi'key inscription was unknown to mo when I noted the dedi- cations of bells at page 13. At Alderford and Mautby are bells respectively inscribed — "I AM MAD IN NAME OF SeN IoN BaPTIST." "Robs Batalie mad me in ye nam of ye Trenite." The inscriptions on the Foulsham and Crostwight bells have been printed at pages 16 and 17 ; but I refer again to the unique inscription on the latter, because it affords a clue to the date of these bells, if the John Aslak mentioned be identical with John Aslak of Crostwight, who died in 1434, as appears from his will proved in that year. He was buried in the church, to which (and to its altar) he gave legacies, as also to the bell-towers of the convents of Bromholm, Wymondham, and Hickliug. The locality in which an ancient bell is found is often a guide to the place at which it was cast ; and having found these bells only on the sea side of I^orwich,^ it was reasonable to suppose that they were cast at that place, although it was difficidt to assign them to any of the known Norwich founders. From Mr. Kimber's volume of drawings I find, however, there was a bell similarly lettered at Luddington, near Goole, in York- shire, inscribed, " -f- Sce Oswalde ora pro nobis ; " and what 2 A line drawn from "Wells to Fakenham, tlience tlirougb Norwich to Yarmouth, would include nearly all the places mentioned in the ahove list. m2 84 NOTES ON BELLS AND liELL-FOUNDERS. is more important, at Beckingliam, Notts, also a bell wliicli bore this inscription — " + Johannes de Colsale me fecit anno domini mccccix. + FeCERUNT me in HONORE omnium sanctorum + M. E. L. O. B. " The letters on this latter bell apjjcar, from Mr. Kimbcr's drawing, to be smaller than those on the bells above enumerated, but the ornamentation is so very like, that there can be no doubt both alphabets belonged to the same foundry. The identity of William of Notyngham, brasier (admitted to the freedom of the city of Norwich in 1376), with the William of Norwich who cast the bells of Barford and Hellesdon, has been already suggested at page 25. John of Colsale, the founder of the Beckingham bell, may have been a Norfolk man, for Coltishall is so spelled in the King's books, and is thus pronounced at the present da3^•^ The facts here stated prove that these bells belong to the early part of the fifteenth century, but it is not so clear that thej^ were cast either at Nottingham or Norwich. If at the latter place, why are not others found in the county south and west of Norwich ? It should be kept in mind that there was direct communication by the Trent and Humber between Nottingham and the Norfolk coast. It may be worth noting that Blomefield has preserved the inscriptions upon two ancient bells at Itteringham, of which one only remains, and belongs to the group of bells now under con- sideration. The other, sold since Blomefield's time, was in- scribed "Willielmus Eldhous fecit me in onore Trinitatis." It is probable that both bells were by one founder ; even were it so, no clue is thereby afibrded to the name of the foundiy where they were cast. The Hempstead second bell and the treble at St. George Tombland, Norwich, are from the same foundrj- as the last group, for upon examining the treble and second bells in the latter steejDle, it will be seen that the mouldings arc alike in the 3 lu Notts there ia a place called Cossalc, and in Bomcsdtvj Cotteslialc. BELLS CAST BY UNKNOWN FOUNDERS. 85 minutest particulars, while the letters, althoug-h of the same shape, are very different in size, being scarcely one inch in height, and altogether devoid of ornament. They may easily be mis- taken for the letters found on the following bells — Caister by Norwich, 3rd. Lessingham, 1st. MUNDHAM, 1st. EocKLAND All Saints, 2nd. Wramplingham, 3rd. These, however, have some slight ornamentation, and the initial cross somewhat resembles that used by Walter Blower, engraved at p. 77. Three of the above are "Ave Maria" bells, and the treble at Ellough, Suffolk, is similarly inscribed with the same letters, which are also found on the second bell at South Elmham St. James, inscribed " + Johannes : Brovn : me : fecit : fieri." GiLLiNGHAM third bell is inscribed " -J- SANCTA TEINITAS SALYA ME," in larger letters than those of the preceding class, but is evidently by the same founder, the initial cross being an enlarged copy of that found on the Caister bell. It is still further identified with them by a bell at Gorleston, Suflfolk, inscribed "•!- SANCTE NYCHOLAE ORA PRO NOBIS" in the same characters as the Gillingham bell, and "4* i ^^^ mad IN ye worchepe of ye cros " in the characters of the bells at Caister, Lessingham, &c. One of the oldest bells in the county stands on the floor of the Norman tower at Gayton, It is inscribed 4- Ave Maria, &c., in letters of a mixed Lombardic and Roman character, bearing some resemblance to the letters of the Lynn foundry, as seen in the Wood Rising inscription, although less ornamented and older in form. East Harling tenor bell is inscribed in small capitals with the alphabet, and has on its waist the symbols of the Evangelists, of Sfood design but much corroded. Over the cloister roof at St. Giles's Hospital, Norwich, hangs a small bell, inscribed tIjCSUS UaSarrUtlS rCX tUtlCOmm inb'^.Vlbiij. A fleur-de-lis supplies the place of the usual initial 86 NOTES ON BELLS AND BELL-FOUNDERS. cross, and around the crown of the bell is an arabesque border much like that on a bell-metal mortar by Peter Yanden Ghein, of Louvain, dated 1580, in the possession of Mr. G. B. Baker, of Bungay. In Blomefield's time this bell hung in the women's lodgings, formerl}' the chancel of the Hospital church, so that, no doubt, it was originally a sacring bell. SuRLiNGHAM second bell is inscribed, in Roman capitals, Da Gloriam Deo. Blomefield reads the date 1505 : it is certainly not distinct, but it appears to me to be 1584. On the waist of the bell is a mark which I cannot decipher. The list given below includes all the J^orfolk church bells, remaining at the present day, cast between 1593 and the close of the seventeenth centurj^ (1695), which beEs, although dated, bear no founders' names nor marks, and the lettering of which cannot be identified. They were, however, all probably cast at ^Norwich. Ditchingham (clock bell) Anno Domini 1593 Attlebridge - - - 1597 Eockland - - - - 1599 Westwick - - Anno Domini 1624 Kirby Cane (1st and 5th) „ 1626 jS'orwich, St. John de Sepulchre ,, 1628 IS^eedham - - - - 1629 Ashby - - X Longham - - y Anno Domini 1631 Briston - - J JS^orwich, SS. Simon and Judo Anno Domini 1634 Eakenham (4th) Eichard Stiberde Doner 1639 Hemblington - - - - 1662 Barton Bendish - - - - 1695 About fortj^ bells, dated between 1701 and 1847, also bearing no founders' names, are in our churches ; and those belonging to the first half of the eighteenth centur}' were probably also cast at Norwich, the remainder in London or at Downham. A reference to the churchwardens' accounts of the various parishes in which BELLS CAST BY Uj^'KNOWN FOUNDERS. 07 these bells are found might settle the point, but the inquiry would not have much interest, for more than half of them are simply inscribed with the date, whilst others merely bear in addition the names of the churchwardens, &c. The only ex- ception worth notice is that the five largest bells of the Caston peal are inscribed, " In Ion gum sevum resonemus laudem Joshua) Draper qui dono dedit Anno Dom. 1726." The sacring bells on the rood-screens at Salhouse and Seaming are blank ; so also are the saints' bells at Cranworth and Walpole, and at St. Margaret, St. Mary, St. Michael at Plea, and St. Peter Hungate, Norwich. The St. Mary's sanctus bell had every appearance of antiquit}^, and in shape much resembled the bell at Manningford Abbots, Wilts, illustrated in Mr, Lukis's Account of Church Bells, page 120. The sanctus bell on the lantern tower at East Dereham is stamped twice with a shield bearing a capital R reversed, apparently one of Baxter's letters, as shown in the illustration of the Ketteringham bell. Besides these, there are nearly sixty bells in Norfolk towers not inscribed. About a dozen of them are noted as having rect- angular canons, and these, it has been stated at page 40, were cast by Samuel Gilpin, 1679 — 1705. A few have every appearance of age : others are evidently modern ; but of the larger number it is impossible to do more than to guess at the dates. I^bbxnbn;. THE LYNN FOUNDRY, pp. 22—24. When the account of this foundry was written all the beU inscriptions in the county had not been copied. It has since been found that a bell at Babingley and another at East Tuddenham are inscribed Thomas me fecit, in letters like those on the bell at Wood Rising, of which an etching will be found at a sub- sequent page. 88 ADDENDA. NORWICH FOUNDHY, p. 25. In addition to the bells mentioned at p. 25 as having been cast by William of Norwich, there are three more, namely, at Barningham Northwood, Bintry, and Brampton, inscribed in the letters used by that foimder. EAST DEREHAM, p. 47. Since the account of this foundry was written, bells cast by Joseph Mallows, some as early as 1750, have been found at Beetley, Colkirk, Dersingham, Holme-next-the-Sea, Rejmierstone, and ^Vhinbergh. The inscriptions on the peal at Beetley are remarkable, being partly in cypher, the only instance I have heard of. Thus — J4S2PH 71664WS F2C3T 1752 H289T W93GHT TH471S B92172 CHW It will be seen that the five vowels and the four liquids, a e i o u 1 m n r, are represented by the numerals, 123456789, GREAT YARMOUTH. In the Martham churchwardens' account book, under the year 1647, the Rev. J. J. Raven has found mention of Thomas Dog, of Yarmouth, bell-founder. INSCEIPTIONS C|)e Ct)urci) aSells of i^orfolfe. AcLE, S. Edmund — 5. 1, 2, 3. attn0 Domini 1623. 4. John Brend made me 1654. 5. ©mnis Sonus Eautiet ®0mmum 1623 □ m, M.\)ttnttx. 1, 2, 3, 5, by William Brend. On crowns are three shields : Norwich city ; Brasyer, erm., &c. ; and the monogram -rrr In the 6th Edward VI. there were four hells here. Acre, Castle, S. James — 5. Tenor, diameter 35 in. 1, 2, 4. Thomas Newman made mee 1710. 3. (The same, and) Francis Anderson. 5. John Fox and Thomas Sizeland Churchwardens 1710. 2, 3, 5, are cracked. Four hells 6th Edward VI. Five in 1706. Acre, South, S. George — 3. Tenor diam. 35 in. 1. 1663. (Same make as treble at Barton Bendish.) 2. + In Pltiltis ^nnts G Eesonet Catnpana Eoljls. 3. As God will so be it 1631 □ On crowns of 2 and 3 there are respectively three small and three large shields : Brasyer, ermine, &c. — See p. 31. No. 3 is by William Brend. Four bells 6th Edward VI. Ache, West, All Saints — 1, Diameter 25 in. Prayse ye the Lord 1676 ; (and Bartlett's mark, see p, 59.) Albuegh, All Saints — 8. Tenor G, c. 11 cwt. 1, 2. John Clark John Wright Ch. Wardens 1737. E Phelps fecit. 3, 4, 5. E Phelps fecit 1730. 6. 4- l^ac Kn (JCancIatic n ffiabrfel i^unc ifancfe Suabe. 7. Jn° Burges & Jn" Booty Ch. Wardens; Lester & Pack of London fecit 1766. 8. + Dona ^cpmtie pia n l^orja JHastialcna i^aria. On crowns of 6 and 8 three shields : Brasyer, ermine, &c. — See p. 31. Only fom- bells imtil 1730, when the peal was made six. N 90 INSCKIPTIONS OX THE Alby, S. Ethclbert, K.M.— 1. + AVE : MAEIA : GRA : PIENA : DN'S lECV. (See p. 82.) Three bells in 6th Edward VI. In 1767 the Bishop of Norwich authorized the sale of the two smallest bells, •which were of little use, being so small, and the chm-ch at a distance from the houses. AuDBOROtJGH, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. William Dobson founder, 1824. One beU in 6th Edward VI. Aldeby, Blessed Virgin Mary — 4. 1. Anno Domini 1634. [Diameter 25 in.] 2. Edw. Tooke made me 1677. John Hanner John Sparke. [Diameter 26J in.] 3. Edward Tooke made me 1671. [Diameter 29 in.] 4. Anno Domini 1633. [Diameter 32 in.] On waist of 1, Brasyer's shield. 1 and 4 are both from Brend's foimdrj^. Aldeefoed, S. John Baptist — 1. + I : AM : MAD : IN NAME OF : SEN : ION : BAPTIST. (See p. 82.) In 1796 the parishioners were authorized to take down the north aisle of the church, and to sell two bells, weighing about thirteen cwt., valued at £39. AxTHOEPE, All Saints. No church. Alpington. No church. Anmee, Blessed Virgin Mary — 2. 1. 4- iJirginis ISrjtErjic □ Foror (EDampana ilKariE. On crown three small shields : Brasyer, ermine. — See p. 31. 2. Anno Domini 1573. I. B. [John Brend, sen.] In 1803 the parishioners sold, under a faculty, seven tons of old lead valued at £168, and a cracked bell valued at £6. Antlngham, S. Margaret. In ruins. In 6th Edward VI., three beUs, said to weigh six, thi-ee, and two cwts. ; and but two clappers. Antixgham, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. John Stephens . fecit . 1722. Beniamen Woodrow . Churchwarden. Three bells and but two clappers in 6th Edward VI. In 1702-3, the lead and thatch being very ruinous, and the tower ready to fall, the Bishop granted a license for the sale of " thi-eo useless bells, formerly belonging to the decayed and useless church of Antingham St. Margaret," weighing about seven or eight cwt. In 1764, the whole church being in the greatest state of disrepair, another faculty was granted for the sale of the first and second bells of St. Clary's chui'ch, one being cracked. Appleton, Blessed Virgin Mary. In ruins. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 91 Apton, S. Martin. No church. Mentioned in 1514. It is said in Blomefield and Parkin's ^a^'ory to have been disused about two centuries. Akminghall, Blessed Virgin Mary— 1. Anno Doi 1615. W. B. [William BrencL] The inventory of 6th Edward VI. mentions two bells of two and three cwts., and adds, " Itm the great bell weying iij cwt di leyd to morgage to the seyd M"'. Eogers for xls toward the Keperacions of the seyd Churche." In 1753, the inhabitants were allowed to sell two broken bells, weighing about nine cwts. ; the money to be aj^plied in new paving and seating the church, and erecting a decent pulpit therein. AsHBY, Blessed Virgin Mary — 3. 1. M^ James Holmes Gardian 1708. 2. Anno Domini 1631. 3. + fHissus Vtxa Pic Q Gabriel Jtrt Heta JHarfe. On crown of 3, which is cracked, three shields : Brasyer, diapered. — See j). 10. Stop No. 2., p. 32. Three beUs in 6th Edward VI. AsHBY ciim Oby, Blessed Virgin Mary. In ruins. In 1704 it was stated to be very ruinous. AsHiLL, S. Nicholas — 6. 1. Thomas Osborn fecit 1788 ; John Tenant, William Mallows, Churchwardens. 2. T. Osborn fecit 1788. 3. 4, 5, 6. John Draper made me 1617. The old tenor being cracked was exchanged for 1 and 2. AsHMAK^HAUGH, S. Swithin — 1. + In iEultis ^nnis □ 1^£00ltet Campana JIoJ^is. On crown three small .shields : Brasyer, ermine. — See p. 31. For cross and stop, see No. 2, p. 32 and p. 33. But one bell here in 6th Edward VI. AsHWELTHOEPE, All Saints — 5. 1, 2, 3. Thomas Newman made mee 1707. On 1, J. Covch ; on 2, MHes Cooke, C. W. 4. James Moore and John Huggin 0. W. 1738. T. Newman fecit. 5. Anno Domini 1612. W. I. B. [WiUiam and John Brend.] Forn- bells here in 6th Edward VI. One of the ladders is inscribed " George Ward Churchwarden 1677." AsHWiCKEN-, All Saints — 1. Thomas Newman made mee 1710. Three beUs here 6th Edward VI. The inventory delivered at the Bishop's Visitation of 1709 mentions four bells ; those of 1725 and 1729 mention but three; 1735, four ; 1740, thi-ee. After which no beUs are mentioned until 1784, when there was but one, from which I suppose the rest were sold shortly after 1740. x2 92 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE AsLACTON, S. Michael — 5. 1, 2, 5. Anno Domini 1607. W. 3. Anno Domini, 1614. W. B. 4. Anno Domini 1614. W. B. Three bells in 6th Edward VI. Attleboeough, Blessed Virgin Mary — 6. 1. Eobart . Gurney did me new run 1671. 2. C. Newman made mee 1702. I. Taylor T. Oddin C. W. 3. B Soget]^ ffie JHucf) Eo @oc (Eo ©otis Gf)urcf) 1617. On waist — Market-Steed Chvrch-Steed Reader Beane Bvrton Sporle Oklie Eainols Hooke Gil Greene 4. Soe iJiflt E])m ^larfte Wiit €o Etpent Ei}z 1617. On waist — Havercroft Bvrgh Pilgrim Chamberlane Thayne Osborne Nobbes Taynte Stallan Howe 3, 4, by "William Brand. On crowns are three shields : Norwich city ; Brasyer, ermine, &c. ; and the monogram ^y 5. Anno Domini 1581 ^ I.B. 6. Cast by the subscription of some of the most liberal inhab- itants of this parish 1825. F. Francklin Eector. [By W. Dobson.] There was but one steeple bell here, estimated to weigh seven cwt., in the 6th Edward VI. Blomefield, vol. i. p. 534, 8vo. ed., gives this extract from the parish register: — " 1617. This year on May 5th, the first, second, third, and fifth bells were "finished by William Brend, bell-foimder in K'or^\-ich, and so out of four "there were now five bells, cost 160^." At p. 526, Blomefield has preserved the iascription on the old tenor. 3i hjislj tc lit to libc !)rabtnlg lol7. William Beale John Allen John fStrans; Churchwardens. i^flbcTt «?arlc of Snsscx 23aconst{}orpc WitstUx l^enrg Eorti Jitj.2Baltct '- "antErson DobJC ^f)tltp lincbrt Baronet ( Bralc p)asttngfs Sntljong Drurg I:tnt airi 1 itntuvs ' Burman 2l53rfjstcr Uofin jlorbic i^cctor Eattc S{}0 ©rem 3o\)n pJalman "These" he adds "were aU contributors, the second parcel lived in Bansthorpe " hamlet, and the last in 1 fFesfcar-street." ' Tn Barrett's Memorials of Attleboroiigh, this date is read 1281. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 93 Attlebridge, S. Andrew — 1. 1597. Two bells here 6th Edward VI. In 1720 the parishioners were licensed to sell two bells, one whereof was cracked. Aylmerton, S. John Baptist — 1. AINNO DOMINI 1600 W. Two bells here 6th Edward VI. There were two here in 1845, according to the Visitation Inventory. In an ancient Visitation Book of the Bishop of Norwich is a copy of the churchwardens' account for one year, delivered 13 April, 1601, from which I make the following extracts : — " First to W™ Brend, of ISTorw'^*', bel- " f ownder for the workyng new of the old bell & new mettall for the new "as it may appere by his bill the some of vj" xviij^ vj' bell. The sentence of the 4"" hell is : " All men are home to die, happie is he that liveth godly. Thomas Draper " made me 1581." In 1826, the parishioners obtained a faculty authorizing them to seU their four bells (the largest of which was cracked), weighing about twenty-two cwt., and worth about £80, and to purchase a small one to weigh three cwi;., and to cost £'25. 4s. or thereabouts, the surplus to be applied towards the purchase of an organ. Beestox Regis, All Saints — 1. ^nna Bomini 1610. AB On crown three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -ry Three bells 6th Edward VI. and but two clappers. The two small bells, one of which was cracked, were sold by faculty ia 1 765. Beeston, S. AndreTv. No cliurcli. Beestox, S. Laurence — 1. No inscription. Beetley, S. Mary Mag-dalen — 5. 1. J4S2PH 71664WS F2C3T 1752. 2. JOSEPH 71664WS r2C3T 1752. 3. JOSEPH MALLOWS EECIT 1752. 4. J4S2PH 71664WS r2C3T 1752. 5. JO^ MALLOWS F2C3T 1752. H289Y W93GHT TH47IS B92172 CHW. See p. 88. Three bells here 6th Edward YI. Beightox, All Saints — 1. m,. Saincs, e. ^\^n anno Dammi 1625. [By Wm. Brend]. There were three beUs here 6th Edward YI. Until 1801 the terriers mention four beUs ; ru 1813 there was but one. It would appear that the three smallest were sold. Belaugh near Wroxham, S. Peter — 2, 1. Anno Domini 1610 WB. AB 2. ^nn0 Domini 1610 ^y Three bells 6th Edward YI. The tenor bell having been split from time immemorial, and weighing about 6? cwt., was sold in 1770, by a faculty from the Bishop of Norwich. Berxey. See Baexey. Bessixgham, Blessed Yirgin Mary — 2. 1. Charles Newman made mo 1699. 2. Blank. Two bells here 6th Edward YI. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 101 Besthoepe, All Saints-- 5. 1, 2, 5. Henry Pleasant made me 1702. 3. John Draper made he 1617. 4. + OMNIPOTENS DOMINVS SVA GEA NOS BENE- DICAT. [Probably by Thomas Potter.] In 1840 the parishioners had a faculty empowering them to sell the lead from the roof and one boll to put the remaining ioxir into repair. The hell was not sold, nor have the others been put into repaii-. Bexwell, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Diameter 28 in. + MAGISTER JOHANNES EISTON ME FECIT. See p. 23. Two hells here 6th Edward VI. It appears from the JEast Anglian, vol. ii., p. 177, that a hell, weighing 4 cwt. 1 qr. 18 lbs., was sold for £17. 12s. 9d. to IMi-. Richard Safifcry, Churchwarden of Downham. No date is given, but it was after 1711. BiCKERSTON, S. Andrew. No church. BiLLiNGFORD, alias Prelestox, S. Leonard — 1. Diameter 22 in. Tho. Gardiner Svdbvry me fecit 1714. But one bell 6th Edward VI. BiLLiNGFORD near Elmham, S. Peter + En fHbltt's ^nnfs Irlcsonet Campiana Sofiannis* On crown three shields : Brasyer. Three bells here in 1552. In 1768 there were two bells, and the larger, weighing- about seven cwt., was sold by faculty. BiLLOCKBY, All Saints — 1. Tower in ruins, 1761. But one bell 6th Edward VI. BiLNEY, East, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1 . AB anno ©omini 1625. ^ Two bells in 6th Edward VI. BiLNEY, West, S. Cecilia — 1. Diameter 29 in. Thomas Newman made mee 1710. E.D. W.C. C.W. There were three bells here till 1753, in which year a faculty was granted aiithorizing the sale of two, the proceeds to be applied towards roofing the church. Binham, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. I. B. 1656. [John Brend, jun.] This hangs in a cot on the west gable of the nave. Four bells here 6th Edward VI. It appears from a faculty, dated 1741, that a bell wcigliing two or thi-ee cwt., hanging in the churchyard, had been broken by some persons unknown, who had stolen about seventeen or eighteen pounds weight of it. Having a bell hanging on the west gable of the nave, the parishioners were authorized to sell the broken bell and apply the money arising from such sale to the purchase of Communion plate. 102 I^scRIPTIO^■s on the BiXTuy, S. Swithin— 3. 1. Blank. 2. + Sulci's Sista fHcIis □ Campa Vacot fHidjIs* For cross and stop see No. 2, p. 31 and p. 33. No shields on tliis bell. 3. + MARIA : MATER : DEI : MESREEE : BEK^EFACTORIBVS : MEI. [By William of Norwich.] For cross see p. 25. Thomas Blome of Bj-ntre, by -n-ill dated 1483, gave 20s. to the repair and emen- dation of the bells of this chm-ch. BiRCHAM, Great, Blessed Virgin Mary — 5. 1,2. No inscription. 3. Jolin Draper made me 1635. 4. Tho. Newman fecit 1720. 5. Charles Newman made mee 1700. In 6th Edward YI. there were three bells and a sante bell of two stones weight, BiRCHAii Newtox, All Saints — 1. M. E. 1762. One bell here 6th Edward VI. BiRCHAM Tofts, S. Andrew — 1. T. Newman made mee 1705. W. Wacey and T. Johnson. Three bells here 6th Edward VI. BiTTERiA'G Magna. No chm-ch. BiTTERiNG Pakva, SS. Peter and Paul — 1. No inscription. A very small bell ; it hangs in one of the arches of a double bell-cot. There was no beU here 6th Edward "S^. BixLEY, S. Wandragesilius — 1. G. Mears, Founder, London, 1858. I to the chm-ch the living call And to the grave do summons all. Two bells 6th Edward VI. j\Ir. Ivimber has preseiwed a drawing of the inscription on one of the old bells. It appeai-s to have been cast by William Revel, and was inscribed. AV -\- scE : lOHES : baptista : ora : pro : me Blakexey, S. Nicholas — 1. Charles Newman made mee 1699. LB. T.T. CW. Fom- beUs here 6th Edward VI. It appears from a faculty dated 1802, that the expense of re-rooting the church would be £309. 18s. 9d. ; that there were at Blakeney church five bells, foiir whereof were broken ; that the chapel of Glanford had been in ruins many years, and that there were belonging to the said chapel one bell and twelve pigs of load, which with the four broken bells were worth £120. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 103 Blicicling, S. Andrew — 1. Charles Newman made me 1703. Three bells here 6th Edward VI., estimated to weigh respectively ten, fourteen, and sixteen cwts., and a Gabryell of one hundred lbs. The following entries are extracted from the Churchwardens' Account Book. "July 20th 1703 An Account of the Waight of Blickling old bells & y^ Waight of y" New. cwt. qr. lb. The waight of y^' Saint Bell 1 1 11 The waight of y« old Treble 3 17 The waight of y«= old Secound . . . . ..410 The waight of y'' New treble . . The waight of y" New Secound cwt. qr. lb. Item for Casting of 8 3 18 which the old BeUs /*. s. d. wayed 10 13 Item for 1 . 1 . 7 of New Mettle aded To the old Bell 6 17 9 8 3 18 4 5 2 23 2 2 10 25 in all .. 17 10 9" " 1718 Nou^ 20 Paid to John Stephens for makeing y Great Bell . . . . ..1600 for 2 jorneys with my cart to Norwich one to carry the spht Bell and the other to bring y new Bell . . . . . . ..0100 for our Charges at Norwich when the Bell was cast . . . . 3 " The chui-ch being much out of repair, and the steeple in danger of falHng, the inliabitants obtained a faculty authorizing them to take it do-wTi, and sell five of their six bells. The following extracts from the Churchwardens' Book show what was done. " 1751, 2 Dec. Paid for the Bishops fiaculty to sell the Bells . . . . 3 18 4 5 Feb. 1753. To a bill paid Sam Underwood for helping to take down the steeple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..7183 28 Feb. More a bill to Richard fforster upon the same account . , 8 12 9 30 November 1753 then sold to M'' ffrancis Tomling ffive Bells weighing 37 Himdred weight at 3 14 p Hundi-ed amounting to 136 18 off which fforty two poimds and Eighteen shillings is now paid and the remainder being- Ninety ffour pounds is hereby agreed to be paid in April next \Vliich we hereby acknowledge to be true Fra Tomliag Mart" Sendall Chui-ch warden " The porch and steeple were repait-ed or rebuilt 1760, when the money arising from the sale of the beUs appears to have been expended. Blofield, S. Andrew — 6. 1. Eev-^. J. D, Borton Eector. T. Mears of Loudon fecit 1826. J. D. Postle, Eob*. Goulder, Churchwardens. Raised by voluntary contributions in the Year of our Lord 2. Anno Domini 1581. LB. [John Brend, sen.] o. John Brend made me 1656. 4. Elias Brend made me 1660. 104 INSCRIPTIONS OS THE 5. + 3In fHuItts Slnnis Ecsonct dampana Y:a\)T^. 6. John Stephens made nie 1719. Edward Whaites, William Black, Churchwardens. Five tells here 6tli Edward VI., 6, 8, 10, 14, and 18 cwts. Blo Norton. See Norton, Blo. BoDHAM, All Saints — 1. Thomas Mears, founder, London, 1840. The Inventory of 6th Edward VI. mentions but one bell, but on a separate piece of paper is this memorandum : — " M. that ij belles were carried away by " S'' Huge Elye & WiUm Faconer & Eychard Coste To S'' Fraunces .... " Knyght wayeng by estymacyon ^nij'^ and this was done in the xxx's-iij*'' " yere of kyng Hemy the \Tijt'' w*out the consent of the p'ishers." In 1828 the parishioners had a faculty to sell two of their three bells, woiih about £43. 9s., the expense of the repairs to be done to the church amounting to £290. BoDNEY, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Diameter 16 in. No inscription. Booton, S. Michael — 1. 1824. The parishioners in 1824 obtained a faculty, authorizing them to sell three of theii" foiu- bells which were cracked, and weighed about sixteen c\\'t. BouGHTOx, All Saints — 3. Diameter 30 in. 1 and 2. John Draper made me 1627. 3. Francis Woods Church Warden A.D. 1807, [By Dobson.] BowTnoETE, S. Michael. Church in ruins. It appears that in 1G36 John Bread estimated that a bell and frame would cost £13. 6s. Bd. Bracon Ash, S. Nicholas — 1. T. Mears & Son of London fecit 1807. One bell 6th Edward VI. "V^Ticn Blomefiold -u-rote the bell himg in a frame in the chm-chyard. It is now in a cot on the west gable. On the gable of a farm-house in this parish hangs a tolerable-sized bell, inscribed " lohn Hobart made me 1671." Bradenuam, East, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Diameter 34 in. John Draper made me 1620 □ For stop see p. 46 Three bells here 6th Edward VI. In 1833 the parishioners set forth in tlicu- petition for a faculty to sell two bells, that in consequence of a handsome donation of £oO by the patron and £120 by the rector, the churchwardens had done all the repau-s but those to the tower, the expense of which and the hanging one bell would amount to £150. They had thi-ee bells, two of which were useless, and Mv. Thomas Hiu-ry had offered to hang the remaining bell without charge, and allow tlicm £56 for the two bells. CHURCH BKLLS OF NORFOLK. 105 Bbadenhaju, West, S. Andrew — 2. 1. -\-Vi15ini5 ©grcgie □ Focor Campana fflart'c. 2. John Draper made me 1625, [Diameter 37 in.] On the crown of 1, three shields : Brasyer diapered. — See p. 10. The initial cross and the words Yu-ginis and Marie have heen cut ofl". There were three bells here 6th Edwiu-d YI. and also when Blomefield wrote. The lost one appears to have been the treble. Bradestox, S. Michael — 1. + fl^fc jFit Sccrutn Campa ilautic Banorum [on shoulder] eEtllcam Palm£r. In 1762 the parishioners, notwithstanding they had had a faculty to sell their lead, applied for, and obtained, a faculty to sell two of their thi-ee bells, weighing about twelve cwt. Bbadfield, S. Giles — 1. Anno Domini 1635. I.B. [John Brend, juu.] Three bells here 6th Edward VI. In 1 786 a faculty was granted for the sale of tkree of the four bells at this church, weighing about thii'ty cwt., and worth about £70 ; also old lead worth about £195. The faculty sets forth that there were only nine faim-houses and fourteen cottages ; that the church had a nave and two aisles 54 feet long and 41 feet wide ; that it was proposed to take down the aisles and fill up the space between the arches at an expense of £280. 3s. lOd. Brakexdaxe, S. Nicholas. No Church. Bramerton, S. Peter — 1. 2rf)oma5 (Coro Slnno ©Dmnu 1609. [By William Brend.] The family of Corj- were settled at Bramerton from 1403 to 1682. — Blomefield, vol. v., p. 473. Two bells were sold from this chui'ch about 1832. Beamptox, S. Peter— 1. + AVE: :maria : gracia: plexa : DOiin^vs : tecvai : For cross, see p. 25. Two bells 6th Edward YI. Br.ustcaster, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Henry Shute Eector Thomas Osborne Downham Pecit 1791. Thi-ee beUs 6th Edward YI. In 1790, all three bells being broken, a faculty was obtained authori;iing theii- sale, and the purchase of a new bell not weighing more than five or .six cwt. : th" sur[jlus of the money arising from the sale to be applied to repairs. Braxdestox, S. Nicholas — 1. A]> Anno Domini 160G -py Three beUs and two clappers 6th Edward YI. In 1772 a faculty was granted for the sale of two small bells weighing about nine cwt., and worth about £30. Brakdox Parta, All Saints — 1. + f^ac 3Iix Condabc □ Gafarffl Xuc ^angc Suaijr. On crown, three shields : Brasyer. — See p. 31. P 106 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE This bell was the treble to a peal of three, the inscriptions of which are given in Blomefield. 2. Sum 2A0sa i^ulsata fHunii fHaria Focata. 3. IX HOXORE SANCTE MARIE ET SAN'CTE CATERINE VIRGINIS. They were sold by faculty in 1764. Beeccles, S. Margaret — 2. 1. No inscription. 2. + Wos ^xm Baptiste □ Salbcnt QTua Uulnera IpT. On crown, three shields : Brasyer, &c. — See p. 31. Beessixgham, S. Jolin Baptist — 5. 1. + Sanct£ ♦ Sciljannrs . ©ra . ^ro . No&i's. 2. + Sancta . ^nna . ©xr . ^xa . Xofafs. 3. Illegible. 4. Miles Graye made ine 1671. Henry Fallows ) r^^ ■, ^ Tt7-iT -D i Cnurchwardens. vVilliam Kowe ) 5. Thomas Lester of London made me 1751. On crowns of 1 and 2, three shields : Bell and cross-keys. — See p. 62. On crown of 3, thi-ee shields : Brasyer. — See p. 31. The weights of the beUs, 6th Edward VI., are stated as 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 cwts. Blomefield quotes an entry from the Churchwardens' Account -book, showing that in 1644 John Nun was paid 3s. 4d. for two days work, "taking down glass and pictures about the chui-ch, and t/ie letters about the bells." His work was efi"ectually done as far as regards the third bell, but the inscriptions on 1 and 2, although terribly mutilati/d, are still legible. Beettexham, S. Andrew — 5. Tenor, 9 cwt., Gr. Diameter 40 in. 1. Jolm Taj-lor & Son founders Lobro'. iEIl|abctf) Buitou + ©laria in ciceIsis Beo a.S. 1830 + 2. John Taylor & Son founders Loughborough. Isabella 33uiton + (Euwx b0co ijcnite a.ID. 1S50 + 3. John Taylor & Son of Loughborough founders A.D. 1852. 4. John Taylor & Son of Loughborough founders Late of Oxford A.D. 1852. .5. John Taylor & Son BeU-founders Loughborough Leicester- shire, A.D. 1852. There were two bells, of five and seven cwt. respectively, in the 6th Edward YI. The church was burnt in 1693, and when Blomefield -v^Tote there was but one bell. The present peal was the gift of ]\Iis3 Isabella Buxton. EUzabeth Lady Buxton, whose name is on the treble bell, rebuilt the church in 1852-3 at a cost of £2000. Beidgham, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. John Draper made me 1632. Blomefield says (i. 439) " there are two bells which hang in a shed in the church- yard." I have been told there were three, that one was stolen and another sold for £10 a few years since. The remaining one has been hung in a cot. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 107 Briningham, S. Maurice— 1. E. T. 1674. [Edward Tooke] One bell 6th Edward VI. In 1740 there were three hells, in 1806 hut one. I imagine they were sold shortly after 1740, x^rohably without leave from the Bishop. Brinton, S. Andrew — 1. I B 1617. One hell of six cwt. 6th Edward VI. Brisley, S. Bartholomew — 4. 1. E. T. 1673. (Cracked.) [Edward Tooke.] 2. Thomas Newman made me 1712, 3. ^nno IBanxini 1612. 4. Tho Newman made me Eobert King & William Collison C.W. 1737. AB On crown of 3, thi-ee shields : Isorwieh city, Brasyer, ermine, and -,^7- Three hells 6th Edward VI. Briston, All Saints — 1 . Diameter 30 in. A. D. 1631. Four h?lls 6th Edward VI. It appears from a faculty dated 1785, that the church, "a very antient fahrick," (69 feet hy 21 feet) was much larger than necessary, and that the north aisle was quite unnecessary; leave was granted to sell lead valued at £212, and four bells, worth about £75, wholly useless and standing in the church, the steeple having been down many years. Brockdish, SS. Peter and Paul — 6. 1. 3. ^ti iHaiorem ^ti ffiloriam mticcclibu 2. Henry Pleasant made me 1697. 4. + ViiQo (Jaranata [] ©nc i^os St» Ectjna 3Seata, On crown, three shields : Brasyer. — See p. 10. 5. + Sancta . Maria . Ora . Pro . Nobis. On crown, three shields : Bell and cross-keys.— See p. 62. Blomefield mentions that this bell is said to have been brought from Pulham in exchange. 6. Laurence G-ibbs Eector John Crickmore Churchwarden. Thomas Osborn fecit 1801. Clock bell, no inscription. Brasyer, ermine, &c., p. 31. Four bells here in 1552. The inscriptions on the bells recast in 1866 were : — 1. Edward Tooke made me. 3. Henry Pleasant made me 1697. 1 is said to have come from St. Martin at Palace, Norwich. Brooke, S. Peter — 6. 1. Joseph Mallows of East Dereham Fecit 1758.,... 2. Blank. 3. Joseph Mallows fecit 1758. V 2 108 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE 4. + 3:n fHuItis 9lm's H Ecsonct (Capana 3ofits. On cro\sTi, three small shields : Brasycr. — See p. 31. For cross, see p. 26. 5. Come rais us well and ring us right Then all that hear will take delight. 6. As our loud sound doth spread abroad So let all breaths sing praise the Lord 1758. On stock, B. Harwin, E. Roberts, 1822. Five bells here 6th Edward VI. The late Dr. Beal gave me the following memorandum, copied from the parish papers : " April 3, 1758, 4 bells taken down to be new cast by Joseph Mallows " of East Dearham. April 4, agreed with llr. Spall to carry the 4 bells to *' Dearham and bring the 4 new ones for £3. 3s." Broome, S. Michael — 5. Tenor A, diameter 36 in. 1, 2, 4. John Brend made me 1640. 3. T. Osborn fecit 1792. John Killington Churchwarden. 5. Thomas Newman made mee 1 706. Four beUs 6th Edward VI. Broo:u:hill. Xo clun-ch. BROOiiSTHOEPE. No cliurch. Beuxdall, S. Laurence — 1. 1778. This bell hangs in one of the arches of a double beU-cot, on the west gable of the nave. Being splined up the date only could be seen. A hawk had a nest inside the cot ; wliilst on the north side was a bees' nest, and on the south a hornets'. The inventory of 6th Edward VI. says, " they have no bells." Beuxstead, S. Peter — 1. + P?ac 3n CandaijE n (Gatricl i^uc Pantje Suabc. On crown, three shields: Brasycr, ermine. — See p. 31. Cross, Xo. 2, p. 32. Stop, p. 33. Three steeple bells 6th Edward VI. In 1733, the Bishop gi-anted leave to sell the two largest of the three beUs, one of which was cracked. All three had for many years been taken down, the frames were broken, and the tower was imequal to the weight of the bells. BucKENiLVM Ferry, S. Nicholas — 1. No inscription. Apparently an old bell. Two bells 6th Edward VI. BucKENHAM, New, S. Martin — 6. Tenor, diameter 38 in. 1. "Dobson 1814." 2. My song shall be alway of the loving kindness of the Lord. 3. Prosperity to the Town of New Buckenham 1814. 4. Fear God, Honour the King. 5. Benjamin Sword and John Grail Churchwardens 1814. 6. In commemoration of Peace these six bells were cast in the year 1814. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 109 L'nder the date of 16 July, 1814, we read in the Norivich Mercury, "A new peal " of six musical bells, the weight of the tenor about twelve cwt., are now casting " at the foundery at Downham, for the noble tower of the parish church of " Xew Buckenham, Norfolk." On the 24 Sej^tember, 1814, the following notice appeared : — '' To Lovers of Harmony. " The new peal of beUs in the parish chm-ch of New Buckenham, will be opened " on Wednesday 28 September inst., and a prize of 6 hats, value 10s. each, " will be given to the Company of six who shall give proof of their skill in " i-inging the best peal. In order to impartiality, the precedency in ringing " is to be decided by lot." Buckenham, Old, All Saints — 6. 1. Christopher Gibbs & George Gedge Ch : Wardens 1757 T. L. T. P. 2. Lester & Pack fecit 1757. 3. + Tho. Gardiner + Sudbury -i- fecit 1722. 4. lolm Draper made me 1622. 5. Pack & Chapman of London fecit 1772. 6. + Tho. Gardiner -i- Sudbury fecit 1722. There are ten impressions of a coin of Queen Anne on this bell. The Inventory of 6th Edward VI. mentions one bell only, but an unfinished and cancelled memorandum assorts that Sir Edmund Knyvet did take away two bells. A brass inscription in the chm-ch records that Matthew Sturdyvant, who died in 1604, gave by his yd]l £20 towards three new bells. BucKENH.-OT, Old, S. Andrew. In 1602 the chm-ch had been " decayed about three skore yearse," and was then used as a barn by Sir Thomas LoveU. BucKExmui Tofts or Parva, S. Andrew. No church. BuirwELL, S. Michael — 6. Tenor A, c. 11 cwt. 1. James Baldwin, Eector, James Baldwin, Jnr., John Blake, 1733 ; T. N. 2. Henry Pleasant made me 1699. 3. John Blake Henry Pleasant made me 1699. 4. T. Newman fecit, Stephen Cann Samuel Tubby C.W. 1732. 5. Thomas Newman made me John Walpole Thomas Blake 1732. 6. John Brend made me 1612. ( Three steeple bells weighing, by estimation, twenty-eight cwt. in the 6th Edward VI. There were five beUs here in 1740, six in 1747. It does not appear from the inscriptions how the increase was efifected, unless the date on the treble is 1743. BiJRGH Apton, SS. Peter and Paul — 6. 1. Edw. Tooke made me 1678. 2. E T 1674 [Edward Tooke.] 3. lohn Brend made me 1656. \. Edw. Tooke made rao 1677. 110 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE 5. Auuo Domini 1628 W. B [William Brend] 6. + Petnis Sit) (Btmxz □ Bucat i^os ^ascua Fite. On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31 ; cross No. 2, p. 32 ; stop p. 33. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Burgh near Aylsham, Blessed Virgin INIary — 1. + ifac ilEargareta i^abi's P^ec fHunera iLcta. On crown, tlu'ee small shields : Brasyer, p. 31 ; cross p. 26. Three hells 6th Edward YI, In 1733 a faculty was granted authorizing the sale of several pieces of a hell, which had been for nearly fifty years thrown up and down in the church, and were computed to weigh nearly five cwt. [sic], and to be worth £13 [sic]. Burgh next !^L\.TTI shall, S. Peter — 1. Thomas Newman made me 1743. Three bells 6th Edward YI. In 1 755 the parishionei's had a faculty to sell two bells, one whereof was cracked. Burgh (Flegg), S. Margaret — 3. Tenor A. 1 . No inscription. 2. Edw. Tooke made me 1676. 3. Anno Domini 1578 I.B [Jolin Brend, sen.] Three bells 6th Edward YI. BuEGH (Flegg), S. Mary. In ruins : it was used as a barn in 1602. Burgh Parva, Blessed Virgin Mary. In ruins. Burgh, South, S. Andrew — 2. 1. n goti □ ammtJ H ma 2. Anno Donn 1564 EB. IB. These bells hang in a shed in the churchyard. On crown of 1, three shields : Brasyer, p. 10 ; stop p. 33. For second bell, see p. 34. Two bells 6th Edward YI. Burgh, S. Peter — 1. Edw. Tooke made me 1678. The faculty, authorizing the sale of two bells, is dated 1793. It recites that the Bishop had lately received a petition showing that the Eev. Samuel Boycatt intended to repair and build the steeple, and that two of the bells which were useless greatly impeded his progress. One of them was cracked, and of very base metal, and both were not worth more than £8. The steeple was to be built entirelj' at ]Mi'. Boycatt' s expense, and the money arising from the sale of the beUs, after paj-ing for the faculty, was to be expended in the piirchase of new cloths for the pulpit, and other ornaments. Burlingham, North, S. Andrew — 3. 1. + AVE : GEACIA : PLENA : DNS : TECV M : : 2. 4- : : MAGDALENA : DUG : NOS : AD : GAUDIA : PLENA : : 3. + : A TEMPEST ATE : PEOTEGAS : NOS PETEE : BEATE : : For letters, see plates at p. 80. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. Ill BuELiNGHAM, NoRTH, S. Peter — 3. 1. + © Presul Pi'£ n MicW^z Nobis Mmxtu, On crown three shields : Biasyer, p. 10. Cross No. 2, p. 32 ; stop p. 83. 2. 4- f^ec iFit Scarum \Z\ Campa jBautie Bonorum. 3. 4- ];n JHuItis 2lnni0 □ lacsonft Campana 3al)Ts. On crowns of 2 and 3, three small shields : Brasyor, j). 31. The stop on 3 is the tliree-legged pot, engraved at p. 10. BuBLiNGHAM, SouTH, S. Edmund — 3. 1. WiUiam o Linstead o S. John o Marten 1664 T B E B. [Tiiomas and Elias Brend.] After Linstead is a large medallion : the device, a lion rampant. 2. ANNO DOMINI 1606 W. [William Brend. J 3. + P£tru3 aij ISetrne ©ucat ISa^ Pascua Uite. On crown, thi-eo smaU shields : Brasyer, p. 31. Two beUs here "in the chm-chyarde " 6th Edward VI. In the wiU of Henry Swanne of South Burlingham, dated 6 Jiily, 1535, is the following, " Itm I gyfF to y haloweng of y'' gret bell vj^ rii]^ yff the to-mi he so conten & plesyd if they do it not to stond voyd." — Originals, None. Arch. Btjrnham, S, Andrew. No cliurcli. BuENHAM Deepdale, Blesssd Virgin Mary — 1 . + AVa . MAEIA . GEACIA . PLENA . UN'sKIMVS . TSCY . MDapaY. On crown, three crowned heads, see p. 55. BuENHAM Norton, S. Margaret — 1. + UirginiQ ^rjrcgi'c □ Focor Campana iHarfe, On crown, three shields : Brasyer, see p. 10. BuENHAM Overt, S. Clement — 1. + ?^ac En Conclabc □ Gabriel i^unr Pange Suauc. On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31. Two bells here 6th Edward VI. BuRNHAM Sutton, S. Ethelbert. In 1771 a faculty was granted, authorising the demolition of this church, which was not more than two furlongs from Bumham Ulph, and the sale of the bell. BuRNHAM Thorpe, All Saints — 1. Elias Brend 1658. BuRNHAM Ulph, All Saints — 1. Thomas Newman made me 1733. Ealph Gibbs C W. This bell hangs in one of the arches of a double bell-cot ; it is said its companion fell douTi about one hunch-ed years ago, when being rung for a wedding. The Inventory of 6th Edward VI. is much mutilated, but it appears that one of the bells weia-hed two cwt. seven stones. 112 IXSCKIPTIOXS OX THK BuENHAM Westgate, Blessed Virgin Mary — 4. 1. Anno Domini 1627 Vy A p. 2, 3, 4. Anno Domini 1629 '-Ty Three bells 6tti Edward VI. BuKSTox, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. lOHN DAEBIE MADE ME 168;]. There were fom- bells here 6th Edward VI. In 1754 the parishioners represented to the Bishop that the steeple had lately fallen do^vn, and that the expense of rebuilding it would be £225, which they were unable to stand. They therefore obtained leave to sell four of their five bells, and to take down the remaining part of the tower. Blomefield gives the inscription on one of these bells, ^iz., ©ucsumus ^ntirca JFamuIorum Susctpc Fata. BuxTOX, S. Andrew — 5. 1. Thomas Newman made mee 1707. 2, 3, 4. lohn Brend made me 1657. 5. Per me fideles invoeantvr ad preces 1657 LB. The Inventory of 6th Edward VI. mentions thi-eebeUs, of 6, 8, and 10 c-«-ts., and " a C'lok belle " valued at 3s. 4d. Bylaugh, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. The Rev. Henry Lombe, of Bylaugh Park, informs me that the bell, is dated "1866." The Bell-foimders, "Messrs. Mears and Stainbanck, AMiitechapel, London." I leam from the 1865 Terrier that the old beU was dated 1620. Caister by Y-ARMOUxn, Holy Trinity — 1. Filii dei vivi miserere nobis Anno Domini 1581 LB. [John Brend, sen.] Tkree bells here in 1552. In 1796 a faculty was obtained for the sale of two bells — supposed to weigh about twenty cwt., and to be worth £50 — which had been useless for several years by decay of the frames. The money to be applied towards erecting six new seats at the west end of the church, and battening and stuccoing the north wall, which would cost more than £80. Caister by Yarmouth, S. Edmund. In ruins. Caistor by Norwich, S. Edmund — 3. 1. Anno Domini 1591 W.B. 2. Anno Domini 1592 W. 3. + AVE : MARIA. [See p. 85.] 1 and 2 by AViUiam Brend. But one bell 6th Edward VI. Caldecot, Blessed Virgin Mary. In ruins in 1604. Caxthoep, Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Margaret — 1. Anno Domini 1568 LB. [John Brend, sen.] Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1806 old lead worth £222. 14s., and two bells, weighing about one ton, and worth £93. 6s. 8d., were sold by faculty to a.s.sist the parishioners to repair their church. CHURCH BEL1,S OF NORFOLK. llrj Calverley. There lias not been a church for centuries. Caj^telose, All Saints. No church. Cantley, S. Margaret — 1. I . B. 1639. [John Brend, jun.] One bell in 1552. Caebrooke, SS. Peter and Paul — 5. 1,2. R G- 1669. [By Robert Gurney.] 3. + l^ac En Concla&c □ ©abri'cl Nunc ^:mge Suaijc, 4. 4- laetrus Sti clecne ©ucat □ iJlos pascua Ui'tc. 5. Edw : Tooke made me 1678. On crowns of 3 and 4, three shields : Brasyer, ermine, p. 31. Four bells 6th Edward VI. It appears from the Visitation Inventories that up to 1784 there were five bells and a small saint's bell, which latter appears to have been sold before 1791. The Terrier oi 1716 has the following: "Item " there is an acre called the Bell reap acre now in the use of Henery Womock "y* pays yearly a Stone of hemp towards repairing the Bell reaps." In 1753 : " Itm there is payd by y« Lord of y^ Mannor or his order four sliill' "or one Ston of hemp every year towards maintaining y^ Bell Eopes." In 1845 this is varied to " There should be paid," &c. Carleton, East, Blessed Yirgiu Mary — 1. AB ann0 ISamint 1620 ^y One steeple bell 6th Edward Vl. Carleton Forehoe, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. John Brend made me 1656. \_Ex inform. Eev. F. Raikes.] Carletojj" Rode, All Saints — 1. lohn DrajDer made me 1634. Five bells 6th Edward VI. About April, 1755, the south-east buttress of the tower fell and damaged the chm-ch. In 1756 a faculty was granted, authorizing the sale of four bells, towards the repair of the church and the erection of a cupola for the remaining bell. CARLEToif, S. Peter — 4. 1. Edward Tooke . . made me 1672. 2. Ellas Brend made me 1660. 3. Thomas Newman made mee 1707. 4. Thomas . . . Newman . . of . . Norwich . . made . . me . 1731. Three bells here 6th Edward VI. In 1860, when these inscriptions were copied, the tenor beU had fallen, and the stock and wheel were gone. C ARROW, S. James. No church. Casewick, S. Clement. No church. Castle Acre. See Acre, Castle. Castle Rising. See Rising, Castle. Q 114 IXSCRIPTIOXS OX THE Caston, Hoi}' Cross — 6. 1. Josepli Mallos of East Dearham Fecit 1756. 2. 3, 4, 5, 6. In longum pevum resonemus laudes Joshuse Draper qui done dedit Ann Dom 1726. Three bells 6th Edward VI. It appears from the Visitation Inventories that from 1706 to 1756 there were five hells. In the Inventory of 1760 the weight of the new peal is given as follows : 1,3 cwt. 2 qrs. lbs. ; 2, 3 cwt. 3 qrs. 18 lbs. ; 3, 4 cwt. 1 qr. 17 lbs. ; 4, 5 cwt. 1 qr. 26 lbs. ; 5, 6 cwt. 3 qrs. 14 lbs. ; 6, 8 cwt. 3 qrs. 21 lbs. The five large beUs came from West Harling : see under that parish. Catfield, All Saints — 5. 1, 2, 4. Anno Domini 1630. 3. T. Mears of London fecit 1821. 5. Anthoni Harison rector Eicliard Postil I.C churcli wardens ano 1630 □ Catfild. The stop is the face engraved at p. 26. Three bells 6th Edward VI. In the parish register are the following entiies in the handwriting of Anthony Harrison, who was rector when the bells were cast. " Memorandum y nineteenth day of June A" Dn> 1630 y= fower olde bells of Catfeilde were changed and cast into hrve sweete and tuneable well tuned bells as appeares fol. 61 of this booke. " The Times and Tunes doe change we see And wee in them ofte changed bee The Truith hereof these times vs tells By change of fower olde Catfeild bells "UTiich changed are from fower to five By Catfeild People all alive But for whose soule they first shall knell That God alone cann only tell The Changers which did change the ring That after times their tunes male sing Were the churchwardens of this yeare \\Tiose names subscribed doe appear " Richard Postill and John Church sonne of William Church Churchwardens. " Antho Harison Eector. " Thomasen Wigger, the daughter of Christofer Wigger and Elizabeth his wife, a maiden of \^ age of K\Tieteene yeares y^ xxj'^'i daye of Julie laste, was buried y^ firste daye of September 1630 and had y« first knell after y casting of y^ sayd bells." Fo. 61 referred to above is loose in the chui-ch chest, from which I transcribe the following : — " M"! on y« xviij day of March A" Dni 1630 In y^ sixth yeare of the reigne of our sou'eign Lord King Charles some of the parishioners were desirous to have the fower olde beUes in Catfeild to be cast into fyve and therevpon made motion to Richard Postil being then one of the churchwardens w**> John Church y^ yoimger whoe was j" only sonne of William Church to consent therevnto The other parishioners being moued herevnto did all (except three or fom-) lyke and approue of the motion and sett downe vnder their hands what they would willingly contribute towards that business. CHURCH BELLS OF XOKl'OLK. 115 " The voluntary Contributions amounted to aboute xxiij'' Herevpon y" Parisliioners made Petition to y<= Lo Bps. Chaimcello'' as foUoweth. " To the right wo''" Doctor Corbett most worthie Chancelloiir of the Diocess of Norwich The Petition of the Parishioners of Catfeild. " Wherein they humbly shewe that whereas there were fewer %Tisorteable Bells belonging to their chui'ch The greatest of w<^*> is somewhat to greate for y<= other thi-ee, and to waightie for y'' steeple w'^^ \)y reason of former earth- quakes is rifte and ancored : Now all y*' parishioners w*'> mutuaU consent have agreed that the sayd fower belles shall be new caste w* out diminution of y" weight of y" metall as nere as can be guessed by the bell founder, and made into f j've new tuneable and consortable belles And because there are only 3 or 4 of y parisliioners whoe wUl not be p'swaded willingly or contribute to this good woorke The rest of y*^ parishioners w*'' the consent of ]\Ir. Anthony Harison Rector and the Churchwardens, are humble suitors for your lawfull fauour and direction herein and so humbly take our leaves Jime 10"' A" 1630. " Yo^ AVCj^s in all love and humble dutie Eichard Postill and Antho Harison clic. Eector John Church y? young'' chm-ch AVardens. " This Petition being exhibited to ilr. Chauncellor he subscribed as followeth, viz: — " I doe very well like and approue this mencioned business, ha\dng scene the approbation of all the Parishioners but three w* I hope and wish not to persist to be -v-ntuneable in so Hamionicall a worke, w<='' j -will furder with my best assistance. "JimelO, 1630 " Cle. Corbett. " M allowed. " On Satterdaye in the nyght t>Tne the 5 bells were brought to Catfield into j" varde of y^ sayde Eichard PosteU whoe then dwelt in the Lordship of Catfield the xix* of June 1630 And they were fitted for Stocks &: wheeles &; were hung vp in the steeple againe on Satm-day the Tenth day of Jidie 1630. " The chief charge & cost of casting the fyve bells— 'imprimis to William Brend bell foimder of the parish of All Saints in Best q2 12 10 2 27i 2" 6 9 4 3 19 10 231 / 3 1^ 3 15 4 2 23 4 2 2 IIG INSCRIPTIONS ON THE fcjtreete in the eittie of Norwich Thirteene pownds whereof seaven pownds at or before the casting & six pownds at Catfield church porch on the second day of ffebruarie next ensiung . . . . . . . . . . xiij'' "Itm to Kichard Postill & Henry Kechani carpenters for fitting the fyve bell frames in the steeple . . . . . . . . . . . . . vj" " Item to Eobert skyfiin of Ludham blacksmith for clappers & Iron worke iij" " Item to Eichard PosteU for 5 baldricks of wood . . . . . , . . xx' '• Tot xxiijii. "The superscription cast vjjon the greate fift bell is A" 1630 Anthony Harison Kector Eichard Postil I C (that is John Chm-ch) Churchwardens Catfild. " Antho Harison cler." Catton, S. Margaret — 1. AB ~ Snn0 liommi 1620 ^ Throe bells 6th Edward VI. This appears to have been the tenor to a peal of three ; the others were sold between 1770 and 1777, probably in 1773, when the gallery was erected. OATTOiSr, New, Christ Cliurcli — 1. Thomas Mears Founder London 1841. CAWSTOisr, S. Agnes — 6. 1. Blank. 2. T. Mears of London Fecit 1818. 3. Thomas Newman made me 1733. Anthony Atthill & John Eainger C W. 4. John Brend made me 1658. 5. John Stephens made mee 1717. Anthony Atthill Edword Porrowe Chvreh-wardens. 6. Tho. Gardiner Norwich Fecit 1753. Edward Atthdl William Beck C W. Four bells 6th Edward VI., 5, 10, 15, and 20 cwts. In 1623 there were five bells, and one bell on the roof of the church. Ciiedgkaat:, All Saints — L Blank. Two bells 6th Edward VI., estimated to weigh respectively 2^ and If cwts. Chosley. No church. Claxton, S. Andrew — 3. 1, 2, 3. Anno Domini 1630. [By William Brend]. On Avaist of 3, S^ Robert Gavdey. Two bells 6th Edward VI. There is a monument in the church to Henry Gaudy, ob. 1620, erected by Eobert Gaudy, Knt., in 1637. Clexchwarton, S. Margaret — 5. 1. Joseph Mallows Fecit 1758. 2. Thomas Newman made me Mr. John Wardale C.W. 1740. 3. 5. John Draper made mo 1620. 4. Francis Forster Tho. AVardalo C.W. 1720. [By T. Newman]. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. CHURCH BELLS OF NOKFOLK. 117 Cley, Cockley, All Saints — 1. Diameter 29 in. John Eichard Dasliwood Esq"' and John Crowe Gent" Ch W"^ 1805. [ByDobson.] Three bells in 6th Edward VI. In 1747 there were two bells, but one being considered sufficient, a faculty was granted for the sale of the other. Cley, Cockley, S. Peter. No church. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Cley next the Sea, S. Margaret — 1. John Brend made m.e 1658. One beU in the 6th Edward VI. But on the Inventory is a memorandum, that three bells, weighing 28| cwt., had been delivered by the consent of the town to the Lorde of Eotelonde. A similar memorandum api^ears in the Holt Inventory. Clippesby, S. Peter — 1. 1838. Two bells of eight and twelve c-wts. 6th Edward VI. Cockthokpe, All Saints — 1. I . D 1613. Stop, a crown. Colby, S. Giles — 1. John Warner & Son Pounders London 1801. Two beUs 6th Edward VI. CoLKiKK, Blessed Virgin Mary — 5. 1. John Elliott Tohmas Seeker Chvrchwardens I S Eecit 1723. 2. John Elliott Thomas Seeker Chvrchwardens John Stejjhens Eecit 1723. 3. Jo^ Mallows Fecit 1753, 4. Joseph Mallows fecit 1755. 5. + : OCIDUS : CELI : FAC : BAEBAEA : CEIMINA : DELI : [See p. 80.] Three bells 6th Edward VI. CoLNEY, S. Andrew — 2. 1. + f^cc fit Scorum □ ^ampa Hautie Bononun. On crown, three large shields : Biasyer, ermine, 2'- 31 ; cross No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. 2. + : : VIEGO : BAEBAEA : PEG : NOBIS : DEUM : EXOEA : [Seep. 80.] Two bells 6th Edward VI. CoLTiSHALL, S. John Baptist — 6. 1,2. T Mears of London fecit 1826. AB 3. ^nna Banxini 1624 ^y 4. Charles Newman made mee 1701. 118 INSCRirXIONS ox THE 5. Anno Domini 1630. [By William Brend.] On shoulder, Brasyer's large shield : ermine, p. 31. 6. Thomas Newman did me cast He sing his praise vnto the last 1714 Three hells 6th Edward YI. At a vestry meeting held 29th June, 1826, it was agi-eed that Mr. Thomas Hurry should undertake the repair of the bells at an expense of £42. His hill, paid in March, 1827, amounted to £52. 7s. 6d. It is said the bells have not been improved by being recast. CoLTOx, S. Andre'w— 3. 1. Edward Tooke made me 1672. 2. Anno Domini 1565. E.B. I.B. On crown, two shields : Brasyer, diapered, p. 10, and the letter IB- Stop, the lion's face engraved at p. 33. CoLVESTOX, Blessed Virgin Mary. No church. CoxGnA.:M:, S. Andrew — 1 . Eev"^ Edw'' Nelson Eeetor Jacob Lubbock Ch "Warden Tho' Osborn founder 1 792. CoEPUSTY, S. Peter— 1. John Brend made me 1638. There were three bells 6th Edward YI., and also when Blomefield ^Tote, but two of them stood in the church ; on one of them was 3;n i'HttUis 3innis HcSOItct Campaiu Scliannis. In 1779 a faculty was granted authorizing the sale of two bells, supposed to weigh about nine cwt., which had been broken beyond the memory of man. CossEY, S. Edmund, King and Martyr — 5. 1, 2. John Brend made me 1656. 3. + ^^ctrus ^ti ISternc ©ucat ^ascua iJitc. On cro^vn, three shields : Brasyer. The initial cross and the word Petrus are filed off. 4. OMNIS SONIS LAUDET DOMINVM 1657. I.B. 5. TYBA AD lYDITIAM CAMPANA AD ECLESIAM I.B. 1656. 4 and 5 are by John Brend, jun., and are inscribed in very good ornamental characters. In 1768, the parishioners, upon representing that some short time since gi'cat pai-t of their steeple fell do^^■n, obtained a faculty to sell the four largest of theii- five beUs, and the lead off the roof, valued together at £220. Thirty-two vears later, it appears from the foUo^-ing paragraph from the Norwich Mercury of 31st May, 1800, a peal was purchased of Osborn of Do^vnliam. " A peal of five bells will be opened at Costessey on ^Yednesday next, being the " King's Birthday, by some of the Nor^^-ich ringers : they are mider-hand, by " ]\Ir. Osborn bell-hanger and founder from Do^^-nllam. 8ir W'" Jemingham " has sul)scribed largely, and the other inhabitants very liberally, so as to raise CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 119 " a sum sufficient for the pui-chase of the bells. Sir William has lately re- " built part of the steeple which was blown dowTi some years since, and added "a very handsome spii-e to it (at his own expense) which makes it a gi-eat " ornament to Costessey and the svuTounding -villages." CosTON, S. Michael — 1. C & Gr Mears founders London 18-18 diaries Atkins Church Warden. Ceanwich, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Diameter 24 in. Thomas Newman of Norwich made me 1744. Two bells 6th Edward VI. and tkree clappers. Cranwoeth, Blessed Yirgin Mary — 3. 1. : + : SANCTA : MAEGAEETA : OEA : PEO : NOBIS : [See p. 80.] 2. C & G Mears Founders London Eev" Philip Gurdon Eeetor Edward Stebbings Elisha Potter Churchwardens 1853. 3. John Draper made me 1628- The old second was inscribed "THOMAS DEAFER ME FECIT 1598," and had the crown engraved at p. 43, as I am informed by the Eev. J. J. Eaven, D.D. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Ceeake, North, Blessed Yirgin Mary — 6. Tenor c. 15 cwt. 1. Osborn & Arnold St. Neots fecit 1774 Churchwarden. 2. Thomas Newman of Norwich made me 1744. 3. Thomas Newman at Norwich made me 1744. 4. The Eeyi D^ Poynts Eeetor E'' Layton & Eog^ Powdich C W Arnold & Osbor fecit 1775. 5. M' Thomas Powdich & M' John Layton Churchwardens 1744 T N. 6. T. Mears of London fecit 1817. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Creake, South, Blessed Virgin Mary — 5. Tenor, 11 cwt. 1, 2. 1826. 3. Prosperity to the Village of South Creake. 4. William Dobson founder Downham Norfolk 1826. 5. Eev'' lien'' Goggs M.A. Vicar Francis Cakes & Thomas Lombe Graver Churchw''"' 1826. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Oressingham, Great, S. Michael — 3. Tenor, diameter 34 in. 1, 2. lohn Draper made me 1615. 3. John Draper . made . me . 1601. Three beUs 6th Edward VI., 10, 12, and 14 cwts. ; one clapper, 42 lbs. There were four bells when Blomeficld wrote; one is said to have gone to Hilborough. 120 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Ceessingham, Little, S. Andrew — 1. The tower and west end of the church are in ruins, and the bell hangs in an arch on the west gable of the church. The Rector says it is a small modem beU. Three bells 6th Edward YI. Ceimplesham, Blessed Yir^in Mary— 5. Tenor, diameter 32^ in. 7 cwt. 1, 2, 3. W" Dobson fecit 1798 4. W'" Dobson founder 1798 5. W. Dobson fecit 1798. EeV^ W"" Eoyle Curate Tho' Vincent Ch. Warden Three beUs 6th Edward YI. There are memoranda in the parish register that - " the smaU bell" was bought in 1599, and that Eich<' Ward gave a treble bell of 3i cwt. to the town in 1651. Ckingleford, S. Peter — 3. 1. Anno Domini 1605. 2. + Sum . Bosa . ^ulsata . fHuntii . aKatctina . Uocata. On crown, four shields : a che\Ton between thi-ee lavers. — Xo. 3, p. 50 : stop, No. 8, p. 52. 3. Filii dei vivi miserere nobis Anno Domini 156X On waist, I.B. Blomefield says this is the soul bell,* and reads the above inscription, " Jesu Crista fill dei miserere nobis." It -will be observed that he omits Anno Domini, and reads the date, which I suppose to be intended for 1570, Jesu Criste. Cromkr, SS. Peter and Paul— 1. + fHissus Tzxa ^iz □ ©abricl ifert £Eta iHarfe. On crown thi-ee shields : Brasyer, p. 10. — See illustration opposite Five bells 6th Edward \r[. In 1767, the church being in great decay, so that at a moderate estimate it could not be re-edified for as Little as £1000, the parisliioners obtained a faculty for the sale of four of their five bells, and the lead off the main roof. I learn, from a memorandum given me by the late IMr. Simeon Simons, that there were estimated to be twenty-six tons of old lead, which at £12 per ton amounted to £312, and fifty-two cwt. of beU metal valued at £197. 12s. It appears, however, that there were thirty tons of lead, and that it sold for £15 per ton. Crostwick, S. Peter ad Vincula — 1 . Anno Domini 1608. [By William Breud.] Thi-ee small bells 6th Edward YI. In 1753 the parishioners had a faculty to sell two beUs, weighing about five cwt., one being cracked and the other not having a clapper. Crostwight, All Saints — 1. + ASLAK : JOHES : JOHEM : ME : NOIAVIT. [See pp. 17, 83.] Three beUs 6th Edward YI. * In a will dated 1500 is this passage, "And wh:in my bodj- and my sowle departs than to have the sowle bell to rj-ng for me in tokenyng caUyng to god for help." — Norfolk Archceology, vol. i., p. 121. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 121 In 1802 a faculty was granted to sell two bells, weighing about fourteen cwt., and worth £42, the chmxh being very dilapidated, and the tower unable to bear the bells. It appears from the parish accoimt book that the bells and old materials realised £83. 16s. 6d. Crowih'hoepe, S. James — 1. + Tlio + + Gardiner + Norwich + fecit + 1748 + S=T=C.W. Croxton near Thetford, All Saints — 1. John Draper made me 162 - □ [Mark engraved at p. 46.] Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1785 the parishioners had a faculty to take down the north aisle, and sell two of theii- three bells. Blomefield has preserved the inscription upon one of them — " O MARTYR THOMA PRO ME DEt'M EXORA." Croxton, S. John Baptist — 1. A small bell without an inscription. It now hangs over the north porch, ha'^^ing been twice blown off the gable of the church. Two beUs 6th Edward VI., | cwt. and IJ cwt. CusTHORPE, S. Thomas. No chiu-ch. Dalling, Field, S, Andrew — 5. 1, 2, Tho = Gardiner Norwich Fecit 1750. 3, 4, 5. Thomas Gardiner Norwich Fecit 1750. Dalling, Wood, S. Andrew — 5. 1. Charles Newman made mee 1697 R P. 2. C & G Mears Founders London. Wood Dalling 1856. Frederick Hildyard Vicar W" Holloway "Webb Curate. J E, Cursons G Clark Churchwardens. 3. Thomas Newman made mee 1707 J Gay E Pratt C.W. 4. lohn Draper made me 1620. 5. Charles Newman made mee 1701. In 1697 two beUs were spHt, and on the parishioners representing to the Bishop that one of them was too great for their steeple, they had leave to re-cast it of a less weight, and apply the overplus metal toward defrapng their charges. In 1709 the weight of the beUs is given as 4 cwts. 3 qrs., 5 cwts., 5 cwts. 1 qr., 7 cwts., 9 cwts. Dextox, Blessed Virgin Mary — 3. AB 1. Snn0 Bomfni 1616 ^y 2. + : : MATHEE : ME : ADIUVA : MEN'IE : ABIMIS : SVLLEVA : _ 3. + :_EDMVNDE : EEX : SACTISSIME : FAC : TECV : SEPEE : VIVEEE : The letters, &c., on 2 and 3 are engraved at p. 80. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 6, 8, and 10 cwts. Tlie Ven. xb-chdcacon Bouverie informed me there is a tradition in the parish that these beUs are the large three to a peal of five or sLx, the others ha\ing been sold when the tower fell, about 160 or 170 years ago. K 122 INSCRIPTIONS ON THP: Attached to a Eegister Bill delivered at the Bishop's Visitation in 1706, is the following memorandum. "Denton June 1706. " Item that we have 3 pretty fair sortly Bells W^^ rest a sleep within y" chnrch " ha^-ing no steeple to hang them in and so to awaken them for our sf)lemn " use and necessary occasions and but veiy little or no care is there taken to "make it useful nor without a more strict and peremptory injunction will it "he made useful this 20 years at y^ pace they have hitherto gone." Dexyek, Blessed Virgin Mary — 5. Tenor, diameter 36 in. 1. C. G. 1680. 2. Ciiristopher Graye made me 1680. 3. William Dobson Founder Downham Norfolk 1825. 4. John . Stovghton . Peter . Jex . Churchwardens I . S . fecit . 1721. [By John Stephens. Stop, a fleur-de-lis.] 5. Tho^ Norburn and "William Batterham Churchwardens 1825. Three hells 6th Edward XI. Deoph-OI, S. Andrew — 5. 1. Tho Osborn fecit 1781. Tho' Eowing and John Lane Church- wardens. 2. T Newman fecit Jonathan Dey and Eobert Meek CW. 1740. 3. 4. Tho - Newman - made - mee - 1713. 5. + D^XSIS . CISTO . MELIS . VOCOE . CAMPANA . EAFAELIS. [Seep. 51.] Dereham, East, S. Nicholas — 8, a clock bell, and a sanctus bell. 1. Thomas Mears of London fecit 1804. 2. W" Mears of London fecit 1785. 3. Tho^ Lester and T Pack of London fecit 1753. 4. Thomas Mears of London Founder 1834. John Georfje XN • 1 T i Churchwardens. David ijong ) Francis Webster Steeple Warden. 5. Eichard Goddard and William Knapp Churchwardens, Thos Mears of London fecit 1804. 6, 7. Thomas Lester and Tho^ Pack of London Fecit 1753. 7 has been re-cast, and is inscribed " G. ilears & Co. Foimders London Laus Deo 1864." 8. Thomas Lester and Tho^ Pack of London made us all 1753. [Weight 24 ewt. Key of E.] Clock bell. Thomas Mears Founder London The gift of C. H. Wollaston Yicar 1839. Sanctus on roof of lantern tower, no inscription. On crown, three shields, each charged with the letter R backwards. It appears fi-om the Inventory of 6th Edward YI. that there was only one steeple bell, weighing by estimation forty c^\■ts. There was also a " saimce belle " of fifty-six pounds. There were certainly at least five bells here in 1536, as John Pepre, by his will thus dated, gave 6s. 8d. to the making of the fifth bell. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 123 In the Visitation Inventory of 1716, 1 find, " Item five bells lately run and a sixth "now at y" Bellfounders to be run, the weight we know not." I have a memorandum from the parish papers, that in 1717 there was a new bell from Fakenham I am indebted to G. A. Carthew, Esq., F.S.A., for copies of the following docimients. " Proposals for Casting and Hanging the Bells belonging to the parish of East Dereham in the County of Norfolk by Thomas Lester of "WTiite Chajjple Successor of the late Ingenious M"^ Phelps of ^Vhite Chappie London. " To take down the old six Bells and Cast them into a Good musical and tuneable Peal of eight Bells by adding such a Quantity of new Mettal as the Parish shall think fit of, or otherwise to make a complete Peal of new Mettal Intirely at Six pound ^' Hundi-ed and to allow in Exchange For the old Bells Four pounds Sixteen shillings t?'' Hundred weight. " If the Tenor is to weigh Twenty Hundred and the rest in Proportion the whole will weigh about Eighty Six Hundred, which is Five himch-ed and sixteen Poimds. " If she is to weigh Twenty Five Hundred, then the whole will weigh about five Tons six Hundred, which is Six Hundi-ed and thu-ty six pounds. " To make a new Frame of the best Oak timber the Scantling fit to CaiTy either of the aforesaid Peals with new Stocks, Wheels, Ironwork with Nutts and Screws, Clappers, Brasses, Holers ; and Hang them up with new Ropes &c Fit for Einging them ; One Hundred and ten Pounds. " The whole to be done in a Workmanlike manner For the Sums above mention'd and supposing the old Mettal to weigh Fifty Hundi-ed at Foitr pounds sixteen shillings ^ Hundred the Ballance will be either three Himdred and Seventy six pounds, or Four hundred and ninety six pounds, as they shall think Fit. " And if he does not Contract for the abovesaid work the Parish to be at the Expence of the coming down, otherwise to be at his own Expence and to Carry them from his House to any Wharfe or Inn, in London. £. s. « The BeUs Tenor 22 325 Clappers 200 weight at 9d . . . . 8 8 Gudgeons . . . . . . . . . . 3 10 Brasses . . . . . . . . . . 2 ■WTieels 16 Stocks, Eoles and Cheeks . . . . 8 ' 400 Irons . . For Timber & work The Inventory of 1760 gives the weight of the new bells — treble, 7 cwt. ; 2nd, 7 cwt.; 3rd, 7 cwt. 3 qrs. 5 pounds; 4th, 9 cvrt. 2 qrs. 16 pounds; oth, 11 cA\i;. 2 qrs. 13 poimds ; 6th, 14 cwt. 1 qr. 13 pounds; 7th, 17 cwt. qr. 1 pound; tenor, 23 cwt. 2 qrs. 17 poimds ; making altogether 4 tons 18 cwt. and 9 pounds. It will be seen from the following letter, that shortly after it was contemplated increasing the peal to ten. " London October l^t 1768. " Sir, — Yours of the 26"» last Month came duly to hand and should have answer'd it sooner but was fi-om home ; we obsei-ve you are desirous of making vour r2 362 18 12 12 15 390 10" 124 IXSCRIPTIOXS ox THE Peal of eight Bells Ten by adding a Tcnnor and Trible which may be done by recasting the second and sixth to make them half a note deeper than they now are and by no other way as they mil not bear cutting down so much without spoiling. The Tenner will rcquii-c to weigh 30 Hundred weight ) ^^i + q- a n o^n k m j-xi. XI rn -11 36i at bix pounds pr C. - 219=0 6i ditto the Irible ) ^ ■' -^ Our Price for recasting is now 28 Shillings p' Hund'i and stand to the waste of metal ourselves, if any new metal added at Six Pounds per Hundred, if any old to spare we allow £4=1 Per Hundred which is the Prices we have every where and if favour' d wdth your orders you maj^ depend upon having them compleated in a good and worlnnanlike manner. " Sir Youi- most Obed* hum' Serv'^ to Command, Lester & Pack. - " N.B. — If you shoud come to a resolution to have them made Ten will wait on you at Dereham by favouring us with a Line. " To James Smyth Esq"". "At East Dereham Korffolk." Deeeha:^!, West, S. Andrew — 5. Tenor, diameter 33 in.; 7 cwt. 1,3, 4. No inscription. 2. T Osborn Fecit Percute Dnlee Cano. 5. EoV Skelton C" Warden. T. OsLorn Fecit 1785. Three bells 6th Edward. VI., weights, 12, 14, and 16 c^rt. DERSiKGHAir, S. Nicholas — 6. 1. ++ 1773. 2. J.M. fecit 1750. N.H. S.S. Ch. W. 3. Arnold and Osborn S* Neots fecit 1773. 4. Jolin Draper made me 1636. 5. -\- Nic Hendry Sam Scarf e Churchwardens Joseph Mallows fecit 1750 6. Thomas Newman made mee 1705. I. Pell and T. Rogers C. Wardens. DiCKLEBURon, All Saints — 5. Tenor, F sharp. 1. John Taylor and Son founders Loughboro' 1856. Diameter 30 inches; weight 6 cwt. qr. 21 lbs. 2. + Sduitus ©cjitifi ^sccnlJit 9itJ Cuhnma €zii. 8. -f ©ulci's Si'sta fHcIiQ (Campana Focor frlicfjach's. 4. + .Sum Hosa: ^ulsata iiHuntit fHart'a Uocata. 5. For the honour of God John Taylor &c. as on 1. Diameter 41| inches ; weight 11 cwt. 3 qrs. 9 lbs. Four bells 6th Edward VI. DiDLiNGTOJf, S. Michael — 1. Diameter 30 inches. John Draper made me 1622 [Draper's mark, see p. 46.] Three beHs 6th Edward VI. A faculty was granted by Bishop Gooch in October, 1747, authorizing the sale of two cracked bells, the money arising from such sale to be applied to the re- pairs of the church, which was " by virtue of time, and not through the neglect of the parishioners, greatly decayed in the roof, leads, and principal timbers thereof." The inscription upon one of the bells so sold was SiiktS Jsisto ftlclis (Tampana Fnrav ^idptlis^—J^hmrficfd, vol. vi., p. 90. 8vo. ed. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 125 DiLHAM, S. Nicholas — 1. John Brend made me 1653. The tower is round and serves as a chimney, the flue of the stove not heing continued further than the first floor. I was therefore glad that the church- warden could tell mc the inscription on the bell. Two hells in 6th Edward VI. The Inventory adds, " Ther ware in the Stepull there iij bells wherof one of them ar sowold unto Clement Cubytt p'yshner ther for x>' wherof ther remaynji;h in the Chui'ch now " the said two bells. In 1700, the Bishop granted a license to the paiishioners to sell the greatest of their four bells, and to apply the money towards repairing their chm-ch, which was much dilapidated, the porch having fallen down, and the lead and timber of the roofs and the buttresses being out of repau-. In 1775 a faculty was giuntcd to take down the church, which was much larger than was necessary, that is to say about 60 feet long by 50 feet \sdde, and rebuild it about 60 feet long by 26 feet wide. The expense amounted to about £375, to assist in defraying which leave was granted to sell 17 tons of lead, worth £200, and the largest and smallest of three bells, worth about £50. Diss, S. NichoLas — 8. Tenor D, 24 cwt. Diameter 55J in. 1. Prosperity to the Town of Diss. 2. Ee-cast in the Year MDCCCXXXII hy subscription. 3. Peace and good neighbourhood. 4. Our voices shall with joyful sound Mate hills and valleys echo round. 5. Wilham Dobson founder Downham Norfolk 1832. 6. Thomas Lombe Taylor, Samuel Farrow, Samuel Brook, and Charles Alger, Charles Barkway Secretary of the Com- mittee. 7. William Pincham and James Lacock Churchwardens 1832. 8. Eev. William Manning M.A. Eector of Diss 1832. Two beUs 6th Edward VI., 6 cwts. and 2 cwts. The saint's bell, which hung over the east gable of the nave, was inscribed, Saiictc ffiafartcl ora pro nobis. "They call this," says Blomefield, "the Katj Bell, being a corruption for the Gabriel Bell." — Blomefield, vol. i., p. 13. The rector, the Eev. C. E. Manning, informs me that it was removed about thirty years ago to a workhouse in the parish, which was subsequently made into almshouses. The bell was then sold, and he has been imable to trace it fiu'ther. The following exti-act from the Norwich Mercury. 19 January, 1833, gives some information concerning the old peal. " This new and excellent peal of eight beUs has given the greatest satisfaction to the best judges from all parts of the county, who assembled to hear them opened, some of whom came from remote distances. They are allowed to do great credit to ]Mi-. Dobson the founder, as the machinery does to ]\Ir. Burgess the engineer. The breaking of one of the old bells, when tolling for morning service one Simday morning m AprU last, has proved an advantageous circimistance to the public at large. The old bells were a made-up peal of eight of difi'erent dates, from 1683 to 1741. The weight of the old tenor was 15 cwt. qr. 6 lbs. There were two very old bells, viz., the 3rd and 2nd, but there were no dates on them; from the inscriptions they had been cast prior to the Eeformation, probably more than 126 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE a century, perhaps two centuries before that time, as will best appear by the inscriptions on them. That on the smaller of the two was as follows, — ©mnia ILcta * fac fflartjartm "Nobis, and which is thus paraphrased on his successor, — Our voices shall with joyful sound Make hill and valley to rebound.* The other new bells are inscribed with the present date, the names of the Eector, Churchwardens, Conunittee, Secretary, Founder, &c. &c. The new tenor weighs 23 cwts. 2 qrs. 26 lbs." DiTcniNGHAM, Blessed Virgin Mary — 6. 1,2. J. J. Beclingfield Esq'*' WilHam Stamford Church Wardens 1820 T. Mears of London fecit. 3. T. L. made me 1739. [Thomas Lester.] 4. ^tEtni's ^nni's Ecscnet Catnpana IIol}annt3 [and the shield No. 3, p. 50.] 5. Sum 3^osa Pulsata JHuntii iiiatcrina Uocata [and the shield No. 3, p. 50; capitals crowned, see No. 2, p. 50] 6. Omnis Sonvs Lavdet Dominvm 1620. On crown T.A. P.B. E.G. and three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -nr Four bells 6th Edward VI. Until lately there was a clock here, the bell belonging to which was inscribed "Anno Domini 1593." It came many years ago from Ditchingham Hall. The squire was a martjT to podagra, and the loud ticking of the clock annoying him, in a tit of gout and generosity he gave it to the church. Docking, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1 , John Draper made me 1622. [Draper's mark, p. 46.] There was only one beU here in 6th Edward "VT., but it appears from the jiarish register that the frames for thi-ee bells remained in the early part of the seventeenth centiuy. DouGHTO^^ No clmrch. DowNH^VM Market, S. Edmund K.M. — 8. Tenor, diameter 40 in. c. 12 cwt. 1. T. Osborn 1787. 2. Cum vogo venite J. Eayre fecit 1771. 3. Henry Edgar and Eichard Carter Churchwardens — This bell raised by subscription — 176G. 4. Osborn & Arnold St. Neots Hunts fecit The gift of the Eev"* D'' Poynt E'' Layton & Eog"' Powditch Church Wardens 1774. 5. Joseph Eayr, St. Neots Eeeit 1769. 6. The gift [filed away] Joseph Eayre fecit 1767. 7. Pack & Chapman of London fecit 1771. 8. Arnold and Osborn St. Neots fecit 1773. * The paraphrase is as free as the copy of the inscription is inaccui'ate. Of coiu'se it was, " Fac Margareta Nobis Hec Mimcra Leta." CHURCH 15ELLS OF NORFOLK. 127 DraytojST, S. Margaret— 3. 1. Edw. Tooke made me 1676 [and arms of Norwicli City.] 2. Elias Breud made me 1660. I.C. H.T. 3. + IBuIcis Ci0t0 fHelia □ Campana Ilocor IKicJ^is. On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31 ; stop, p. 33. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. The tower fell on the night of the 22nd December, 1850, but the bells were not injiu-ed. Dunham, |Gre AT, St. Andrew — 2. 1. Thomas Newman made mee 1710. 2. J.I). 1638. [Jolm Draper.] Thi'ee bells Gth Edward VI. A faculty to sell a spUt beU is dated 1761. DtJNHAJM, Great, S. Mary. No church. One bell 6th Edward VI. Dunham, Little, S. Margaret — 1. James Edbvri 1606. Three bells here 6th Edward VI. In 1767, the steeple being very ancient and not able to support three bells, a faculty was granted for the sale of the treble and tenor. DuNSTON, S. Eemigius — 3. 1, 2, 3. Thomas Mears Founder London 1840. On 1, Jane Dormer; on 2, Charles Dormer; on 3, Eobert Kellett Long. These bells were the gift of Robert K. Long, Esq., of Dunston Hall. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 1|, 2, and 2^ cwts. DuNTON, S. Peter — 1. 1794. One beU 6th Edward VI. Earlham, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Henry Pleasant made me. 1 705. Two bells 6th Edward VI. In 17o3 there were "two bells and one split one which have been so these forty years." In the chuieh wardens' account from March 26, 1807, to Michaelmas, 1809, I find, "Received by two Bells £35. 3s. Od." Earsham, All Saints — 3. 1. + f^ac 3Iu Cmiclabe \J ffiakiel Wuc ^antje Sua&e. On cro^\^l, three shields : Brasyer, ermine, p. 31. 2. Anno Domini 1723. W.B. [Qy. 1623.] 3. John Jaye W.B. Anno Domini 1614 [by William Brend.] Three bells 6th Edward VI. 128 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Easton, S. Peter — 1. Pack & Chapman of London The tower fell down about September, 1771, beating down a great part of the cliurch, and breaking the three beUs. In 1772 a faculty was granted for their sale, the money to be applied towards the purchase of a new bell and the erection of a cupola. The present bell-cot was built in 1848 ; the inscription on the bell was read with a telescope. Eaton, S. Andrew — 2. 1. + AVE □ GRACIA □ PLNA. stops, the lion's face engraved at p. 26, and the three-legged pot en- graved at p. 10. 2. -h En JHijItts ^nnis n l^csonet Campa Sa^Ts. On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31 ; cross, p. 26. The tenor bell, inscribed f^ac in ffl^oitclabc ©abricl nunc pangc suafac, was sold without a faculty between 1784 and 1820, and the treble was unstocked many years ago for a similar purpose. The trouble and expense of a faculty, how- ever, saved the bell, and in 1859 it stood in the east window of the belfry. It has, I am informed, been re-hung. EccLES, Blessed Virgin Mary — 3. Tenor, diameter 39 inclies. 1. + : SOE : BENEDICTE : OEA : PEO : NOBIS : : 2. + : OEA : PEO : NOBIS : BE ATE : ANTONI : : See pp. 15, 80. 3. □ Thomas Draper . made me . 1587. Draper's mark is engraved at p. 43. EccLES NEXT THE Sea, Blessed Virgin Mary. The ruined church stands on the beach. Edgefield, SS. Peter and Paul — 1. Anno Domini 1632. On waist, Brasyer, ermine, p. 31. Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1734 there were fom- bells, and the parishioners were allowed to sell a cracked bell, which had been taken down, time exceeding the memory of man. In 1807 permission was granted to sell two beUs weigliing about 23 cwt., and worth £107. 6s. 8d., and lead worth £314. 15s. 5d. Edingthokpe, All Saints — 3. 1. ... DOMINI. 1612. [By William Brend.] The crown of this bell was broken out, and the bell had fallen. 2. + '^tc Sit Stor CTampana TIaxitic Bonor. On cro^^^l, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31. 3. ^nno Womini 1626. A T> On crown, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and ^y Three bcUs 6th Edward VI. Egmeee, S. Edmund. No church. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 129 Ellingham, Great, S. James — 5. 1. Francis Colman Esq' Churcli Warden 1737. [By Newman.] 2. Cam . all . m • tljat fcarc tlje . \oxti 1615. 3. (Com . tnitl) . care to Ijcarc . l)is toorti 1615. 4. (Com . iuitlj . jeak anti . rjooti . ficljaui'our 1615. 5. Com . to knoiDE tljo . rtoti . anti sauiour 1615. On crowns of 2, 3, 4, 5, three shields : Nor^\'ieh city, Brasyer, and Vy Three bells 6th Edward VI., and hut one clapper. The bell frame is dated 1615. The tenor bell being split, it was in 1737 cast into a treble, whereby the parish saved £13. In the following year a faculty was obtained confirming what had been done. Ellingham, Little, S. Peter — 1. + John . Goldsmith fecit . 1712 . M'' Eob' Cooke . Fr^ Invper . ■ C" W\ Two bells 6th Edward VI. ELLiifGHAM near Bungay, Blessed Virgin Mary — 5.' 1. [Cracked: inscription covered with an iron band.] On crown, Brasyer, ermine, p. 31. 2. Anno Domini 1596. 3. Anno Domini 1629. 4. Anno Domini 1629 M'' William Uamond. 5. Tvba ad Ivdicivm Campana ad Ecclesiam 1647 M"' John Hamonde. 2, 3, 4, by William Brend ; 5, by John Brend, jun. Elmham, North, Blessed Virgin Mary — 8. Tenor E, c. 20 cwt. 1. Joseph Mallows 1757. 2. Joseph Mallows of East Dereham Fecit 1757. 3. Joseph Mallows Fecit 1757. 4. Tho"* Gregory Eector John Ladley Church Warden J M Fecit 1757. 5. T Mears of London Fecit 1819. 6. We ries like larks sing as we fly With notes that seem to rach the sky 1757. 7. The hills the vales the towns all round Shall echo with a pleasant sound 1757. 8. Eichard Milles Esq' William Eastoe Church Wardens 1815 Thomas Mears of London Fecit. Four beUs 6th Edward VI. " The beU with the clokk " was the one assigned to the parish use. Elsing, Assumption of the Blessed A^'irgin Mary — 5. 1. Thomas Newman made mee 1705. 2. rurseti 6e all djurdj robbers 1622. 3. Elias Brend made me 1660. 4. praise pti on tf)c lout) cimballs 1622 5. ^nno Somini 1622. AB Da c■ro^^^ls of 2, 4. o, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and ^y 130 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Emxeth, S. Edmund— 5. Tenor, 12 cwt. 1. William Dobsou fecit Downliam Norfolk 1807. 2. Long^ live King George the third 1807. 3. The Lord to praise my voice I'll raise 1807. 4. William Dobson fecit Downham Norfolk 1807. 5. Jolm Bird & John Bradley Gent" Churchwardens W™ Dobson fecit 1807. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Erpingham, Blessed Virgin. Mary — 4. 1, 2, 3. Anno Domini 1616 WB. [William Brend.] 4. + i^os STIjamc i^eritis □ fHcreamur @autii'a 5Lud9. On crown, three small shields : Brasj-er, p. 31 ; cross. No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. Three bells 6th Edward YI. Fakenham, SS. Peter and Paul — 8. Tenor E, c. 20 cwt. 1, 2. Thomas Lester of London made me 1746. 3. John Stepliens Bell founder fo Norwich made me 1718. 4. Richard Stiberde Doner 1639. 5. John Brend made me 1647. 6. John Darbie made me 1660. Thomas Colman Martaine Browne C.W. 7. Edw-* Eust W™ Stokes Churchwardens T. Osborn fecit 1802. 8. Thomas Norris made me 1678. Robert Bateman, chaplain, by will dated 1492, gave 20s. to the making three bells, provided they were made -wdthin a year. The inventory of 6th Edward VI. mentions four bells, weighing respectively, 11, 14, 17, and 22 cwts., "the Mare bell by estiacSn wepng xl" and vj smaU bells by estiacon xxiiij''." In 1705 there were five bells, and in 1716 six bells and a clock. Eelbkigg, S. Margaret — L T Newman made mee 1707. Three bells 6th Edward VI., and but two clappers. In 1778 the parishioners had leave to sell three of their five bells, supposed to weigh about 16 cwt. and to be worth about £-54 ; also £100 worth of old lead. The money was to be applied towards the new leading and repairing the roof of the church, which would amount to £217. It appears /owr bells were sold. Eelmingham, S. Andi-ew — 6. Tenor, 11 cwt. 1. Thomas Hall, John Hayu. 2. John Rush, James Sewell. 3. The EeV^ Geo" Coleby, John Hylton. 4. W" Moore, Tho' Sewell. 5. John Cooke, Thomas Mayes. 6. W™ Postle, Jno : Seaman Churchwardens. Each bell is also inscribed T. Mears of London fecit 1819. Four bells 6th Edward VI. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 131 FELTnoEPE, S. Margaret — 1. Anno Domini 1634. E. B. Two beUs 6th Edward VI. In 1733 leave was granted to sell a si^Ut bell weighing nearly two cwt., and a piece of a bell weighing almost 1^ cwt., the biggest bell then in use being sufficient to g-ive notice of Ser\'ice. Feltwell, S. Mary — 3. Tenor, diameter 38 inclies. 1. Thomas Newman made me 1711. 2. Thomas Thickpenny and Peter Drak C. W. 1711. 3. John Draper made me 1621. □ [Draper's mark, p. 46.] Three bells 6th Edward YI. John, Bishop of Ely, granted in 1494 forty days' indulgence to all who should contribute to the re-casting of the bells, and the re-building of the chiu-ch and bell-tower of Feltwell S. Mary, which had been destroyed by fire. Feltwell, S. Nicliolas — 5. Tenor, diameter 35 inches. 1. Michael Darbie made me 1661. 2. John Draper made me 1621. 3. + Firgi'nis Ctjrcgie □ Focor ffi^ampa jJHaric. 4. + lEtfjcIlirrtia Bona □ EM ©antur piuri'ma ©ona. 5. 3a\)n lirapEt tnatic mc 161^. On crowns of 3 and 4, thi'ce shields: Brasyer, p. 31 ; crosses, No. 2, p. 32; stops, p. 33. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Fersfield, 8. Andrew — 1. Thomas Osborn fecit 1801 -t--:-;- Tho^ Garrood Tho^ Woods Churchwardens. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Blomeneld says " the steeple is square and hath but two bells, though it had three " till the second was split by a tempest about eighty years since, together with "the steeple, which is now (1736) suppoi-ted by iron cramps. Part of its "metal was sold in 1708, towards repairing the chirrch." Field Dalling. See Dalling, Field. FiLBY, All Saints — 5. 1. John Stephens fecit . 1722 Robert Bnxton . chvrchwarden [Stop, a fleur-de-lis.] 2. Edw: Tooke made me 1676. 3. John Brend made me 1658. AB 4. Anno Domini 1607. xy 5. Edw: Tooke made me 1675. [And the arms of Norwich city.] Three beUs 6th Edward VI. FiNCHAM, S. Martin — 6. Tenor, 7 cwt. ; diameter 35 inches. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. C. & Gr. Mears Founders London 1844, 6 has in addition, EeV*. A. Loftus Eector, John Barsham, Henry Young, George Aylmer Church AVardens, William Hebgin, Eobert Aylmer, James Barsham, Thomas Kemp. 132 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Three bells 6th Edward VI. ; estimated weight, 9, 11, and 18 cwts. A\Tien Blomefield wrote there were foui- bells : the least was inscribed, Sancta Maria ora pro nobis, and the tenor, Viventis Misere Pater Omniptens Jliserere. He adds, " this bell was used on the death of any person, and was called the " Soul Feal or Passinrjlcll." FrN'cnAir, S. Michael. No church. There were three bells when the chm-ch was pulled down, about 1744. FiSHLEY, Blessed Yirgin Mary — 1. W B 1624. Two bells 6th Edward VT., 11 cwt. and 2 cwt. Flitce:a:!j:, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. John Draper made ne 1619. [^Ex inforni. liev. AVilliam Leech.] Flockthoep. No church. Floedox, S. Michael — 1. 1775. [In a cot on west gable of nave.] " Item two bells in the walle by estjinacon of cclx in weight whereof one clx and the othe' C." — Inventory 6th Edward VI. In July, 1775, the paiishioners had a faculty to sell two of their three bells, the steeple, notwithstanding it had been anchored up about twenty years before at a great expense, having suddenly fallen in the month of Apiil then last past. FoEDHAM, Blessed Yirgin Mary — 1 . + AVE GEA PLENA. [See page 80.] FosTOX VEL FoDDEESTOX, S. Peter. No church. FoEXCETT, S. Mary — 3. 1. Thomas Newman made me 1707. 2. Anno Domini 1603. [By "William Brend.] 3. + 3:n iBultt's 2lnuis Ecsonct Campana 3oi3is. On crown, thi-ee small shields : Brasyer, p. 31. The Inventory of 1552 mentions three bells, of 6, 5, and 4 cwi:s. respectively; two hand bells ; also " one Chauncell Belle and one Sacre bell." FoEXCETT, St. Peter — 5. Tenor F sharp. Diameter 42 inches. 1, 2, 3. Anno Domini 1602 WB. 4. Thomas Newman made me 1737. William Swan Church- warden. 5. Cum Toco venite Z. Brooke D.D."' T Osborn me fecit 17B3. John Parle e Ch. Warden. Four beUs 6th Edward \1. The Rev. W. G. Wilson has kindly supplied the foUoMung entries from the parish account book : — £. «. a. 1736-7. Paid for casting the fourth beU .. . . 10 15 For carrying the bell to Norwich and biinging of it home 15 For all expences to the bell . . . . . . ..0150 * Fellow and Tutor of St. John's CoUege, Cambridge; Chaplain in Ordinary to George II. and George III., Lady Margaret Professor of Divinity, and Hector of the Fomcctts. Died 7th August, 17S8. CHURCH BETJ.S OF NORFOLK. l-jjj FouLDON, All Saints — 1. Diameter 21i inches. W. Dobson Founder 1807. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Blomefield says, " in this tower hang five small tuneable bells, and the treble was " the gift of Mr. Raymond " (ob. 1728), " and has his arms cast on it." In 1791 the repairs necessary to be done to the chui-ch amounted to £80. There were five bells never rung, the tower "having been fallen doviTi many years." A faculty was granted for the sale of fom- bells, weighing about 20 cwt., and worth about £56. FonxsHAM, Holy Innocents — 1, and a clock bell. + FES : GILDE : SCE : TRITATIS : FECEET : ME : FIEEI. [See plate at p. 83.] [Clock beU] Towler Foulsbam. Mr. Towler is an ironfoimder still living at Foulsbam. In 1770, the parishioners set forth in a petition to the Bishop that a dreadful fii-c had burned the church, melted the lead and four of the bells, and split the fifth bell.* They had a faculty to sell the bell and the metal, and purchase a new one. It appears from Quarles's Historij and Antiquities of Foulsham, that in 1771 ]VIr. Sison, of Little Walsingham, brazier, was paid £44. 6s. 8d. for a bell weighing 9^ cwt. FoxLEY, 8. Thomas Apostle — 6. 1, 3. Tho. Gardiner Norwich Fecit 1751. 2, Tlio. Gardiner Norwich Fecit 1753. 4. Thomas Gardiner Norwich Fecit 1755. 5. W. Copland T. Copland C.W. W. Hewett oner 1751. 6. W. Copland J. Copland C.W. W. Hewett N. Scales. 0. S. 1753. In 1751 the churchwarden appeared voluntarily and alleged that he had melted down one of the three bells, and with additional metal made three. A faculty to confii-m what he had done was granted. Framingham Earl, S. Andrew — 1. + FONS . ENVANGELII . FAC . NOS . CHEEVBYN . SOCIAEI. [See p. 2G.] Two bells 6th Edward VI. and when Blomefield wi-ote. Framingham Pigot, S. Andrew — 3. 1 and 2. G. Mears founder London 1859. [Old bell] P. Huberd C. W. 1737. There was no bell when the Inventory of 6th of Edward VI. was made, but it contains a memorandum " that ij Bells were stoUin abowght iij yeres past as " ys [declared] by othes of onest men." * The bells " chimed every four hours the sweetness of whose peal is said by those " who then heard their notes for the last time to have been singularly increased by "the heat communicated to them by the destroj-ing flames."— Quarles's Foulsham, p. 30. 134 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE FRANsHA^r, Great, All Saints — I. Joliu Buck Rector John Drosier Tlio" Uen' Case Cliurchwardens Tho^ Osborn Fecit 1801. Two Lells 6th Edward VI. In 1801 the south aisle was taken down: the lead was worth £80. There were three cracked bells weighing about 18 cwt. : a faculty was granted au- thorizing the sale of the lead and 9 cwt. of bell metal ; the remainder to be run into one bell. Fransham, Little, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. William Dobson Downham Norfolk Fecit 1815. Thi-ee bells 6th Edward ^T. In 1742 there were three bells hanging in a thatched shed in the churchyard, so that they were of no real use. A faculty was granted for the sale of two, and the oldest bell was to be hung over the porch. Freethorpe, All Saints — 1. rizcd tho sale of two more bells. The present 2, 3, 4 were given to the chx rch by the Eight Hon. the Lady I'avnin''. CHUKCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 149 Horning, S. Michael — 1. Slnno JDominf 1618. [Cracked] AB On crown, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and ,-^ Thi-ee bells 6th Edward VI. In 1749 a faculty was granted for the sale of two of the four bells, to assist in the repair of the chiu-ch. The Inventory of 1760 has, " but one bell left, the rest being sold to repair the church." A story is told in the parish that there were five bells at the church ; but some thieves one night broke in and stole them all. One of the bells fell into the river, and the thieves considerately wrote to the Churchwarden, informing him of the exact spot. In weighing the bell up it was, however, cracked. HoRNiNGToPT, S. Edmund — 1. lohn Brand made me 1635. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Horsey, All Saints— 1. Note D. 1597. [By John Brend, senior.] The chm-ch wanting reparation in 1788, a faculty was granted for the sale of two bells, one whereof was cracked, weighing about 1 1 cwt. and worth about £25. HoRSFORD, All Saints — 1. Anno Domini 1565 I. B. About half a dozen impressions of coins on this bell. Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1757 there were three bells, two of which were hung and one split; a faculty was granted for the sale of the latter, weighing about 6 cwt. Another bell appears to have been sold between 1834 and 1845. Horsham S. Faith's, S. Andrew— 4. 1. Anno Domini 1610. W. B. 2. Anno Domini 1612. W. 3. Anni Domini 1612. W. I. B. [Cracked from being clogged.] 4. Anno Domini 1612. W. [Ditto.] All by the Brends. Three bells 6th Edward VI. HoRSTEAD, All Saints— 3. 1. lohn Brend made me 1656. 2. Thomas Newman made mee 1705. 3. John Watts and William Livick C. Wardens 1705. Three bells 6th Edward VI. There was a fourth bell here, which was stolen whilst a vault was being made at the church between 1834 and 1845. Houghton in the Dale, S. Giles — 3. 1. En iUlulti's ^nni's IclEsanct Campana Sofianm's. 2. No inscription. 3. Johanes Draper me fecit 1611, [and Draper's mark, a crown pierced with two arrows.] Three bells 6th Edward VI. 150 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Houghton, New, S. Martin — 1. + SANCTE . PETRE . ORA . PRO . NOBIS . DERBY . FECIT . ISTA . On crown, tkree crowned heads : see p. 55. Houghton on the Hill, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1 . Diameter 22 in. C. & Gr. Mears Founders London Eecast A.D 1857. Two beUs 6th Edward VI. Hoveton, S. John Baptist — 1. A very small bell, not inscribed. Three beUs 6th Edward YI. In 1764 the steeple had long been entirely down: there were three bells hanging in a shed in the churchyard, one of which had been broken, and part thereof stolen. A faculty was granted for the sale of the bells, the money to be applied towards the erection of a small steeple, and hanging up a new bell. Hoveton, S. Peter — 1. AB William Shidinge Anno Domini 1624 ^y Howe, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Thomas Newman at Norwich made mee 1702. Two beUs 6th Edward VI. In 1686 the church was in great decay, and the Bishop made an order to sell a broken bell to assist the parishioners in the repairs. Hunstanton, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1, John Stephens fecit 1726 Samuel Chapman Chvrchwarden One beU 6th Edward VI. Hunwobth, S. Laurence — 1. 1605^ Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1746 the Bishop of Norwich granted a facility for the sale of two bells, one whereof was cracked. The present bell is fractured in several places, and hangs by only one cannon ; some stout beams should be placed under it, as it may fall at any time. IcKBOROUGH, S. Peter — 1. Diameter 27^^ inches, t^omas tirapcT mt fecit 1582 o Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Illington, S. Andrew — 3. I, 2. Prays God Thomas Draper me fecit 1577. 3. +0 SANCTE □ THOMA [2] NOBIS □ TU GALTDIA □ DONA. Stops, the three-legged pot, p. 10, and the lion's face, p. 26. Two bells 6th Edward VI. LfGHAM, Holy Trinity and All Saints — 2. 1 . My treble is when I shovld sing St Andrews Tenner spoyle tliat rins: 1G61 TB CIIUKCH BELLS OF NOTIFOLK. 151 2. + AVE : MAEIA : GEACIA : PLENA : DOMINVS : TECVM [See p. 83.] The Inventory of 6th Edward VI. mentions three bells of 4, 5, and 7 cwts. then in the steeple, and adds, " Itm there great bell ys sould to S' Thomas Wood- hous knyght and delj^vered unto hym by the concent of the towneship and received for the same x''." A faculty was granted in 1799 to take do-mi a projecting biulding T\'ith a Gothic window against the south aisle, which was much out of repair and entirely useless ; and to sell three of five bells which it was dangerous to use, weighing about 26 cwts., and woi-th about £75. Ingoldisthorpe, S. Michael — 2. 1. John Draper made me 1641. 2. Tho. Newman Norwich made mee 1714. Two bells 6th Edward VI. iNGWORxn, S. Laurence — 1, 1820. A faculty was granted in 1823 for the sale of a bell weighing about 10 cwt., and worth about £30. Part of the tower had fallen, and it was necessary to take down the remainder and erect a cupola on the west end, and hang a smaller bell. There were two bells in Blomefield's time, one inscribed, (Ego .Scrijus titus sum. Intwood, All Saints — 1. Thomas Newman made me. Thomas & John Eackham C.W. 1737. Two bells 6th Edward VI. Irminglakd, S. Andrew. No church. Irstead, S. Michael — I. 1622. [By William Brend.] Two bells 6th Edward VI. In 1709 the parishioners were licensed to sell the least and biggest of their three beUs, which had been useless a long time, and to apply the money arising from the sale towards the repair of the south aisle. Islington, Blessed Virgin Mary — 2. 1. Blank. 2. |+( EOE THE YEEE OF QUE LOED GOD XDLVI. [See p. 56.] One beU 6th Edward VI. Itteringha^si, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. 4- AVE MAEIA GEACIA PLENA DNS TECVM. [See p. 83.] Three beUs 6th Edward VI. A faculty was granted in 1824 for the sale of the largest and smallest of three bells, weighing one ton, and worth £72, together ^\-ith lead worth £36. The insciiption on one of the bells .sold is given at p. 77. 152 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Kelling, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. T . Newman . made . me . 17;31 . T . Purdy . & . H . Bourne . CW. Two tells 6th Edward YI. Kempstox, S. Paul — 1. Diameter 27 in. Thomas Chamberlain Churchwarden 1820. One bell 6th Edward YI. Keninghall, Blessed Virgin llary — 8. Tenor P., c. 15 cwt. Diam- eter 44 J in. 1. Thomas Newman made me 1743 M"' Humphrey Layton Vicar . M'' T Dove Churchwarden. 2. Thomas Newman of Norwich made us 1, 2, 3, 4, in 1743. 3. M"' Gold . "Watson M^^ M Forster M' J Porster Jun' M" Margaret Sare. 4. M"^ Buslingham Chui'chwarden 1743 M"' J. Poster M'' R. Drake M' P. Groome. 5. + SunrtE Pctrc ©ra ^3ra Xobi's. 6. + jiCos ^Eijome iHcritis IBctEamur ©autit'a 3L^lCl0. On crown, three shields : Brasyer, p. 10. 7. William Bailey and John Eeve Churchwardens 1812. [By Dobson.] 8. Pack and Chapman London fecit 1774 James Poster Grocer. Four hells 6th Edward XI. Blomefield says, "Here are five very large tuneable bells ; on the three biggest are these inscriptions : 3. Sona tfpcntic pta . l^oga iHacjtalcna iHaria. 4. p)ac non faatic bia. nisi tiras 3bc fHaria 5tt srmpcr sine Fr, qui fHiriji iirat Hbr. 5. Crtplri i^rrsona, ^rinitas, nunc gaulJia Bona, ©ui Krgnas trinus ^Jrrsonis, ft Bcus unus." It would appear that the oth or tenor beU, which was reputed to weigh 25 cwt., was in 1743 cast into four small bells: the 4th and 3rd have been recast and are the present 7 and 8. It is, however, odd that Blomefield did not give the inscriptions on 5 and 6, the then treble and second beUs. KJENINGHAM IN" MuLBARTON. No Church. EJEKDiSTON, Blessed Virgin Mary. No Chm-ch. [See Eeepham.] Keswick, All Saints. Church in ruins. Keswick, S. Clement. No church. KETTEEiNGHAii, S. Peter — 5. 1,2. CI gratia ct fauorc artfturi ljruunrjf)am mili'tis tiamini mancuit , " AB tjc hcttrincjljam anna Domini 1610 ^y On the waist of 1, E. C. 3. + En ffiulti's 3lnnts [] Ecsonct Campana Uoljts. On crown, tluxe small shields : Brasyer, p. 31. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 153 4. + lUi'cus Baiter ISrasocr I9e Nortogca jFccft IHc. [See plate, p. 26.] 5. ISi @racia ^t Jatiore ^rtfjuri f^ciiongljam fHtlitfs ©amini IHancxit ©e iStettrmtjl^am anna Somi'ni 1610 "^ Thomas Hovyngham, by will dated 1499, bequeathed "to the halowyng of the bellys of Keteryngham xiij^ iiij''." 3 is the only bell of that date. There wore thi-ee bells 6th Edward VI. The tower fell in 1608 without injuring the bells. See Norfolk Archeology, vol. iii. p. 307. Kettleston, All Saints — 1. Elias Brand made me T.B . 1658. One bell 6th Edward VI. KiLVERSTON, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Diameter 31 inches. John Draper made me 1624. Three bells in 1552, and one clapper; but there is this memorandum on the In- ventory : " M. yt^ S'' Edmunde Knyvett Knyght A" iij" R. E. VI did take from the chm'che ther ij bell clappers." KiMBEELEY, S. Peter — 2. 1. Thomas Newman made me 1710. 2. + Pillei dei vivi miserere nobis Anno Doini 1578 I.B. [By John Brend, sen.] KiRBY Bedon, S. Andrew — 3. 1. E. E Hednam Henry Topsel Ano Dni 1585 E T. 2. No inscription. 3. Anno Domini 1635 I. B. [John Brend, jun.] The tenor being spHt, the present treble bell was bought to supply its place : it came from Hcdenham, and although a good bell, is qidto unsuited for this peal. Two bells 6th Edward VI. KiEBY Bedon, S. Mary — 3. In ruins. Two bells 6th Edward VI. Blomcfield says " the steeple is standing and is round, and had two large bells, which were lately taken dowm and placed in St. Andi-ew's chiu-ch." KiRBY CxVNE, All Saints — 5. 1. Anno Domini 1626. 2, 3. Edw Tooke made me 1677. 4. Eecast 1811 M"- W" Abbott Church Warden Thomas Mears of London fecit. 5. Anno Dni 1626. Nicolaies Marmovld William Stannord Chvrch S. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Kirstead, S. Margaret — 2. 1. 1587 W.B. [William Brend.] 2. E. H. A. L. Anno Domini 1635. I. B. [John Brend, jun.] Two bells 6th Edward VI. 1 cwt. and \ a cwt. In 1863 these bells hung in a cot on the west gable of the nave, over the remains of a double bell-cot. A tower has been since Imilt. T l04 INSCUTPTIONS ON THE Knapton, SS, Peter and Paul — 5. 1, 2, 4. T. Mcars of London Fecit 1825. On 4 also is, Sam' Baker John Cooper Church Wardens. 3. Anno Domini 1565 EB. IB. 5. □ facta etata ixotimi i s tj ^ r i [_i.e. facta crat anno domini, qy. 1592.] On crown, three shields : Brasyer, ermine, p. 31 ; stop p. 33. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Knettishall, All Saints. No cliurch. Lakenham, S. John Baptist and All Saints — 3. 1. T Mears of London fecit 1820. 2. Thomas Newman made me 1733. E . J & J . B . CW. 3. + atjc ©rncta □ ^Icnii. Cross and stop, p. 26. The tenor bell being split, was in 1820 cast into a treble. Lakenham, New, S. Mark — 3. 1,3. C. et G. Mears Peccrunt Londini MDCCCXLIV. 2. Campana Marire. Edoardus Browne Forrarius In Memoriam Marite Conjugis Dilectfe Anno Salutis MDCCCXLIV. C. et C Mears Londini Pecerunt. Lammas, S. Andrew — 4. 1 . William Mvtton John Kirby C. W. 1713. 2. 4. John Brend made me 1635. 3. John Brend made me 1654. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Langfoed, S. Andrew — 1. Diameter 21 in. Lester & Pack of London fecit 1768. John Ord [engraved.] Two bells 6th Edward VI. In 1764, one corner of the steeple having fallen do^^^l, a faculty was granted to take it down to the level of the church roof ; and in the following year another faculty authorized its entire demolition, the west wall of the chiu'ch being made good. Langhale, S. Stephen. No church.* Langham Magna, S. Andrew — 5. 1. C. Newman made me 1702 Samvell Earlo and Edmvnd Massingliam CW. 2. Anno Domini 1631. 3. Charles Newman made mee 1699. 4. John Beeston John Coe CW. 1753. 5. Thomas Gardiner NorAvich fecit 1753. Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1868 a faculty was granted for the sale of two useless bells, one being cracked, the other without a tongue, worth about £30, and old lead worth about £128, to assist in repairs, the expense of which -would amount to £30 more, the whole of which sum would be raised by the voluntary subsciiptions of well- disposed and pious persons. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 155 Langham Parva, Blessed Virgin Mary. No chiirch. Langley, S, Michael — 5. 1, 2, 3. C & G- Mears founders London 1852. 4. Samvel Gilpin fecit 1703. 5. E.B.*' IG E.G. 1607 W. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Lenwade. No church. Leeling, S. Ethelbert — 3. Tenor, diameter 48 in. 1. JOHN DEAFER MADE ME 1617. [Diameter, 36 in.] 2. + Sancta . IHaria . ©ta . ^la . Ho&i'g. On crown, three shields : Bell and cross-keys, p. G2 ; stop, p. 62. 3. + ©tina Ecpmtjc ^la n ^^op fHagtialma JHaria. On crown, three sliields : two bear Brasyer, ermine, p. 31 ; the thii-d, Norwich city, p. 11. Blomefield prints inscriptions, which he says were on the bells at this chui'ch : — 1st as No. 2 ; 2nd, jFac fHargarcta, &c. ; 3rd, (Ccksti iiJlanna, &c. Lessingham, All Saints — 3. 1. + svM : facta : in noNOEE trenitatis. [On crown.] + EDMVNDVS : NORMAN : ME : FIERI : FECIT. [See p. 85.] 2. + l^ac En condabe [H (Sabrtd i^uc ^anrjc Suaiie. 3. + j^os 9i:f)amE iHeritts □ fHcreanutt ©autiia ILucts. On crowns of 2 and 3 are respectively three small and three large shields : Brasyer, ermine, p. 31 ; crosses. No, 2, p. 32. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Edmund Noraian died lord of Filhy in 1444, and was buried in Cromer church. He had a son Edmund, but I can trace no connection -«ath this parish. In 13th Henry VI. John Norman, son of Henry Norman, a villain of this manor, had license from the king to be presented to any ecclesiastical benefice, notwithstanding his viUanage. — Blomefield, vol. xi. p. 218, ix. p. 328. Letheringsett, S. Andrew — 3. 1 and 2. Charles Newman made mee 1700 E. Girdlestone CW. 3. No inscription. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Letton, AU Saints. Church demolished. Lexham, East, S. Andrew — 1. + ITftfjinis CrjrErjfc □ Uocar Campana iKarfe. Cn crown, three shields: Brasyer, diapered, p. 10. Two beUs 6th Edward VI. Lexham, West, S. Nicholas — 1. J M. 1753. [Qy. Josepli Mallows.] Two bells 6th Edward VI. * Probably the initials of Richard Bemey, Esq., Lord of the Manor and Balron of the Chiu-ch, who died in 1615, and whose tomb remains on the south side of the chancel of St. Peter per Mountergate, Nor\\ icli. T 2 156 ixsciiirxioNs on the Leziate, All Saints. No churcli. In the Askwickcn Inventory for 1735, I find, "Also a small bell in one of the nitches of the Deniolisht chappcl of Lezeat weighing ahoiit 3 c\vt." This was sold shortly after 1740. LiMPENHOE, S. Botolph 1. Thomas Mears & Son of London Fecit 1809. Two hells 6th Edward YI. Ling WOOD, S. Peter — 1. Thomas Newman of Norwich made moe 1731. Three bells Gth Edward VI. LiTCHAM, All Saints — 5. 1. Matthew Halcott Hoc dedit 1672. 2. John Darbie made me 1672. 3. Matthew Halcott gave this bell 1672. 4. No inscription. 5. John Darbie made me 1670 Matthew Halcott Thomas ffeltwell CW. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. The Latin inscription upon the tomb of Matthew Halcot, gent., in the chui'ch- yard, is in part illegible ; but we learn from it that he died 30th July, 1675, in his 75th year, and that the bell-tower was wholly built at his expense. LoDDON, Holy Trinity — 8. Tenor G, c. 11 cwt. 1,2. C & Gr Mears Founders London William Hood--' MD 1853. 3, 4. Tho^ Lester & T. Pack Fecit 1752. 5. of ^ntljong fi^obcrt Esqugre 2^.13. CTfiurc^&Jartim Slun0 tjiu 1616 ^ 6. John Darbie made me 1669. N.B IN. CW. 7. Thomas Mears & Son of London fecit 1809. 8. ^ima Somtni 161S. On crown, thi'ee shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and ->y Eonr bells 6th Edward VI. It appears the peal was increased to five in 1616. Before 1706 there were six bells, the two smallest of which were recast in 1752. The following entries are extracted from the Chxirchwardens' Account books, to which the Vicar, the Rev J. J. Smith, kindly obtained me access. The accompt of Thomas Davj^ April 1617. To the Bellfounder for the bell weighinge six hundred and two and fifty pound at five poimds the hundred . . . . xxxij'' vj' v^ ffor the shotinge of x brasses weighinge njoie and fj'fty pound at vjJ the pound . . . . . . . . . . xxix« vj'' 1617-18. Layed out for the makeinge of the bond from Brando to the towne for the p'formance of Couenance . . . . . . 4"^ * The donor of these bells. f This roundel has the Hobart crest, on a wreath, a bull passant. Anthony Hobart lived at Hales Hall in Loddon. He was great grandson of Hemy Hobart, who was grandson of Sir James Hobart, Attornc}--Gcueral to Hcm-y VII., by whom Loddon chui'ch was built. 07 12 00 01 10 08 00 03 06 CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 157 Layed out to Brando for shottingc of the Bell & pvttinge in of 93" of mettcll . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 17 4 1669 Nicholas Briming John Newson Sen'" Churchwardens It. that the belHoundor had for casting the hell It. for goeing with the bell to Ipshwich & for oxpences It. for the bellfounder's comeinge to hange the bell 1752-3 pu ]\jr Thomas Lester of London for new casting the treble and 2'! bell w"' addition of metal wharfage landing loading and cartage for the old bells and wharfage and porterage in shiping the new ones .. .. ,, ., .. .. 29 16 11 1810 Pd M"- Blears & son the Balance of his bill for a new fourth bell 22 2 G It woidd appear from this entry that 6 and 7 are not correctly numbered. LoNGHAM, S. Andrew — 1. tijomas "Draper me fecit 1583, Three bells 6th Edward VI. A bell weighing about 7 cwt., which had been split for many years, was sold by faculty in 1757. In 1788, it being necessary to take down the tower to the bottom of the uppermost sounding windows at an expense of about £55, a faculty was granted for the sale of a bell weighing about 14 cwt., and worth about £25. LoPHAM, North, S. Andrew — 5. Tenor G, c. 12 cwt., diameter 39^- in, 1. Thomas Newman of Norwich made mee 1733. 2. Thomas Newman fecit 1733 John Cook & James Aldrich C. W : Eobert Howlett. 3. E, '^' G. 1666. [And two stamps of a crown pierced by two arrows in saltire : Eobert Grurney's mark.] 4. William Dobson founder 1811 Samuel Porter Churchwarden, 5. Tho' Osborn Founder Downham Norfolk 1799 Sam' Porter and Nath' Cooke Ch "Wardens. Four bells 6th Edward VI., also in 1600, see p. 45. n. 8. Bloniefield says one of the bells was inscribed jFilius Firgints X^lavtE tiat IsTobt's gaullia faitr. LoPHAM, South, S, Nicholas — 6. Tenor E, weight 19 cwt, 3 qrs. 18 lbs. 1. Tho. Gardiner Sudbury fecit 1733. [Impressions of coins.] 2. + Sancta . ilKaria . ora . ^Brona . 33 is 3. + Sancta . fHaria . ora . Pronobt's 4. + Thomas Gardiner S^ulbury fecit 1725. [Impressions of coins.] 5. + VIEGINIS o EGREGIE o VOCOE o CAMPANA o MAEIE. [See p. 50.] 6. Thomas Fox and Muunings Murrell Churchwardens William Dobson fecit 1831. The inscriptions en 2 and 3 arc entirely defaced. On 5 the word vocor alone remains. On crowns of 2 and 3 are three sliields: Bell and cross keys, p. 62 ; stops, p. 62. Five bells 6th Edward VI., 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 cwts. 158 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE LrDiLur, S. Catharine — 6. 1. T. Mears of London fecit 1825. 2. (Cfjomas Ei'ttlctDooti OLtillt'am ©rccne C^urdjinartms 1G19. iHust'ra CTampanarum Cor !i)ominis Consolat. 3. Soil !Ht Yni Zxina Deo 5it Hans %}ar\oi Et Gloria 1G19. 4. ^£c (Quinquc Campansc lEi ©uatuor Jactce jfmxz 1619 "^nnoque SamiiElt's p^arsrnt IZpfscopi Prima. 5. PER ME rN-TELLIGVXT VIVENTES QVI MORIA>'TVR 1637 IB WILLIAM GEEEJSTE EDMOND EOBBES CHVRCHWARDENS. AB On crowns of 2, 3, 4, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -.y -Four bells 6th Edward Yl. 7, 11, 14, and 18 cwts. Ltnford. No cliurch. Lyn'G, S. Margaret — 5. 1. lOHANES . DENE . ARMEGER . THO . HOWLET . MINESTER. lOHN DRAPER MADE ME W 1621 □ 2. lOHANN^ES DENNY ARMIGER PATRONTS . THO. HOTLIT . RECTOR . ISTITS ECCLE . SIE lOHN . DRAPER . MADE .ME 1621. 3. n JOHANES □ dent; . ARMEGER THO . HOWLET . MINISTER . lOHN . DRAPER MADE ME 1621. On L and 3 is, ititer alia. Draper's mark, p. 46. 4. + iFac IBargarcta jSTotis n P?cc fHunrra Erta. On crown, three sliields : Brasyer diapered, p. 10. 5. + Xos CTfjomc fHrcitis □ iiHcrcamur fficauTjia 5Luci». On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31. Solomon Leach gave to this parish, inter alia, sixteen pence annually to repaii- the bell-ropes as long as the world endure. Lynn, S. Margaret — 8. Tenor C. 30 cwt., diameter 55^ in. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8. Lester and Pack of London fecit 1766. With the following additions : 1 . Peace and good neighbourhood. 2. Musick is medicine to the mind. 3. Oiu' voices shall with joyful sound Make hills and valleys echo round. 5. To honour both our Grod and King Our voices shall in consort ring. 8. John Mather Leet Churchwarden. 6. Ye ringers all that prize Your health and happiness Be sober merry wise And you'll the same possess. 7. Eichard Marshall and Charles Crusoe Churchwardens. Thomas Osborn Founder Downham ISTorfolk AD 1800. Five bells 6th Edwai-d YI., 10, 14, 18, 22, and 28 cwt. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 159 Mackercll tells us that the gi-eat bell was called " the Margaret, and was for her " curious sound one of the finest of that kind, and might be heard (the wind "favoui-ing, as I have been assur'd) full ten miles distant. Others had "likewise their distinct names as the Trinity, the St. Thomas, &c., so " christened, I suppose as was usual before the Reformation. But the biggest " and the least of these was pui-posely broken, and with some Addition cast " into others, to make a Ring of Eight which was effected in the year 1663, "as they remain to this Day." He also tells us that the 4th bell was new cast in 1627 by Draper of Thetford, yet in 1673 the two great bells were called the Margaret and Thomas, as appears from the churchwardens' account for that year. " The said Churchwardens are J)" to y-' p'ticuler amount of the Two Great Bells " vizt. the Bell Margarett & Thomas as followeth : — "Bell Margaret £7 12 "Bell Thomas £2 17 6." Ah' late as 1752 the 7th and 8th bells still went by those names. The following entries are from the St. IMargaret's account books. 1765 Feb. 1^* By articles between the churchwardens and Lester & Pack of St St for the bells for church & chapel 1766 June 28* By expenses of Ringers upon openiuL Margaret's Bells „ Sept. 20 By Nor\\ich ringers & expenses on openin: Nicholas' Bells 1767 Mar. 25 By Insurance of Bells „ Apl. 22 „ do chapel Bells „ Apl. 22 „ Cash to Mess'^ Lester & Pack towards S* Margaret's & S' Nicholas' Bells 1768 May 2-t By Cash to M-" W'" Bagge towards chapel Bells „ „ „ Cash to Mess''^ Lester & Pack in fidl for S* Margts & St Nich' Bells £1 1 £9 6 8 £2 10 £7 8 6 £6 5 6 £247 2 6 £14 8 lOi £285 7 2 Lynn, S. Nicholas— 8. John Taylor & Co Lougliborough 1868. The inscriptions on the old bells, as copied in 1848 by the Rev. J. J. Raven, were : — 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7. Lester & Pack of London fecit 1766. 1 and 2 were fui-thor inscribed: — 1. Although I am both light and small I vnU be heard above you all. 2. At i^roper times our voices we will raise In sounding to our benefactors' praise. 5. John Hemington and Tho^ Hanldnson Chapel Reeves Thomas Osbom Founder 1800. 8. Thomas Mears Founder London 1841. There was also a clock bell wliich formerly himg outside the spire, but which in 1859 stood in the church, and was inscribed J D. 1613. One steeple bell 6th Edward VL, 16 cvd,. Mackerell tells us there were "five " good tunable bells, but none of them of an antient date." Lynn, North, S. Edaumd. Ciiiirch destroyed. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. 160 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Lynn, Sotjth, All Saints — 1. Lester & Pack of London fecit 1765. Four bells Gth. Edward VI., 6, 8, 10, and 12 cwts., and a sance beU of half a cwt. In 1764 the jiarishioners agreed not to rebuild the steeple, then fallen, but to get estimates for new wall, &c., a turret for one bell, and an estimate of value of the remaining four. In Dec. 1765 I find, P\ and 4i cwts. There are frames for two other bells. Narford, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Diameter 35 inches. + JD&lcfs Cisto iWelis □ Campana Uacat fHi'd/s. On crown, throe small shields : Brasyer, j). 31 ; cross No 3, p. 32. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 5, 8, and 11 cwts. In 1758 a faculty was granted for the sale of two bells to assist in the rcpaii-s of the church. ( IIURCII I'.ELLS OF NORFOLK. 167 Neatishead, S. Peter — 1. 1791. Three bells 6th Echvard VI., 6, 8, and 12 cwts. In 1695, the parishioners having rejjresonted to the Bishop that the tower loni^ since fell down, and two of their tkroe hells were cracked, obtained jjcrmission to sell them, and hang the remaininji; bell, which was the tenor. Nectois", All Saints — 6. Tenor, diameter 42 inches. T Mears of London fecit 1833. Tenor lias in addition : — This peal of six bells was hung June 1833 in the reign of His Majesty W" the 4"^ W™ Mason Esq"''' Jun'' Acting Trustee of j" Town Estate Thomas Young Clerk Eector Eicliard Eansome & John Earrer Churchwa^d"^ Three bells 6th Edward VI., 8, 10, and 12 cwts. ; a little bell called a saunce bell, and two hand bells. Needham, S. Peter — 3. Smaller bell hanging. + Sancta : fHari'a : ©nt : ^ra : Nobis Stop engraved p. 62. Larger bell hanging. 1629. Bell unhung. Anno Domini 1566. LB [Jolm Brend, sen.] It is said that some years ago a bell was sold to pay some one's passage to America. Newton b}^ Castleacre, All Saints — I. + NOS SOCIET SCIS SEMPER NICiiS IN ALTIS. [See p. 80. IJz inform. Eev. J. H. Bloom, Vicar of Castleacre.] On crown, three shields : Brasyer, diapered, p. 10. Newton Flot^tan, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. anno tint 1616. [By William Brend.] Thi-ee bells 6th Edward VI., 4|, 7f , and 9 cwts., two hand bells and two sacre beUs. A bell was sold about thirty years ago to help to repair the chui-ch. Newton S. Faith's. No church. Newton, Trowse. See Teowse Newton. Newton, West, SS. Peter and Paul — 1. No inscription. Neyland in Wreningham, S. Peter. No church. North Eepts. See Eepps, North. North W.iVLsn.v]M. See Walsham, North. NoRTHWOLD, S. Andrew — 6. Tenor E, diameter 40 inches, 12 cwt. 1. AVilliam Dobson fecit 1818, 2. Fear God and honour the King. 3. AVilliam Dobson Downham Norfolk fecit 4. Give no ofiFence to the Church. 1G8 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE 5. William Dobson Founder 1818. 6. The Eev'' George Waddington Eector John Pooley Cliurch- warden 1818. Two steeple 1)0118 6tli Edward YI., 8 and 10 cwts., and " one l;r"tlc clok IjoU wayeing half a himdred wa;y'te." The following advertisement appeared in the local newspaper of the 16th May, 1818. "NEW PEAL OF SIX BELLS. " A new peal of six bells (the tenor in the key of G) cast and himg by Mr. " William Dohson of Downham, will be opened on Tuesday next, 19th instant, " at Northwold in Xorfolk, on v/hich occasion prizes of ten guineas and five " guineas ■will be given to such Companies of Eingcrs as shall perform the " best and next best peals of 720 complete changes. N.B. — On contending " for the prizes each Company will have the liberty of ringing any six-beUs' " peal it may think proper. A delegate from each Society is requested to " meet the Churchwardens at the Bull Inn, at 10 o'clock in the morning, for "the purpose of appointing umpires.^ — Northwold, May 14, 1818." Norton, Blo, S. Andrew — 5. Tenor A sharp, 8 cwt. T. Osborn Downham fecit 1794. In addition, 1. I mean to make it understood That tho' I'm little yet I'm good. 6. Eev. Charles Brown Hector James Murton Church- warden. These were cast out of thi-ce bells, inscribed — 1. SaiTctc Eoljanncs ora pro nobis. 2. 5anctc (iTatrrina ora pro nobis. 3. © iBartir Barbara ^ro fHc Drum ^lxtiX7^.—\_Blomefwld, i. 248.] No ETON, PuDDESTG, S. Margaret. No Church. Norton, Wood, All Saints. No church. Norton, Y/ood, S. Peter — 1. John Brooke + James Pawley + C.W. + Tho=Gardiner + fecit 1753. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. In 1699, the steeple being down, the three beUs smaU and cracked, and himg in a low shed in the churchyard, and the houses in the parish being scattered and at a distance, it was impossible for the parishioners to know when they should repair to church ; leave therefore was granted by the Bishop to collect a fund to enable them to melt down the thi-ee bells into one, and to rebuild a ^wrtion of the stoeiDle to hang it in. Norton Subcourse, S. Margaret — 4. 1. Anno Domini 1622. AB On cro^vn, tlu'ce shields : Norwich city, Brasj-er, ^ 2. Thomas Newman made mee .... John Garwood CW. 1730. 3. As God AVill So Be It Ao Do 1593. WB. 4. ^nna Somtni 1620. 1, 3, and 4 arc by William Brcnd. 3 has very good capital letters. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 169 Norwich Cathedral, Tlie Holy Trinity— 5 and a clock bell. Tenor F sharp, diameter 42 inches. 1. + jFac iHargarcta i^obis f^cc fHuncra Ecta. On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, erinine, p. 31 ; cross, p. 26. 2. + ©uesiimus ^ntjrca □ jFamuIorum Suscipc Fata. 3. Anno Domini 1635 I.E. [John Brend, jun.] 4. + xv^ iiji"' & xxvi'' weyeth after, &c. . . . . . . . . . . . . / And this v^'^ bell weyed when yt went to be yotten but xiiii"^ iiii'' & xxvj' & so yt weyeth now more an C. Sum'a TqI's of theis v Belles their weight liii'= ix' ¥' me Ricm' Hewson. N° 6. M'l The Syxt & greattest bell was bought of the Prior- of the black fryers at the dissolutyon of the hows & weyed than after v^^ & xij'' to the C xxij'= & cost xvj' as in the accompt of Thomas Beamonde the elder made in anno d'ni 1538 dothe apere and after that in anno 1566 yt brack & was yotten agajTi & made moche bigger as in the accompt of that yere of Thomas Beamonde the yonger & others apere & weyeth now at this present . . . . J per me Thomam Beamond. Thys sentence ys (was) wrytten abought the great bell — Laudo deimi verum . plebem voco . convoco clenim Defunctos ploro . Pestem fugo . Festa decoro . (In a hand of 1633 added)— This sentence was written about the great BeU made in anno 1566. Anno Domini 1566 Campana ista facta erat . Sancta quidem non simi sanctos conservor in usus. N° 4. 15 Nov. 1589. Will Brand Bell founder agreed to take do-w-n y? Fourth Bell then broken & to new cast it & hang up again y* it shall be tunable with the rest of the Bells & shall continue so a whole yeare to be rung & that he shall not add above 20 or 30"^ of new mettaU but at his own cost And he have for his pains £4 10 or if it should prove farther chargeable than he now supposeth than he to have in all £5. It weigheth 13 C & 76 ^^ 10 Dec 1589. This sentence is written about the fourth bell — Blessed be the Lord our God both now and evermore. M-i The fourth BeU was cast by W"" Brand the 20th of March 1608 and contcyne in wayght just xiij= iijq'' & xijib and was paid him for the castj'nge therof by the Church Wardyns the som of Fower pounds. N" 5. 22 April 1621 WUl Brande BeU founder ha\-ing new cast the fifth BeU & for wh he had Five poimds ten shiU's did covenant y* if y« said BeU should be broken or other -wise miscarry in one year next he would take it down & new cast it again at his own charge & hang it up & y' the same should be timeable with ye rest of y^ Bells. M'' at the makinge of the New frames for the BeUs which was in anno 1633 the sixth and greatest BeU was taken down and new yoten to be made tuneable to the rest of the 5 Bells & wayghed 26 C | or ther about which being new cast by WiU Brend Belfounder & of 21 C weight it proved to Uttle And upon the 16* day of AprU 1634 was new cast againe by him made bigger & waighcd then 24 C f & ll"* butt then proving somewhat too bigg to accord with t Ob. 1508. X Ob. 1502. u 2 172 INSCRIPTIONS ON THK the rest of the Bells & otherwise defective in the Casting it was first ski\Ted and then after ward some part of the head viz. the upper part of the majnie Connell brake of by w'^ skivring & breaking off thirty six pounds of the waight of mettal was taken away & then it wayed 24 C 2v 3"> unto which was added when it was cast again the third time T"" of pewter being 18 Decemb 1635 by John Brend & now it wayes according to our own waight being waigh in Christmas HolUdays 1635 here at our Chui'ch 23 C l-s, in 1459, gave £4 towards buying a new bell. The earliest churchwardens' account book remaining is marked No. 2, 1716 — 1761. I find no mention in 1740 of the clock bell boiag cast, but the following entries occur under the year 1720. "The 31 of August 1720. It is this day agreed at a parish meeting that the " present Churchwardens Do cause to be Erected and sett up in the Steple a " New Clock and a Dyall or movement at the East Sound Hole and one in the " Church And gett the Saints Bell new Cast with propper addition of mettle " to be hung up or fixed on the top of the Steple for the Clock to Strike on, " the old Clock to be disposed of towards the Charges the rest to be paid for " by the Inhabitants in the church-wardens rate." Nov 30 to expense when the Clock bell came home and putting out y^ DyaU work and to work men 2 6 Mar 4 to the New Clock beR 12 13 to the new Clock and Iron work for ye Dyalls 17 Norwich, S. George Tombland — 5, a clock bell and a saint's bell. Tenor G sharp. 1. 4- in : mortis : hora : pro : me : georgi : precor : ora. [See p. 84.] _ _ ^ 2. + AVE : MAEIA : GEA : PLENA ; DNS : TECV. [See p. 83.] 3. + AVE MAEIA GEACIA PLENA. [See p. 80.] 4. 4- : : SIDVS : CELI : FAC : BAEBAEA : CEIA : DELI : [See p. 80.] 174 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE AB I presume 3 and 4 to Tenor F sharp, diameter 5. ^nno 'Bomini 1619. On crown, three shields : Brasyer, Norwich city, and ^^ Saint's bell, not hung. B . 1590. Clock bell. The gift of Charles Maltby to the parish of St. Georges Tombland 1786. The tower is said by Blomefield to have been built in 1445. be the 1 and 2 of the original peal. Norwich, S. Giles — 8 and a clock bell. 43i^ inches, weight 14i cwt. 1, 2. Tho : Newman made me 1738. 3. No inscription. Sharp canons. 4. ANNO DOMINI 1593 W.B. [William Brend] 5. + l^ac in (Eonclaue ffiabriel nuc ^ange Suaue. On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31. 6. + i^tssus Ucra ^fe ©abrtel iPert £eta fHarfe. 7. + (Edi Ecgina ^Lanrjucntibus □ Sit fHetifcina. 8. + STtipIci persona Exinitm CIl ^"c ffltabtjia iBona. This bell was split through being clogged for a death, and has been recast with this inscription : Cast by John Warner & Sons, London, 1869. On waist, Royal Arms and Patent. Clock bell. No inscription. I c^(L o CO [^ I — I O H- CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 175 The 6th, 7th, and 8th bells were the original peal put up shortly after the tower was built, early in the 15th century, and were probably cast by Eichard Baxter. The inscription upon the tenor is etched on the ojjposite page, and three of the capital letters are engraved full size. The 5th bell is by Brasyer, and the 4th by Wm. Brend. It was bought, Kirkpatriek tells us, with part of the money arising from the sale of the materials of the chancel, pulled down about 1592. The third bell was probably cast by Gilj^in, no doubt not many years before 1709; as in the Visitation In- ventory of that year its exact weight is given, four hundred and forty-foui- pounds. The two trebles, says the Inventory of 1740, " were purchased in " the year 1738 by a voluntary siibscription of the parishioners and of other "gentlemen in the City of Norwich." The clock bell first mentioned in the Inventory of 1735, is said, in 1740, to weigh 2 cwt. When Eai-kpatrick wrote, in 1712, there was a sacring or saint's bell dated 1610. John of Colton, citizen of Norwich, by his will, dated 9th January, 1457, directed as follows : — " My body to be buried in the church of St. Giles of Over- newport next the graves of my mother and my wife to whose high altar I bequeath for my tithes forgotten 12'' Item I bequeath to the repairs 40' Item I give and de\'ise a piece of land containing one acre with its appurtenances in Heygham next Norwich to the parishioners of the said church on condition that they for ever cause the ringing called ' Cm-few bell ' faithfully to be observed in the said church every night." Kirkpatriek notes from a deed of 1474, that the land was called Colton's Acre, and that the ringing was to be during one quarter of the ninth hour at night. He adds, " Tradition tell that this Coulton coming towards y^ City one night " lost his way heard the great bell of this church and escaped drowning, &c." The bell is now rung every night, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, at eight in the winter and nine in the summer, for one quarter of an hour. Norwich, S. Griles's Hospital. A P. ^nna Wamini 1625 ^ The frames for four large bells remain. Bell over cloister roof. ifjEsus nasarEmis tfi iutic0rum mbtxlbit. See p. 85, where the date is incorrectly gi^■en as 1548. Norwich, S. Grregory — 6 and a clock bell. Tenor G sharp. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. T. Mears of London fecit 1818. 6. John Fox Priest & William Eackham Church Wardens 1818. T Mears fecit. Clock bell. Thomas Newman made mee 1701. Thomas Mears's estimate for these bells is here given : — An estimate to cast six Musical Bells Tenor to weigh 10 cwt. The whole Peal will (weigh) 40 cwts. a little more or less at 18'' per . , . . 336 Six Clappers taking the old in Exchange . . . . . . 3 Taking down the Old Bells and Frame and making and putting up a new and substantial one also Six New Stocks, Six new wheels. Ironwork, recast Brasses and Hang the Peal compleat the Parish to find Timber for Frame & Bell ropes . . . . 75 414 To allow for Old Bells w^ 43 Cwts a little more or less at U^ per 280 18 8 133 1 4 176 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE It was agreed that Clears should oast the bells at the price given in his estimate, and that Thomas Hurry should hang them for £50, which sum is charged in the 1818-19 account. In the following year Mears was paid £118 17 2. The weight of each hell is here given : — cwt. qrs. lbs. cwt. qrs. Ihg. 1. 5 3 21 4. 8 9 2. 6 1 4 5. 10 4 3. 6 2 25 6. 10 3 8 The inscriptions on the old bells are given by Blomefidd, vol. ii. p. 681, fo. ed. 1. Dulcis sisto metis, Campana vocor Michaelis. 2. Sanctus Gregorius Papa. 3. Gabriel ave, hac in conclave, nunc pange suave. 4. In multis annis resonet Campana Johannis. 5. Nos societ Sanctis semper Nicolaus in altis. In the Norwich Mercury of the 29th August, 1818, occurs a paragraph having reference to the new bells, in which I find, " On examining the old ones the " 2nd was broken from the crown of the bell do^vn to its sound bow. One of " them bears the date of 1018." In the chm-chwarden's book I find in 1641, " Item p*! for Castinge the Sts Bell and for Carriage of it w' the Buckle for the same xlvij^." In 1701, " P"^ for running y« Sans Bell 01 12 06." Norwich, S. Helen. Cliurch demolished centuries since. The parish- ioners attend the Hospital church of S. Giles. Norwich, S. James — 1. AB ^Txna JBamini 1625 ^ In 1547 the churchwardens, who had sold 171 ozs. of plate, certified, inter alia, that they had paid £4. 3s. " for the yoten of a bell and for other charges abowt the same." There were three bells here until about 1842, when the two largest were sold to assist in the repairs of the chui-ch. Norwich, S. John Maddermarket — 6. Tenor G sharp, 12 cwt. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Lester and Pack of London fecit 1765. In addition. 2. Peace and good neighbourhood. 4. o o T Eawlins G Martin and W Levingstone Churchwardens o o 5. In Wedlock bands all ye who join With hands your hearts unite So shall our tuneful tongues combine To laud the nuptial rite. 6. Patrick and Osborn of London Founders 1782 John Lock and William Dix Church Wardens. In the ch arch wardens' book I find that it was agreed at a vestry meeting held 4 Dec, 1764, to take down the tenor bell, it being too hea-\y for the tower, which was in a state of decay ; and to place two lesser bells in its stead, at an expense not exceeding £10. 10s. This does not however appear to have been carried out, I believe that what was really done was this : of the 1, 2, 3, 5 of the peal, A%dth the saint's bell, were made five bells, with the old foiu-th, said to have been the finest bell in Norwich, for a tenor. In the accoimt for 1765-6 I find among the debits, " By Cash of Capt. Debbenham for Damage of v- Bell .. .. .. .' 8 08 0." CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 177 On the other side : — Mess" Lester and Pack for y= Bells Recasting &c. . . . . 47 02 8 Pettingall's Bell for rchanging &c. 28 00 Freight of the Bells up to London and Back again . . . . 6 06 8 P'l y'' Eingers at y« opening and other expences . . . . 1 07 1770. Paid M'' Turner for rehanging the heUs 40 The weight of the peal is stated in the Visitation Inventory of this year to he 44 cwt. 3 qrs. 1782-3. By cash paid N. Lock for taking down the Bell and setting up the New Bell 207 By cash paid for Carriage and freight of the old bell . . . . 17 6 By do Patrick and 0° for exchange of Bell . . . . . . 15 15 1823. Hurry for rehanging Bells and frames .. .. . . 35 4 10 Blomefield has preserved the inscriptions on three of the old hells — fijac in conrlabf, (Sabricl nunc pangc suabc. Dona rcpcntic ^ia, Eop fHagtiaUna fHarta, Sum Kosa pulsata IHunlii, itlaria Focata. Norwich, S. John Sepulchre— 5 and a clock bell. Tenor G sharp. 1. Anno Domini 1628. 2. T Mears of London Fecit 1824. 3. + Hn IHuItis ^nnis Eesonrt (fTampana 3o\}'iQ. On cro^vn, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31. 4 AB 5. + ^RB n En n Campanaa □ JFormasti □ ^ottete □ JE^ontas. Stops, the lion's face and pot engraved at pp. 26 and 10 ; also a piece of foliage not engraved. The cross is engraved at p. 26. Clock bell. Samuel Jessupp John Smith 1706. Blomefield says that 3 was the largest hell here until St. Bartholomew's bells were brought hither in 1549, when that church was desecrated, and the two parishes consolidated. AVhat else he says as to the beUs is so palpably inaccurate that I do not repeat it. Norwich, S. John Timberhill — 1. anno Ini 1610 E.G. W.B. I.B. [William and John Brend.] " Norwich, 31 August, 1784. At a vestry meeting held this day it was then and " there agreed that an advertisement should be inserted in both the Norwich " Newspapers on Saturday next for an estimate to be given within seven days " from this date for taking down the remains of the Tower of the Parish '• church and to clear away the Rubbish." It appears from the account for 1784-5 that James Eiggs was paid £27 for taking do-«Ti the steeple. In 1785 a faculty was granted, which, after reciting the fall of the greater part of the steeple, and the total inability of the parishioners to rebuild it, grants leave for the sale of four of the five bells, three whereof were broken, worth about £70. It further apj)rars from the churchwardens' accounts that 1 1 cwt. 2 qrs. of bells were sold at 60s. per cwt., realising £34. 10s., and that 8 cwt. 1 qr. 21 lb. sold to the churchwardens of S. Andrew's, at 70s. per cwt., realised £29. 10s. 7|d. This is now the eighth beU at that church. Old lead and iron, producing £20. 19s., were also disposed of. Kirkpatrick says the treble was 21 in. high, 25 in. wide ; the tenor 31 in. high, and 36 in. wide. 178 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE NoRwicn, S. Julian — 1. + ^uc Crract'a plena □ Bominbs Crcum. On crown, three shields : Brasyer diapered, p. 10 ; cross, No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. Norwich, S. Laurence — 6. Tenor E, 44 inches. 1,2. T. Newman fecit. T. Trett and W. Towler C.W. 1737. 3. -f VOCOR : JOHANNES ; [On crown.] + WILELMVS ; EEYEL ; ME ; FECIT. Height to crown 28 in., diameter at mouth 34§ in., see plate opposite; the letters are illustrated at p. 54. 4. ^nna Sammi 1615 W. [By William Brend.] 5. n ABC n DEE [J ABCD \J EFG [J GHI [J DE. On crown, two shields : Brasyer diapered, p. 10 ; and a capital S ; stop engraved at p. 33. 6. Charles Newman made mee 1701 Micah Andrews Thomas Barlow CW. The certificate of the churchwardens, made in 1547, sets forth that they had sold 397 ounces of plate, at 4s. lid. the ounce; and two bells, whereof one was hroken, weighing together 12| cwt., at 20s. the cwt., the sum total being £110. 6s. lid. Amongst the items of expenditure are the following : — First we have bought foure bells that did belong to the late College of our lady in the Fyld in Norwich weying in the hooll xxxiiij hundreth at xsiij^ iiij"^ the hundreth . . . . . . . . xxxix'' xiij^ iiij"! Itm payde for y taking downe of the said bels for carriage of them to Saj-nct Laurence and for hanging them up in the steple and for making of a newe stocke for oon bell, and for ij beU wheles and for bolts of yron for the same and for other charges about them . . . . iij'' viij* iiij^ Itm payde for fowre bell clappers . . . . . . . . xl^ vj<* Itm payd for a newe bell soller * . . . . . . I'^'iij' iiij"* The Inventorj^ of the College of our Blessed Lady in the Felds, dated 36 Henry YIIL, gives the weights of the bells, 13, 9, 7, and 5 cwt., and a sauns bell of ^ a cwt., in all 34^ cwt., valued at 20s. the cwt. The chui'chwardens' account books, commencing in 1590, were until within a few years preserved in the vestry. They are now unfortunately lost. The only notice of the recasting of the present fourth bell I have found is among the receipts: "Aiio 1615. More rest w'^i was gathered for the third bell when it was new cast as by the bill ap'th . . . . . . 2 18 7 At the Visitation in 1695 the pari.sh was fined for a split bell, no doubt the tenor. In 1698 5Ir. Gilpin came "to see the bells," and in 1701 some of the parishioners desired that the tenor should be made into two bells, but better counsels prevailed, and I find these memoranda in the oldest parish book : — November the 7* 1701. The AYeight of the great splitt beU being this day taken down and weighed contain thirteen hundred one quarter and six pounds weighed in our parish church before the parishioners then mett vpon the same occasion. S^Bariot"'' 1 Churchwardens. * Space -will not allow me to give further extracts from this inedited certificate ; sufiice it to say that the chiu-ch was ceiled, a now font and a new pulpit bought, and one of the aisles roofed. 4 5 10 2 10 CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 179 Febry 27* 1701. Kec'ed tlien of M' Charles Newman Bellfounder our New great Bell Weighing fourteen himdi-ed and an half and fourteen pound. The. Barlow ) /-n. v ^ ilicah Andrews ) Ch'^chwardens. Test. Thomas Gooch Rector of St. Lawrence. Eob*. Emperor jun. for loading ye bell vnto cart and carriage to blakeny . . . . 15 To M"' Low for letting down ye bell . . . . . . ..250 At M'' Brown's for a bond making and expenses with Mr. Browne and Bell founder . . . . . . ..054 To the Bellfoimder for runing the great Bell with addition of 1 cwt. 1 qr. 8 po. of new mettall . . . . . . . . 22 18 9 In 1702 it was agreed at a parish meeting to have a new treble, but the business proceeded no further then, for at the Visitation in 1709 there were only five bells and a saint's bell, In 1737, the treble being split, it was recast at the parish charge, and a new treble added by subscription. The following- entries relate to this transaction : — P^ for taking down down the split bell & cartage to Bear Street gates P"! for fetching home the new-cast bells & drawing 'em up the steeple P<^ M'' Newman Bell founder's bill for casting the old split Treble into a second w'^^ 47"' of additional metal . . P. It R ye newe bell 600 k d a qrt. k 1'' [i.e. 6 c. 3 qrs. 1 lb.] 180 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE It R for every ponde of y" Oulde boll 3''. And p*! for every ponde of y*" Newe bell 6^. And so y^ bell was & he baton in y Sm 2s And so p"! . . . . . . . . . . . 59* It p"* for a oblygacyon betwene y^ p'ishners of y'^ pisbe & W"" Brande ConsemjTige y« new bell . . . . xij"* 1588. I' A newe Cyppe for y<^ great beU . . . . . . S"* 1611. M^ that the abouesayed John Brooke & Edward Ward (in Consideracon of the Chargis about the Casting of the Belles w<:h is greate, And the rate lately made by the p'ishners, for the discharging of that said Charges w'^'' is yet \Tigathered & vn. satisfyed & for that also they the sayd Churchwardens haue entred band to the belf ounder for the payment of that 8• t'i T, AIT ;i r Cnui-cnwardens. Stephen Wood J In 1783 the upper part of the tower fell, and in 1784 we learn from the terrier that there were " fFoux bells one being lately sold and thi-ee of the other four are to be sold forthwith towards defraying the expences of repau-ing the Church steeple * and the remaining Boll is to be put up in some convenient part of the Church to give notice of divine service." This was the second bell of the five, and was cast by Edward Tookc, and dated 1672 ; as I learn from the Norfolk News of 6th Miirch, 1858. It was spUt before December, 1857, for then, at a vestry mooting, it was resolved that Hurry's estimate for a new bell be accepted. The treble bell of the old peal went to Brockdish. *The rebuilding of the tower was compl<-tcd by 1789, as in that year tho pinnacles were put up. 2 6 6 6 2 2 7 1 8 CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 181 Norwich, S. Mary Coslany — 6 and a sanctus. Tenor B. 1, 2. Blank. Rectangular cannons. 3, 4. lolm Brand made me 1640. 5. + Hn ilBluItfs ^nnrs □ Ecsonet Campana 3o\)Q. 6. + Sulds €ist0 fHelt's D Campana Focor ffitcbls. On crowns of 5 and 6, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 3L Sanctus. No inscription. There were five bells in the 6th Edward VI., whereof one was called a gahriel bell, and weighed one cwt. ; the others weighed 5, 8, 10, and 12 cwts. It would appear from the churchwardens' accounts, that in 1640 the tenor of the peal of four was taken away, and two trebles added by John Brend, thus making the peal five. In 1682, 3, 5, a similar thing was again done, and the peal made six by IMr. Gilpenn, who for some imexplained reason — perhaps the job was not completed to the satisfaction of the parishioners — -was not paid until 1695. Subjoined are some of the pajTnents made on account of the bells : — 1640-41. Spent with Brend att severall Meettings & when the bells wer Eunn Payde for makinge the bande . . p"* Brend flbr Runinge the Bells w^^ a battment for metteU payd Rouse the Smith as by his bill appereth 1682-3. Pnhe Smiths bill PJ WUl starling for altring y« frames in y steeple & fixing y" bells p'^ y^ bell taking downe & sending to y<^ pit & other expences at y' time .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..046 1683—5. P'^ for two bells bringing from y*" pit . . . . . . . . ..058 P<* for y« jorn bault & helpe to put one y Stocke one y^ beU & Collers & shears for y^ great bell .. .. .. .. ..016 1693-4. Pd to Edward fuller for bring y" last bell & expense for help to wajdng .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..019 1695-96. August y 5. paid to M"^ Gilpenn 900 Kirkpatrick says that this peal, " though little, yet when rung are melodious enough. The treble is but 22 in. wide, and 19 in. high. The tenor is 2 ft. 8 in. wide, and 2 ft. 3 in. high." Norwich, S. Mary Little. No bell. It appears from the City Chamberlain's accounts for 1544, that the bell frame was taken to the Common Hall, the ninth week after Michaelmas, 36 Henry VIII. Norwich, S. Michael Coslany — 8. Tenor F sharp, c. 14 cwt., diameter 43^ inches. 1, 2. Charles Harwood & James Cobb Chvrch Wardens . J . S . 1726. [By John Stephens.] 3, 4. Edw: Tooke made me 1676. 5. + Sancta . iJEaria . [©ra] . fro . ilobi's. On crown, three shields : Bell and cross keys, p. 62 ; stop, p. 62. Ora obliterated. This bell came from Rockland All Saints. The old 5th was si^lit 14th December, 1841, and was inscribed "^N'os tlTomc fBirvitis mcrcamuv gniitiia ILuris." 182 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE 6. lolan Brend made me 1638. 7. + rirgtm's lEgTcgie n Uocor Campana fHari'e. 8. + fHimcrc 33aptistc □ 53cnctitctus Sit €f)orus 3istc. On crowns of 7 and 8, three large shields : Brasyer, ermine, p. 31 ; cross on 7, No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33 ; cross on 8, No. 3, p. 32. The two smaller beUs were bought by public contributions, and hung on the 5th of February, 1725-6; they weigh 3 cwt. 3 qrs. 21 lbs., and 4 cwt. In 1727, 10080 changes were rung on the eight bells in 6 h. 28 m. Norwich, S. Michael at Plea — 1 and a sanctus. 1. I Tvas rais'd by a free subscription of the parish of ... . Thos. Lester & T. Pack fecit me. Sanctus. Blank. 1 was bought of Thomas Hurry about 1824, and is said to have been the treble or a clock beU at Stonham Aspal, Suffolk. In the 6th Edward YI. there were five bells, 2, 3, 6, 9, and 11 cwt., and a Gabriel bell, weighing h a c^^•t. In 1777 the steeple was in a weak condition, and had been banded with iron about fifteen years before, at which time one of the bells was taken out of the frame. There was also a cracked bell, which with the other weighed about 9 cwt., and they were worth about £27. A faculty to sell them is dated 1777. Ten years later the parishioners, in their petition to the Bishop for a faculty for the sale of the two smallest of the three remaining bells, worth about £24, set forth that the steeple was in such a dilapidated and dangerous state that it had been thought advisable to take down about 10 feet thereof, and to erect a cupola to receive one bell. The expenses of this and repairing the church amounted to £516. 18s. The faculty is dated 5 April, 1787. Norwich, S. Michael at Thorn — 1. Pack and Chapman of London Fecit 1777 John Spratt and Henry Warns Ch. Wardens. There were three bells here until about 1838, when the two largest were sold, to help to build a hideous north aisle, recently replaced by a much more comely structure. They are now the first and second bells at Bale, see p. 95. The inscription on 2, " Nobis Succurre ilichael Raphael CJabriel Quaesumus," is unique. Norwich, S. Paul — 1. + '^tc Jit Scorum Campa Hautie ^jononim. On crown, three large shields: Brasyer ermine, p. 31 ; cross, No. 2, p. 32; stop, p. 33. It was the tenor to a peal of three. The first bell is now at Postwick, the second at the adjoining parish of Witton. They were sold between 1813 and 1820, probably in 1815. Norwich, S. Peter Hungate — 1 and a sanctus. I. Thomas Newman made me 1707. Sanctus. Blank. 1 was the second to a peal of three, the treble of which was inscribed — En ijonore Santte fflaril i'irginis, and, having been split on AldeiTuan Turner's Guild- day, 1834, was with the tenor sold in 1847, when the present vestry was built, for £31. 4s. 9d. Kirkpatrick found that the treble measured 27 inches, and the tenor 32 inches ia diameter. In tho churchwardens' accoimt for 1707 I find— Aug* 12. Paid Newman y« Bell founder for Casting j-* New bell new mettall and brasses .. .. .. .. .. .. 09 18 00 CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 183 Norwich, S, Peter Mancroft — 12. Tenor C, 41 cwt. 1 to 11. Pack and Chapman of London fecit 1775. In addition — 1. To the Common Council who gave 50 guineas this bell is inscrib'd. 2. fe*. Peter Mancroft Eich'' Forster Tho' Cole Church Wardens 1775. 3. The Eev"^ Jn" Peele The EeV^ Tho' Nichols Ministers. 4. Eoger Kerrison Esq' Sheriff and an Alderman of this Ward. 5. Charles Weston Esq' Alderman of this Ward. 6. Tho' Starling Esq' Alderman of this Ward. 7. S' Tho' Churchman K' Alderman of this Ward. 8. John Lord Hobart son and heir apparent of John Earl of Buck". 9. Wenman Coke Esq' Eepresentative for Norfolk gave 30 guineas. 10. Sir Edward Astley Bar' Eepresentative for Nor- folk gave 30 guineas. 11. S' Harbord Harbord Bar' Eepresentative for Norwich and Alderman gave fifty pounds. 12. To King Queen and Eoyal family this harmonious peal of twelve Bells is dedicated T. Mears of London fecit 1814. There would appear to have been five hells here at least as early as the middle of the 14th century. In 1602 a treble was added. I find that in 1652 there was a saint's bell. In 1672 — 6 the peal was increased to eight. In 1736, as a board in the steeple informs us, " This Eing was made a peal of ten by an addition of two Bells subscrib'd for by Gentlemen in y« Parish." The treble weighed 5c. 3qr. 141b. the second 6c. Oqr 231b., and the tenor was estimated to weigh 23 cwt. The inscriptions on the eight bells are preserved by Mackerell in a MS., now in the British Museum (Add. MS. 9370.) 1. Edmund Tooke A° D'ni 1675. 2. E. T. made me A" D'ni 1676. 3. Anno Domini 1602. 4. No3 3ri)omc mrritis mcrcamur gauUta htcis. 5. ^Dctrus alJ Ctcvnc iJucat nos pascua bite. 6. AVE MARIA GRATIA PLENA DOMINUS TECUM [in older letters.] 7. 5um IRosa pulsata muntii f^aria faocata. 8. Ego sum campana ffiuliclmi Cllgs baronis tit cidjtqurr que fracta rtfccta rst 1618. [He was baron of the E.xchequer 27th Hen. VIII. 1535.] From a MS. of Kirkpatrick, I learn that the treble of this peal of eight was 32 inches in diameter, the tenor 53 inches. The expenses of the various bells are preserved in the churchwardens' accounts. 1602-3. " Item paid vnto Willm Brand Bcllfounder the x.xj of Aprill 1603 for the making of a new bell now hanging in a frame in the steple as appeareth by his bill . . . . . . , . x-vnij''." 93 8 6 3 10 184 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE The " payments" of the Churchwardens for the year 1618 ai-e lost. In 1619 there is a memorandum that £22. Is. lid. remained in the hands of "Alexander "Anguish towards the payment of the bell." In the account book of the Revenues of the houses given by Sir Peter Rede to this parish under the year 1620, are the following items : — " P"! William Brand for Areages Left by M"" Anguish And M"' Hemsey as Apeir by ther Accounts flfor the Casting of the gi-eat Bell . . vj" P"* Thomas Skott for the Grreat Bell Clapper making newe this yere (The Iron being all geven by M"" Alexander Angwishe Allderman) p"^ I sale . . . . . . . . . . . . xxxiii^ iiij'' 1666-7. Paid Brand for boring the greate bell when the Cannons brake . , 2 1672-3. Received upon the Reparation Rate and for the two new bells ReC^ of S"' John Hobart as a Gift towards the 2 new bells . . Rec"i of Mr. John Melchior as a gift towards the bells Payd Edward Tooke for the MettaU of two new bells weighing 9<= 2v 25iat 12dp«is .. .. .. .. .. . . 54 9 Payd Edward Tooke for 4 brasses for the bells and mending the brasses for the ould second .. .. .. .. 1134" £39. was paid for chimes and quarters to Thomas Doo. " 1« April 1678 'tis then ordered that out of the ffine that shall arise by a new Lease to be made of the houses in St. Laurence ]\Ii". Edward Tooke shall haue some p' of the moneys due to him from the parish pd to M'' Tooke by M' Warren & M-^ Oliver in p'* ..1000 xxj° Die April 1679. Then ordered & agreed that out of the fine to the parish vpon a new Lease of St. Laurence houses The Churchwardens shaU pay to M'' Tooke the residue of his money being . . . . . . xx'' ij^ 4'' 1679. Paide M' Richard Johnson Merchant Executor to M"' Tooke beinge by order of the parish & was for money for Repayer of the Bells . . . . . . . . . . . • 20 January 3pt 1775. At a Vestry held this Day, Pursuant to Notice given on Sunday last for the meeting of the Parishioners, it appeared from the Subscription Book kept by the Church Wardens that the sum of Five hundi-ed and thirty Pounds and upwards, has been already subscribed towards the expence of puixhasing a compleat Peal of Twelve Bells for this parish, the whole amount of which, the Tenor to be Thirty-eight Himdred weight, (and in the key of C. Natm-al) will be according to Mess" Chapman and Pack's Calculation, including M^ Samuel Turner the Bellhangers Charges, and all other Expences Seven Hundred Pounds, exclusive of the old IMaterials. It is therefore agreed, and dii-ected by the Parishioners now present, that the Church Wardens do immediately give an order to Mess''^ Pack & Chapman accordingly ; they the said Pack & Chapman, together with Samuel Turner the Bellhanger, first entering into a Bond with the Church Wardens, to fulfil their Engagements in a workmanlike manner. 1775. Paid freight of 7 old BeUs to London 3*°" 16'^ at 10^ 1? Ton .. . . 1 18 Wednesday June 21^^ 1775 was perform'd in the Church, a grand Te Deimi and Jubilate, with the Chorus from the ilessiah, and the Coronation Anthem, by a Band consisting of about thirty Gentlemen, accompanied with the Voices of the Cathedral Choir, to a genteel and niunerous Audience : after this Music CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. I8i the Peal of Twelve Bells was opened by the Eingers of the Steeple which for sweetness of tone, and Melody in Concert has answer' d the Expectati(jn of the warmest Promoters of the Subscription and given the highest Delight and Entertainment to all Judges and Admirers of Ringing and other ilusical Execution. It was at first apprehended that the Note of the Tenor was not deep enough to cover the Peal with Dignity, but her majestic and complacence giving Sound soon proclaimed her Supremacy and the execution of the whole has reflected Honour on the Founders and on the Gentlemen who tuned these harmonious and Silver ton^ued Bells. Tenor, weight Eleventh Bell Tenth Ninth Eighth Seventh lb. 4 2 6 27 18 Diani.* 62 in. 55 in. 50 in. 48 in. 43 in. 40 in. Sixth, weight ffifth ffourth Thii-d Second Treble c. qr. lb. 9 3 19 9 5 7 3 8 6 3 20 Weight of y-^ Peal 183 2 24 at £6 per Cwt 12 Clappers' 3 3 6 at 9'i I? lb. To Wharfage Lauding, &c. of the old Bells To do. do. of the new To Sam' Turner for new Oak Frame, Gudgeons, Screws, Hanginf: the Bells, ice., &c., as by agreement £. s. 1102 5 15 19 3 4 13 Diam. 37 in. 35 in. 33 in. 31 in. 30 in. 30 in. s. d. 113 1238 19 21 This sum was raised without any rate upon the Parishioners." Notwithstanding this statement, I find in the chui-chwardens' account for 1775-6, expenses were incurred by them about the bells to the amoimt of nearly £90. It will have been noticed that only seven of the ten bells were sent to London. Two were sold to the town of Bungay, as appears from the following extract from a vestry book of that to^-n. " 1775 Mar 10. Ordered that the 6th & 8th bells of St. Peter Mancroft Norwich be pui'chased forthwith & himg in the Steeple of the Parish Church of the said Parish at twelve pence per pound, in the place of the 5"i & 7"> old beUs now hanging in the Steeple of St Mary Bimgay, and that they be sold at lO'' p pound towards paying for the pm-chase of the s*! two beUs from St. Peter's IMancroft, k that the hanging & all other expenses be paid for the same, and that the cost of the BeUs k all charges and expenses thereon and hanging the same be raised by Eate except so much thereof as can be raised by subscription, or otherwise paid by the Town Eeeve for the time being." The Bungay St. Mary Peal was recast in 1820, when the 5«h & 7ti> Bells were found to weigh respectively 7cwt. 2qrs. 24lbs. and 13cwt. 2qrs. lib. The 5th was described by William Adams the Parish Clerk as a very old bell and the 7th as a fine old bell. The inscription on the old tenor, I have reason to believe, was very similar to that on the present bell, except that it read, " To king, queen, and ten children," &c. The Princess Mary was not born until the 25th April, 1776. This bell was split in 1814, as appears from a paragraph in The Xorwich Mercunj of 16th July. "On Wednesday evening, when the bells were ceasing, the noWe tenor of St. Peter's was broken. Of coiu'se it is difficult to assign a reason * I have added these measm-ements, kindly given me by 3Ir. James Youngs, one of the St. Peter's Company of Eingers. X 186 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE for the sudden injury of the bell after so many years. We Iniow not how far the misfortune, and a real one it is to the lovers of campanology, can he repaired, so nice an operation is the casting of bells. We take this oppor- tunity to mention a curious fact connected with this subject. Everj-body almost has perceived that the ringing at St. Peter's produces a sensation of melancholy, which is accounted for by the tuning of the peal. ]Mr. Garland, the late organist, under whose direction they were finished, gave them the temperament of the key of E flat as it stands on a fixed instrument, which is known to impart a peculiar degree of melancholy to whatever is set in that key." Peter Eeade gave his houses in S. Laurence's parish, to the end that the great bell in the parish of S. Peter Mancroft should for ever be rung at four o'clock a.m. and eight o'clock p.m., for the help and benefit of travellers. These houses, which are next Fisher's Lane, came into the hands of the parish in 1569, and an account book was specially set apart for them. A nnemorandum on the fly leaf says that the houses were given "for the Ringing of the Bow Bell called the 4 clock and 8 clock bell." In the parish register I find among the duties of the sexton, " Item he shall " ringe coui-9"ye bell every night for the space of half e an oure at the least " from crouchemes and Lames at IX of the clock and all the yeare after at " eayght of the clock." Now the eight o'clock bell is not rung on either Saturday or Sunday night. NoEWiCH, S. Peter Permoimtergate — 5. Tenor A. L Thomas Newman made me 1728. 2. Edward Tooke made me 1671. [On waist.] I.S . H . B . CW . 3. Et'c'us BrasDcr jjrEcit ffiic. On crown, three shields: Brasyer diapered, p. 10 ; cross, p. 26. Letters as on Kettei-ingham 4th bell, p. 27. 4. + Ftrrjmis lErjrcgic Vocax n Campna fHari'c. On crown, throe shields : Brasyer diapered, p. 10 ; cross, No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. 5. Tlio Newman made me Edward King & Isaac Butler CW. 1728. In the 6th Edward YI. there were five bells in the steeple, whereof one was called the Gabrielle bell. Norwich, S. Peter Southgate — 3. Tenor D. 1. Crisp Brown Esq'' Alderman Henry Piclies Churchwardens. T Mears of London Fecit 1821. 2. No inscription. 3. N. Clarke P. Paine church wardens lohn Brend made mee 1651. Norwich, S. Saviour — 1 and a clock bell. 1. No inscription. Clock bell. 1735. On a fly-leaf of the churchwardens' book it appears that on the 28 March, 1721, two bells, weighing respectively 10 cwt. 2 qrs. 6 lbs. and 7 c-wt. 1 qr., were sold at £4. 14s. per cwt., realising £83. 8s. The faculty for their sale is dated 25th February, 1720-1. It sets forth that the parishioners expected to CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 187 realize only about £20 from a brief which had been cii-culated on their behalf through the diocese, that they had exi^ended £130 in building an arch between the church and chancel, and that as soon as the season permitted, they would be obliged to take down and rebuild the south wall of the church and further repair and secure the steeple, at an expense of £250, which, as they were then paying a poor's rate of nearly eight shillings in the pound, they were unable to raise. The tower, although within a few years past great sums of money had been expended on it, was even then so weak that it was impossible to use the bells with safety. In the chm-chwardens' account-book I find — 1735, July 11. P!= C >:< W >!= 1717 * * * M' =^ I ^^ S * 2. '^nna ©0mmi 1611. AB On crown, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -^y 3. Eichard Webb and John Wake Churchwardens W"" Dobson Founder 1828. 4. + - DVS OaLI FAO BAKBAEA ORIMINA DaLI. [See p. 80.] On crown, three sliields, engraved at p. 81. 5. + lohn + Goldsmith + Made + Me + S' Margaret + M' I + S + M' E + F M' E + H + C + W + 1708. 6. Thomas Newman made me M'' lohn Simpson and M' Thomas Horn C. W. 1739. In 6th Edward VI. there were four bells, of 6, 9, 12, and 13 cwts. The bell assigned to the parish use by the Commissioners, was that " wheruppon the clokk smyts." Blomefield says the 5th bell was inscribed Saucta Itlatta ora pro nobis. The Inventory of 1735 says the bells weigh about two tons and a half. QuAELES, Church demolished. QuiDENHAM, S. Andrew — 3. 1. + MISSUS DE CELTS HABEO NOMEN GABRIELIS. [See p. 80.] 2. + VIEGO COEONATA DUC NOS AD EEGNA BEATA. [See p. 80.] 194 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE 3. lohn cm Darbie en made i=i me c=i 1677 i=i In 1494 William Erie of Quidenham gave ty his -will r2d. to the melting and repairing the great bell. In 6th Edward VI. there were three bells, 4, 6, and 8 cvrts. Eackheath MAG^-A, All Saints — 3, 1. anno Imi 1613 W. I. B. 2. Anno Domini 1603 ^y 3. anno tmi 1613. On crowTi, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and ^j- Two bells 6th Edward VI., weighing respectively five score and four score pounds. Eackheath Paeva, The Holy Trinity. No church. Eainhaii East, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. lohn Darbie made me 1670. Thomas Wilkinson C.W. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Charles Lord Viscount Townshend, patron of this church, being in 1734 piously inclined to have it made decent, offered the smn of £100 as an encouragement to the inhabitants to undertake the work. The estimated expence of repairing the pavement, seats, &c., and whiting the church was £200. The parishioners had therefore £100 to raise, to assist them in which they craved leave of the Bishop to sell the three smallest of their four bells. The Bishop, taking into "mature consideration the generosity of the s<* Lord Townshend to the Church, and well esteeming of such laudable actions and being very desirous to encourage kind benefactions to the church as that the same may be well and sufficiently reiDaired, adorned, and made fit as is becoming places set apart for the public worship of Almighty God (which are now a days too apt to be neglected) and also as much as we can to save the inhabitants of some part of the charge," granted the required permission. Eainham: South, S. Martin — 1. Charles Newman made mee 1696. P. Neal T. Edge C. W. Three bells 6th Edward VI., o, 6, and 8 cwt. There is the following memoran- dum on the inventor^- : "It the Iren werke of the same bells was taken away by Edward Eston, gent." In 1810, the church being much out of repair, a faculty was granted for the sale of, i>ite>- alia, two cracked bells weighing about 9 cwt., and worth about £30. Eadtham West, St. Margaret. Church dilapidated. In 1733, the steeple being much out of repair, a faculty was granted for the sale of the two smallest of the three bells. Eaitwoeth, S. Helen — 5. 1. Eliza ^[oldich Filia ac Hseres Hen : Hol : Armgri et Dna hui Maneri 1616 '■•• W. [By WiUiam Brend] . On the waist are these arms : on a chevi-on 2 magpies for Holdich. * Elizabeth Holdich was the only daughter of Henrj' Holdich of Eanworth and Didlington, by Susan his wife, daughter of — Denny, Esq. She was baptized 6th March, 1602-3. — Ramcorth Register. She married Sir John Sedley of Kent, Baronet, vide Record of the Souse of Gournay, p. 453. Blomefield xi., p. 113, says she married Sir Isaac Sedlev. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 195 2. Anno Domini 1615 W. B. [William Brend]. 3. lohn Darbie made me 1670. 4. + Bona lacpentie ^ia C] Eop i^agtialcua fHari'a. On crown, thi-ee shields : Brasyer diapered, p. 10 ; cross No. 2, p. 32; stop, p. 33. _ A JJ 5. ©tnnis Sont's 3EauM Qommum anno tinf 1616. W Three hells 6th Edward YI., 9 cwt., 11 c^\^;., and 13 cw-t. EAVEIflNGHAJM, S. Andl'GW 3. 1. + : : TUTRIX : ESTO : PIA : M : SEPER : VGO : LUCIA : [See p. 80]. 2. Edw : Tooke made me 1676. 3. 91 una Samtm 1617. AB On croMTi, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -.y Three bells 6th Edward VI. Eedexhall, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary — 8. Tenor E. 1. Richard Phelps of London made me 1736. 2. These two least bells were bought by the gifts of sundry benefactors obtained and collected by M' John Sawer 1737 R. P. fecit. 3. John Stephens Bellfounder of Norwich 1717. 4. R. Phelps T. Lester Londini fecit 1738. 5. R. Phelps Londini fecit 1737. 6. U mil salamm nobis tict Ijeus □ tjiamas □ tirapcr □ me \:J fecit 1588. D.I. On crown, three shields : engraved at p. 44. The stop is the fleur- de-lis engraved at p. 43. 7. lohn Di'aper made me 1621 lU [and Draper's mark engraved at p. 46.] 8. + Stella : iHari'a : fHari's : Snrcurre : ^fissi'ma : i^obi's. On crown, three shields : Bell and cross keys, p. 62. Thomas Bayly of Harleston, by will dated 1514, gave 6s. 8d. "to the church of Eednale to the yotjTig of the gret belle." In the 6th Edward YI. there were five bells, the respective weights of which are given as 10, 12, 16, 19, and 24 cwts. The inscription on the foui-th bell is given by Blomefield : ^ctrus ati dBttxm iJucat nos ^asaia Uitr. The history of the peal is well preserved in the parish account books from which the following extracts are taken : — Sixth Bell. 1588. 12 Jany. Eeceyved of y towne of Redde'hall towardes y« charges of new yotyng y« bell v" iiijs as aperith by there byll of accomptes & receypts. Payments. Jt payde for new castyg y'' mettall . . . . . , iiij'^ x' Jt payde for xlv'' of newe mettall for y« bell at v^ ye " . . , . xviij^ Jt payde our charg.^s in carryg y^ bell & for y maky'g of A obligatyon v* 196 IXSClllPTIONS ON THE Jt payde for y newe casty'g of ij brasseys for one of y« other belles 6c for j'' k half of newe brasse for y same . . . . v" Jt payde to gorbolde of ffresygfylde for stockyg of y^ beU & hagjTige of J" sayde bell in y steejiell . . Jt payde for jrons to flbrelocke y sayde belles . . . . vj<* Jt payde for half a horse skyne for bawdry cks of y« belles . . iy Jt payde y^ knacker for maky-g y bawdi-ycks . . . . viij'i Jt payde for y carrjTig y« bell to Thetforth & fro these home agajTie to Harleston . . . . . . . . . . xiiij' Jtm payde for Jros for y greate beU to Thorns Warde . . . . viij» Jtm payde for y puttyng of y^ sayde Jros vpo y" sayde bell & for nayles for y^ same . . . . . . . . v^ Jt payde for beere when we tooke down y bell . . iiij'^ Seventh Bell. The conditions for the newe castinge of the fourth Bell Junij 18, 1621. 1. To make it of good tune and sweet sounde. 2. To finde all mettaU that shall bee needfull to supply the waste. 3. To allowe for surplussage of mettall (yf anie shallbee) after ix^ the pound weight, and the towne to mak the lyke allowance, }-f anie shall bee wanting. 4. The fownder must be present at the hanging of the bell, and give directions for the same. 5. To wan-ant the bell for breaking or cracking for the space of one yeare. 6. The fownder is to have 8'' for the casting &c of the bell whereof hee hath received in part of payments ij= by Me John Draper J) me Timothy Damatt Will'm W Stubbes his m'ke Kobarde t" Tebnonn his I marke The sayd forth bell when she was taken downe to be carried to yotinge xs" Julij 1621 weighed at fye skore & twelve to the hundred 1666''. Comynge out of the furnace xvij hundred three quarters & six pounds. At the second comynge of the furnace she waye xvj hundred k six pounds. 1621. The accompt of Tymothy Damatt k AYill'm Stubbs Church wardens of Redenhall & Harleston for the year 1621 for the new makeing of the fourth bell. In jniis paid to Carpenters & other helpers at the takeing downe of the BeU Jte for carrying the Bell twise to Thetford Jte Charges t-w-ise at Thetford for men & horse Jte paid to the Bell founder Jte paid for Carpenters work towards hanging the bell for the stocke & mending the wheel Jte paid for workemens Dyett Jte paid for fetching & carrying of Tryces «S: the sleight of a Cart rope Jte paid two messingers for going to Thetford Jte paid at seuerall tymes for bread & beere at the takeing downe & hanging the bell for helpers Jte paid the smj-the for iron worke Jte paid John Barker for drawing the Articles Sm is . 3 6 2 1 15 6 . 13 e 1 7 . 3 2 e 9 . 4 1 2 4 19 8 1 . 21 10 2 CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 197 Tenor Bell. 1677. Paid INP Gilpin for work about the great bell . . . . 15 1722. For work done about the Great bell when it fell down &-c. . . • 1 2 6 1723. For mending y<^' Tenner when it fell do-wTi for ringing for the dead 18 6 Third Bell. In 1717 a subscription was made by the Parishioners for a new treble, now the third bell, the cost of which is thus entered in the Churchwarden's Books : — The Disbui'sements for y^ New Bell and y" Contingent charges there to relating. Payd M'- Jn° Stephens Bell foimder .. .. . . 39 17 6 The weight of y« Bell is as undr 6'^"'- 2' Reader for two pices of Timber and making Redy y« frame in wch it hang Payd 31'' Harp for a new Rop for y same Payd Francis Longe for y<^ Caridg of y Bell from Norwich Totall Expences w* 6 Jornys to Norwich and upon workmean and by way of help in giting it up . . Fifth Bell. In 1718 the following charges ajopear : — Paid to M'' Jn" Stephens Bell-founder for Casting or Rooning the Thii-d Bell being split which Weighed 9<; 3> the necessary expence of additional metal for the fifth and all other Contingent Charges as appear hy the seperate Bills in the Town Chest. c qr li TheTreehle .. .. ., 6 2 17 The Second . . . . ..6010 Two new Clappers 42' The Fifth .. Old Bell sent up @ 9( @ 9^ For casting the Fifth Bell To carting &c at London To Hen Spendlove for 2 p"" new Brasses 12'^ y^ @ 12'^ To John Ecdgriffe for Timber and Work as ,p hill To Tho Seaman for two new Wheeles &:c as ,p bill To Will Fairhead for Iron work as ^p his bill To John Tui-ner for 4 New Gudgins &c as ,p bill To John Dowsing for ship freight To Sam^ AVright for Land Cariage To John Lord for 2 new Kopes 2 at £6 p C. 5 3 1 2 8i 7 6 12 6 8 .5 9 1 5 11 4 1 9 lo 2 10 6 5 9 102 u For the following tabular statement, relative to this celebrated peal, I am indebted to Captain A. P. Moore, of Weybread House. Diameter Heif fht in inches. No. in to top of \v eight. Observations. inches. to crown inside. c. qr. lb. 1 30-3 23-5 33-25 24-8 6 2 17 Has been much chipped to sharpen it, and has lost much of its power, but is still a veiy fine bell, although too sharp for the tenor. 2 30-7 23-5 34 24-8 6 10 A weak but good bell. 3 32-9 24-75 34 24-7 6 2 8 Another weak but good bell. 4 35-25 26 36 26-5 c. 7 2 Another v^-eak bell of good tone. 5 38-6 29 40 29 10 1 25 A fine strong bell, the noisy one of the peal. 6 41 31 44 30-7 cl3 The finest bell of the peal. 7 44-9 32 45 32 10 6 A good bell, but not so good or powerful as 5, 6, or 8, being too short and small in the barrel. 8 .50-5 37-5 56 37 r;24 A very fine bell : has been much chipped inside to flatten it, as well as on the verge to sharpen it. It has probably lost half an inch in diameter by this latter process. Eeedham, S. John Baptist — 5. Tenor 8 cwt. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. T. Mears of London fecit 1825. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 199 [On waist of 5.] Robert Browne, Churdiwarden, Lncy Ann Browne, his wife, Lucy Ann Browne, their daughter. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 8, 11, and 13 cwts. Eeepham, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1 and a priest's belL MATl D QUI D HABITAT D IN D DOMO TYA D DOMINII H stops, a fleur-de-lis and Tonni's mark: a crown, pierced with two arrows in saltire, engraved p. 12. On waist, 1359 and a casting of the Crucifixion, with O DE BVRI SANTE EDMONDE STEEANVS TONNI ME LECET O The stops of this inscription arc impressions from the seal of the subsidy of cloths of the Coimty of Suffolk. The seal for Essex is engraved in the plate of Dunwich Seals in vSuckling's Suffolk, p. 292. Priest's bell, 1811. Eepps cum Bastwick, S. Peter — 3. 1. ^Ilnno Bomini 1609. 2. anno ©ammi 1611. 3. anno ©ommi 1607 W. AB On crown of 2 are three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -^ All three heUs are hy William Brend. Two bells, 8 and 4 cwt., 6th Edward YI. Eepps North, Blessed Virgin Mary — 5. 1, 2, 4. No inscriptions. 3. lohn Brend made me 1636. 5. Per Mt iFitidcs Ilnb0ratur Sli ^nccs anna Qommt 1626. AB On crown, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -.^r Three bells of 1-5,9, and 6 cwt. in the 6th Edward VI., and two clappers. Eepps South, S. James — 5. 1, 2, 3. lohn Brend made me 1641. 4. + IHESVS : NAZAEENVS : EEX : IVDEOEVM : MISE- EEEE : MEI. [See p. 83.] 5. TUBA AD lUDITIAM CAMPANA AD ECLESIAM LB. 1641. [By John Brend.] Three bells of 10, 12, and 16 cwt., valued at £28. 10s., a sainte bell at 2s. 6d., and two bell clappers at 8s., in the 6th Edward VI. The fourth bell came from Thorpe Market, and is said to weigh 14 cwt. Eeymerstoist:, S. Peter — 5. 1,2, 3. Joseph Mallows fecit 1754. 4. anna Somm 1626. 5. -t- Sulcis Sfsta fHdfs n Campa Focar iJHicj^is, On crown, three large shields : Brasyer ermine, p. 31. Four bells 6th Edward \1., 5, 6, 7, and 8 cwt. 200 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE EiDDLESWoiiTH, S. Petcr — 1. + DIAKA LADY DRVRY * ^lOHX GOLDSMITH FECIT 1716. [See p. 60.] Thi-ee bells 6th Edward VI., 3, 4, and 5 cwt. EiDLiXGTOX, S. Peter — 1. Anno Domini 1608. AV.B. [William Brend.] Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1792 a faculty was granted Thomas Colk, churchwarden, to sell two useless bells, computed to weigh about 14 cwt., and to be worth £4.3. The repairs of the church amounted on a moderate computation to £95. The petition for the faculty sets forth that £40 had been ali-cady expended about the church, and that great part of the lands of the said parish were not liable to be rated towards the repairs of the said church, being rated towards the repaii's of the parish church of AValcot. EiNGLAXD, S. Peter — 5. 1 . Sam' Wright Chureli Warden T. Osborn fecit 1793. 2. Tho Gardiner + Norwich + Fecit + + 1 752 + ■6. Tho Leggett + W" IMouse + C. W^+1752 + + 4. No inscription. 5. + iHissus Uct0 l^fc ©akt'd iFert 5Lrta □ iHaric. The cross and stop are engraved at p. 26. This is probably one of Baxter's bells. Four beUs 6th Edward VI., 5, 6, 9, and 12 cwts. A saint's bell had been, I was informed, taken to the -^-illage school-house. EiNGSTEAD Geeat, S. Andrew — 1. Edw : Tooke made me 1676. Christiana Powle by her will, dated 1481, gave three pence to the hallowing of the bells of this church. In 6th Edward VI. there were three bells. Uingstead Great, S. Peter. In ruins. One bell of U cwt. 6th Edward VI. In 1792 the Bishop authorized the demolition of the church of Ringstead S. Peter, the materials of which were worth about £15 ; also the sale of two of the three bells at S. Andi-ew's chxirch, which were cracked, and, with the one bell at S. Peter's, weighed about 11 cwt., and were worth about £40. Pes'gstead Little or Barret. " Has been dilapidated many years." — Blomefield, vol. x., p. 348. EisiKG Castle, S. Laurence — 1. Thomas Norris made me 1660 I.H. E.S. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Bloniefield (vol. ix., p. 57) says there were three bells, but one was split. * Diana, daughter of George Vilet of Pinkeney Hall, was third wife of Sir Robert Drur>-, Bart., who died 7 April, 1712, s.j). Blomefield, vol. i., p. 278, 8vo. ed. n O o IZi n S Q D O CHURCH BELLS OF XORFOLK. 20 1 EisiNG "Wood, S. Nicholas — 1. G. Hears Founder London 1861. There were two bells in the steeple 6th Edward VI., of 3 and 4 cwt. The tower is in ruins. This bell hangs in a shed in the churchyard. There are beds for two bells which were inscribed — 1. C & G Hears fee* 1848. _ 2. -|- THOMAS. DE LENNE ME FECIT IHC : XAZAEEXUS : REX : lUDEORUM. See the etching opposite. The bell recast in 1848 was, I am infonned, inscribed in the same characters. EiSTON West, S. Michael — 1. Percute Dulce Cano T. Osborn Fecit 1789. Two bells of 6i and oi cwt. 6th Edward VI. It appears from the Visitation Book for 1677 that the churchwardens were cited to certify, intei- alia, that they had new run the split bell. William Bamwell appeared and answered " that about two years since the towne had an order from M"' Roberts and M'' Tenison to sell the Bell and repayre the church." Blomefield, vol. vii., p. 393, says "the upper part of the tower lies open, and is broke down to the roof of the church." EocKLAND, S. Margaret. In ruins. EocKLAND, S. Mary — 3. 1. Isaac Smith C. W. 1706. 2. Thomas Newman made mee 1706. 3. 1599. Three bells 6th Edward VI. 1, 2|, and 3i cwts. EocKLAND Tofts, All Saints — 2. 1. tfjomas . tirapct . mefccit . 1586 . stop, the fleur-de-lis engraved at p. 43. 2. + ISTA : CAMPANA : FACTA : ESTIN OKORE OMNIVM : SANCTORVM. [See p. 85.] These were the treble and tenor of a peal of three : the second is now the fifth beU at S. Michael Coslany, Norwich. Three bells 6th Edward VI. The inventory adds — " Itm ij clajjpers rcmayningo in the handes of M'' Eafe Chaberh-ne syns the rebellyon valcwed at xx'i." EocKXAND ToFTs, S. Andrew. In the 6th Edward VI. there were two bells of 7 and 4 cwts. Blomefield says that this church falUng into decay, and being near All Saints' Church, was suffered to dilapidate ; ho adds, " the tower is square and is still standing : its three bells being stolen out of it some years since, were never heard of." — Vol. i., p. 473, 8vo ed. EocKLAND ToFTS, S. Peter — 1. + .Sancta . iilarta . ©ra . On crown, three shields : Bell and cross keys, p. 62. Three bells of 5, 6, and 7 cwt. in 6th Edward VI. Blomefield says " the tower is octangular, and hath three bells in it." Y 202 IXSCRIPTIOXS ON 'HIE EoLLESBY, )S. George —3. 1. + P?fc J^it ^corum □ Canipa 5Lauti£ Bonorum. 2. + hi fHultis Sniu's □ Ecsoiut Cnmpa Solji's. On crowns of 1, 2, three small shields: Brasyer, p. 31. 3. lohn Brend made me 1655. Three bells, 6, 7, and 9 cwts. 6th Edward VI. EouGHAM, Blessed Yirgin Mary — 1. lOHN DEAPER MADE ME 1618. Three bells 6th Edward YI. In 1760 there were two bells, one weighing about 8 cwt., and the other about 6 cwt. This had been spUt from time immemorial, and was sold by faculty. Blomefield giyes the inscription, Missies de Calls haheo noDicn GahricUs. EorGnTON, Blessed Virgin. Mary — 3. 1. Anno 1612. 2. Tliomas Newman made me 1715. 3. Anno Dini 1612. Two beUs 6th Edward YI., 5 and 7 cwt. EoAYDHAM, S. Andrew — 1. H- WILELMVS ; EEYEL \ ME : FECIT. [See p. 54.] In 1714 the parishioners had leave to sell one of their two bells which had been riven for many years. The money arising fi-om the sale was to be api>lied " towards the Eeeding and beautifying the said Church and steeple which were then in great decay." Blomefield, writings. 1737, says "About two or three years since as the workmen were repairing the lead on the top of the tower, one of them blew the ashes carelessly out of his pipe, which fell on the thatch, and not being seen in time, burned the church and chancel, so that the walls only are standing, in a ruinous condition, at this time." In 18o0 the church was still in ruins, and the bell stood in a neighbouiing farm yard. Eoxn^ui. No church. EoYDON is^EAE Diss, S. Eemigius — 3. 1, 2, 3. C & G. Mears founders London 1850. 1. Temple Frere Eeetor W" Anness Henry Eackland Church Wardens. [Diameter 31 A inches, w* 6^ 3"J 6'*".] 2. Geo Edward Frere. [Diameter 33| inches, w* 7' Qi 22'^'^] 3. Bartholomew Frere. [Note G, diameter 36 inches, w* 9"= O^ 2"^'.] Three bells 6th Edward YL, 6, 6, and 8| cwt., and a Saunce bell of 1 cwt. Blomefield says that the steeple was in a very ruinous condition, and had formerly four bells ; but being vmable to bear them, the parishioners obtained a faculty in 1689 and sold thi'ee of them. On the bell which was left he read, Tetrus ct^l JEterna ducat nos Tuscua Vile. EoYDON NEAR Ltnn, All Saints — 1. Tohye Norris cast me 1679. T. Drinkemilke I. Blomfeild C. W. RuDiiAM East, Blessed Yirgin Mary — 3. Tenor 7 cwt. 1. William Dobson founder 1820. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 203 2. William Dobson Downham Norfolk fecit 1820. 3. Richard Dewing Esq'' Church warden 1820. But one bell 6th Echvard VI. EuDHAM West, S. Peter — 3. 1. + ©ulcis Sisto JHcIi's n (Campa Uocor iHidjis. On crown, thi-ee shields: Brasycr ermine, p. 31. Initial cross engraved at p. 26. 2. □ tl)ama0 □ Draper . 1590 . . . [Not hung.] 3. I. Stephens : fecit : 1720. John Davy William Greenwood Churchwardens. Three bells 6th Edward VI. EuNOTON North, All Saints — 3. 1. Exurgat Deus & dissidentur inimici. Tho. Newman Fecit 1720. 2. Edmund Eudd Eector Tlio Saddleton and Tho Watson C. W. Tho : Newman Fecit 1720. 3. Dum cano busta mori dun pulpita vivere dice 1720 . Tho Newman fecit. But one bell 6th Edward VI. "In 1701, on August 1.5, the old church was destroyed by the fall of the tower upon it, and about 1710, rebuilt." — See Blomelield, ix. p. 65. RuNCTON South, S. Andrew— 1. C & Gr. Mears founders London 1845. EuNHALL, All Saints — 1. + jFac iHarrjnrrta □ No&fs fjec fHuncra TlEla. On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31 ; cross engraved at p. 26. In 1776 a faculty was granted for the sale of the smallest and largest of three bells, weighing about 12 cwi;, and worth about £42. According to Blomefield the above was the smallest of the three bells. EuNHAM, SS. Peter and Paul — 3. 1. . Eobert Liffin . Thomas Cory . Churchwardens . I.S . 1726. 2. I . B Anno Domini 1579. 3. I . B Anno Domini 1580. 1 by John Stephens. 2, 3 by John Brend, sen. "When Mr. A. W. Morant copied these inscriptions in 18oo, 2 was sjilit, and was recast in the same year by Messrs. Warner of London. It was proposed to place on it these verses — Me factam vidit belli memorabilis annus Det Deus ut resonem mox santte pacis honorcm — But, as the founders required, if the verses were cast on the bell, that it should bo taken by the paiishioners whether in tune or not, the idea was abandoned. EuNTOx, Holy Trinity vcl Blessed Virgin Mary — 1 . Tho : Newman made mee 1715. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 5, 6, and 8 cwt., and two clappers. In 1819 there were five bells entirely useless : a faculty was granted for their sale, and for the sale of tho lead of the roofs. Y 2 204 IXSCRIPTIOXS OS THE ErsHALL, Blessed Virgin !^^ary — 1. + lolm . Goldsmitli . Fecit . 1712 . I . K . Three beUs 6tli Edward YI. Two bells, \\-ith the lead that covered the church, were lately sold, says Blomefield, towards repairing it. EusHFORD rel EvsnwoRTH, S. John Evangelist — 6. 1. SEaglor null S^an Jotmbcrs S.D. 1855. + (gibrn to Eus|}forli Cfjiirrf) bg lElisa&ct]^ Jlulia Buiton, 2, 3. (JTagtor anti Son iFountcrs. 4. ^Taglar antj S^cn Jountifrs ILobora, 5. STaglor anli S'ou jTounlircs 3Lobro. 6. ^Taglor anti Son iFountiErs ILoutjPoraugl). Each of these five bells has on its waist, Gibcu to lAUsIjEorll Cfjurrf) bp Eltsabctjj 3ulia Burton 3[.D. 1855. "We learn from Blomefield that Jafi'rey Ellingham of Fersfield, by wiU dated 1493, gave 20d., and that William Halyday, in 1492, gave 6s. 8d., towards a new- bell at Rushworth. He tells us, also, that " there is a very good sqiiare tower, ha^"ing only one bell, though there have been five or six, the frames still remaining, ice." EusTON East, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. John Eudd, Sam' Postle Church Wardens A. Postle T. Worts. S. Weeds. J. Barber. J. Eudd. T. Hurry. T. Mears of London fecit 1819. Roger Skinner of East Ruston, who died 9th May, 1534, by his will, dated three days previously, dii-ected to be buried "in the mid ally before the crucyfj'x," where his brass remains, and gave four marks "towards the halowing of y<^ said chiu-ch of Riston." There is also the following bequest : " Itm if the said Township by a Trebill bell according to y« other iij I give therto fine marks of lafull money." The bell was no doubt purchased, as in the 6th Edward "\T!. there were four bells weighing respectively 5, 7, 8, and 10 cwts. In 1771, the parishioners representing to the Bishop that the church was in a very bad state, that the spu-e which was little or no ornament must be taken down, and that they had four beUs, two of which were split, obtained a faculty for the sale of three bells. ErsTOx Sco, S. Michael — 1 . 1777. Three bells 6th Edward YL, 4, 5, and 6 cwts. In 1703, the steeple having then lately fallen, the Bishop made an order for the sale of the least and biggest of three bells, one being cracked. A tirrret was to be erected for the remaining bell; this weighed about 8 cwt., and in 1777, being cracked, was sold by faculty to buy a small bell and erect a cupola. Eybttiigh Gkeat, S. Andrew — I. Joseph Eayre S'. Neots Fecit 1771. One bell 6th Edward YI. of 5 cwt. Eyburgh Little, All Saints. In ruins. Two bells 6th Edward YI. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK, 205 Sahaji Tcney, S. George — 6. Tenor F, 42 inches in diameter. 1. Thomas Mears Founder London 1841. Eev"^ W H Parker Eector gave this bell. 2. -anna Samini 1622. 3. Charles . Newman . made . meo 1697 Charles . Swan . The . Forby. 4. anna tiamini 1614. 5. The Ptev'' David Williams Eector the Eev"" Eob' Eolfe Curate and C'^ Wd" Hugh Boughton the other C Wd" 1812. [By Dobson]. 6. + Per iHe jFiteh's Enbacatur ^ti ^rcrcs ^nno IBamini 1618, The initial cross is engraved at p. 26. AB On crowns of 2, 4, 6, three shields : Norwich citj', Brasyer erm., and -^it- Three bells 6th Edward VI., 12, 14, and 18 cwt. Richard Terry, Rector here from 1604 to 1626, gave a house and land to the parish clerk to ring the eight o'clock bell from Michaelmas to Lad}-. Blomefield says, the house was down, the land let for £3 per annum, " but the bell is forgot to be rung." Saint Faith's. See Horsham S. Faith's, Salhouse, All Saints — 2 and a sacring bell. 1. o Hec campana pertinet ad eclesiam de Salohowse fracta et compacta Ano Dno 1630. [By BrendJ. 2. + ©rate Pro Siabj Jrm ^ Soror [H ®iltic Corpfs Ipi JBe - nt. tn. XI. ©icbur^]^ Slnna ©ni m cccc iiii i [i.e. 1481.] On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31 ; cro^s No. 2, p. 32 ; £top p. 33. Both bells have only half wheels. Sacring bell on rood-screen blank. Two bells 6th Edward VI., 5 and 8 cwt. Sall, SS. Peter and Paul— 6. Tenor E. 1, 2. Thomas Mears of London founder 1836. 3. Charles Newman made mee 1698. 4. + EDMVNDYS : DE LENNE ME FECIT. [See p. 23]. 5. C & G Mears founders London. [Painted on waist] Matthew Austin and Thomas Ireland Churchwardens 1852. 6. + Ecsana Slare Satis (I^uia Foi Uocor ^ic STrmitatis, [Probably by Eiehard Baxter]. Five bells 6th Edward VI., 10, 14, 23, 32, and 41 cwts. The old tenor bell of this peal, weighing 19| cwt., which had been split for many years, was in 1836 taken away and a new treble cast. The tuning renderedt necessary by this change being upskilfully done, it was found necessary to recast the old treble. 206 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Saltiiouse, S. Nicholas — 1. AMO DOMIXI 1599 AKXO ELIZABETIIE 41. [By WilHam Brend]. All the Ns upside down. Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1810 a faculty was gi-anted to dilapidate an ancient vestry on the north side of the church, and to sell one of the two bells hanging in the tower, with part of a bell taken down many years before, supposed to weigh together 18 cwt. 2 qrs. 16 lb., and to be worth £87. Sandringham, S. Mary Magdalen — 1. Cum voce venite •'. [• T. Osborn fecit 1793. Sajstton', S. Helen. A very small bell, not inscribed. [Hx inform. Eev. W. Weller Foley.] Saxlingham by Holt, S. Margaret — 1. Thomas Hurrell and John Margarson Churchwardens 1812. Three bells 6th Edward YI. In 1811 a faculty was granted authorising the sale of three cracked bells supposed to be worth £120. A new bell was to be jpm-chased, and the surplus money was to be applied to the repair of the roof. Saxlingham Nethergate, Blessed Virgin Mary — 6. 1. anno ©omi'ni 1617. 2. anna Somini 1618. 3. lohn Brend made mee 1651. 4 c^urdjlriarticns 1615. 5. Anno Domini 1616 W. [By Wm. Brend]. 6. No inscriiition. AB On cro-wns of 1,2, 4, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer ermine, and -.y Two bells 6th Edward YI. Saxlingham Thorpe, Blessed Virgin Mary. In ruins. Three bells 6th Edward YI. In 1688 it appeared from the petition to the Bishop that the cost of repairing the church would be at least £400, which the parishioners were unable to bear. They had "thi-ee bells remayning Eeliques of a Crazie Body," which the Bishop granted them leave to sell. Of the money arising therefrom two- thirds were to be improved as a stock for the poor, the rest was to be applied towards the repairs of Saxlingham Nethergate, in which church or chancel the parishioners were for the futm-e to sit. Saxthorpe, S. Andi-ew — 1. 1664. Three bells 6th Edward YI. In 1746 there were four bells here, one of which had been cracked for about forty years. A faculty was granted for its sale. Scarning, SS. Peter and Paul — 5 and a sacring bell. 1,2, 3. Charles Newman made me 1697. CHURCH BELLS OF >-OIlFOLK. 207 4. Charles Newman made mee 1697. Benjamin Lane John Wilkins C. "W. .0. diaries Newman made mre 1703. Eobcai't Claik Ham llvdd C. W. Sacring bell blank. Three bells 6th Edward A'l. ScoLE, alias Osmuxdestox, S. Andrew^ — 1. Diameter 28 inches, lohn Brend made me 1655. One bell of 5 cwt Gth Edward YI. Blomefield, writing about 173o, says, "but one bell, though not long since there were five." Sco EusTON. See Eustox Sco. ScoTTOw, All Saints— 5. 1, 2, 3, 4. Tho : Newman made mee 1713. 5. Thomas Dvrrant. Gent -^^ And Eobert Blake Gent C. AY. 1713. [On waist] 1713. Three beUs 6th Edward YI. ScouLTON, Holy Trinity rel All Saints— 3. 1. John Draper made me 1633. 2. John Draper made me 1637. 3. Tho Newman made mee 1715. J.D. G.T.G. W.M. CW. Three bells 6th Edward YI. ScRATBY, rel Scr.owTEBY, All Saints. Church demolished. ScULTHORPE, Blessed Virgin Mary vel All Saints — 3. 1. I.D. LB. 1630. [By John Draper and John Brend.] 2. Edw Tooke made me 1675. 3. John Draper made me 1625. One bell of 13 cwt. 6th Edward YI. Sedgeford, Blessed Virgin Mary — 3. [On each.] J. Warner and Sons Crescent Foundry London 1856. [On waist.] Eoyal arms and patent. Three beUs 6th Edward YI. In 1753 a faculty was granted for the sale of one of the three bells, which had been split beyond the memory of man. It was supposed to weigh about 12 cwt. and, being unhung, to endanger the floor of the steeple. Seething, S. Margaret — 3. 1. Anno Domini 1634. Brasycr's small ermine shield, p. 31. 2. John Smith chvrch warden . John Stejihens Fecit 1721. 3. lohn Brend made mo 1038. * High Sheriff 1715 : oh. 1727, ^Et. su;e 70. £. s. d. 2 6 6 4 2 6 6 10 2 6 2 6 208 INSCKIPTIONS ON THE It will be seen from the following rccciiit that the treble LcU was cast by "William Brend. M^ that I William Brend of the C'itty of Norw"^'' bellfo^^'ndcr haue reciued & had of Eob'te Bogas gen' & E,ob'te Osborne Churchwardings of the Towne & p'ish of Seethinge in the covmty of NorfF the full sume of >Six Sc fiiftye shillings for the Kuning of the Treble Bell beloninge to the Towne aforesaid I sale Hoc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ivj^. W me William Brend. The expenses connected with the recasting of the second bell are here given : — 1721-22. PJ for Carpng of y Bell . . T^ to John Stephens of Norwich for Castii^g of the Bell & 3 pair of Brasses PJ for fetching of y^ Bell . , P** to AVilliam Collings for hanging of the three Bells and two New Stocks p'' to him for a New Beame & other timber over & above the Bargain . . . . . . . . . . . . p'^ to John Cooper for y« Iron Woork Sengham, All Saints. No cliurcli. Setch, vel Setchey Magna — 1. 21 engraved on crown. This is a very small bell. Of the old church no traces remain : the present building, a chapel of ease tq North Euncton, was erected by Daniel Gurney, Esq., in 1844. Setciiy Parva — 1. Chui'ch erected 1863. Shadwell. No church. SiiARKiNGTON, All Saints — 1. Tho : Newman made mee 1715. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Frames for several bells remain in the steeple. Shelfaxger, All Saints — 5. 1, 2, 3, 4. Pack & Chapman of London fecit 1772. 5. tijomas liraprr me fecit 1582. Three bells 6th Edward VL, 6, 8, and 10 cwts. Blomefiold says, " The Eector hath also a close of three acres given to find bell-ropes, called Bell-rope Close." SnELFANGER, S. Andrew, demolished. In 1.518 Matthew Halyett, of Winfarthing, gave a bell to the chapel of S. Andrew. Shelton, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. No inscription. Rectangular cannons. But one bell 6th Edward VI. SiiEREFORD vel SuERiXGFORD, S. Nicholas — L + : AUE : MAEIA : -DRACIA : PLENA. [See plates at p. 80.] On crown, tho shield engraved at p 81. Three beUs 6Lh Edward VL, 3, 4, and 5 cwts. Eoger Davy, Goldsmith, of London, gave by will in 1473 £10 to cover the steeple. Blomcfield, vii., 179. The church being out of repair, a faculty was granted in 1809 for the sale of two bells worth £47. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 209 Shernboe^te, S. Peter — 1. Cum voco venite 1786 • ; [By Thomas Osborn.] In 1786 the parishioners represented to the Bishop that there had heen no steeple within the memory of man, and that there was but one hell which hung in the porch. A faculty was granted for the sale of some old lead and the erection of a cujjola to liang a bell in. Sherringsam Lower — 1. [lu gable.] Eev''. Arthur W. Upcher 1841. The ancient free chapel here was dedicated to S. Nicholas. It ajopears from Tanner's MS. that in 1715 the walls were standing, and that a bell, remained in the tower. The present building was erected about 1841. Sherringham Upper, All Saints — 6. Tenor 7 ewt., B flat. TJiomas Mears founder London 1841. [On waist of 5.] Eev''. B. Pulleyno Eev''. A Upcher W. London Guardian T. Lown Surveyor C. Cranfield Chiu-ch Warden E. Sunman Builder. [On waist of 6.] H. E. Upcher Esq'''. Caroline Upcher H. M. Upcher. Three bells Gth Edward VI., 15, 8, and 7 cwts. SniMPLiNG, S. George — 4. 1. + ifac fKarprcta □ Ncibts ?i^cc fHuncra 3L£ta. [Obliterated.] On crown, three shields: Erasyer, p. 31. 2. Inscription obliterated and illegible. On crown, three shields : Erasyer diapered, p. 10. 3. lohn Goldsmith fecit 1 7 1 1 . [Cracked.] 4. lohn Brend made me 1658. Four bells 6th Edward YI. SniXGHAM, S. Botolj)h — 1. Thomas Newman made me 1738. There were two bolls 6th Edward YI. In 1859 there was no tower, and the bell stood on the floor of the church. SniPDEN, otherwise Cromer. SuiPDiiAM, All Saints — 6, a clock bell and a sanctus bell. 1, 2, 3. No inscription. 4, 5. 1616. 6. + hi iiHulttg ^nni3 [H iJxEScnet Sampana 3of)anncs. On crown, throe shields : Erasyer, p. 31. This bell came from East Bradenham in 1833 : it has recently been recast by Messrs. Warner and Sons. Clock bell in cupola. + protege prece : pt'a ^uas rontiocat VixQO maria. [Diameter 17 inches, height 13 inches.] Initial cross engraved at p. 26. It is probably by either Potter or Baxter. Sanctus bell at east end of Nave. No inscription. Diameter 15| inches, height 12 inches. Three bells Gth Edward YI , 10, 12, and 15 cwt. 210 IXSCRirXIONS ON THE SnoTESiiAii, All Saints — 5. 1. Anno Domini 1615. 2. 5. Anno Domini 1622. 3. + CELI BEGIN A MICHI SEMPER SIT MEDECINA [Seo p. 80.] 4. + Jac fHartjareta iflobis □ '^]tc fHunera 3£cta. This bell was probably cast by Ilichard Baxter ; the cross and stop are engraved at p. 26. AB On crowns of 1, 2, 5, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -^ Fom- bells 6th Edward VI., 5, 7, 9, and 12 cwt. Shotesiiam, S. Botolph. Totally demolished. SnoTEsnAivr, S. Martin. Cliurcli ruined. SnoTESiiAM, S. Mary — 1 and a clock bell. 1. Thomas Newman made me 1730 . John Fam . C. "Warden. There are frames for three largo bells : this appears to have been the second bell. Clock Bell. Edw. Tooke made me 1675 [and the arms of Norwich city, Gules, a castle triple-towered argent, in base a lion passant gardant or.] Two bells 6th Edward VI., 6 and 10 cwt., one of them was without a clapper. In 1760 there was an old clock and bell, but there has not been a clock in the tower within the memory of man. SiiouLDHAM, All Saints — 4, Tenor, dia- meter 40 inches. 1. Edmvnd Morris lolm Harplye chvrch wardens I. B. 1052. 2. Lennard Chambers Eoger Erish I. B. 1652. 3. + AYSTEN aRAOXaR MAa MI ANNO aOMINI M On crown, four shields : two charged with a rayed rose, here engraved, and two with England ancient. Initial cross engraved at p. 56. 4. Margaret Dvnham : Peter Gage : lohn Skinner : I. B. 1652. About two years since (1873) this peal was increased to six by Messrs. Warner and Sons. SnouLDHAir, S. Margaret. No church. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 9, 10, and 10 cwt. SnouLDHAM TnoRPE, Blessed Virgin Mary— 2. + (ZCaglor iFounticr IS56. The tower with three bells in it fell down in 1721. ^nRoriiAM, S. Andrew. No chuvch. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 211 SHRornAM, SS. Peter and Paul — 5. 1. 'Huna ©omim 1618. 2. John Thornton Sudbury fecit 1717. 3. 5. 1618. 4. John Thornton Sudbury me fecit 1 7 1 7. On crowns of 1, 3, 5, three shields: Norwich city, Brasyer, ermine, and ,y Two beUs 6th Edward YI., 8 and 12 cwt. SiDESTRAND, S. Michael — 1. C. & Gr. Mears founders London Paul Johnson Eector Dennis Blyth Churchwarden 1848. "Two stcpello helles" 6th Edward VI. of 32 and 23 cwt., but only one clapper. Two bells were sold, I am informed, some years ago, probably in 1848. SiSLAND, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. glnna Domini 1622. AB On cro'ttTi, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer erm., and vy In 1743 the steeple had been demolished from time immemorial, and a cupola erected for one bell. A faculty was granted for the sale of two bells, one being split, worth about £20. Skeyton, All Saints — 1. Anno Domini 1577 I. B. [John Brend, sen.] Thi-ee bells here 6th Edward VI. Blomcfield says there was a square tower and three bells, the least of which was given in 1506 by Peter Howys of Yarmouth. In 1818 two bells worth £58. 2s. 6d. were sold by facility. Sloley, S. Bartholomew — 1. Anno dm 1612. On crown, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and ^y Three bells when Blomefield wrote. Smaxlbttrgh, S. Peter — 1. Elias Brend made me 1660. Two bolls 6th Edward YI. On the 23rd May, 1677, the tower fell, although three or four days before it had been deemed to be in sutficient rcijaii-. The ijetition of Charles le Grosse alias Harman, Esq., one of the patrons of the rectory, of the rector, and the in- habitants, sets forth that the fall of the tower very much shattered the church and left the whole west end thereof open, and that to rebuild the church and make good what it suffered would cost £685. The miserable state of the parish is enlarged upon, and it is mentioned that when about two or three years ago they laid out £50 about the chui-ch they had to mortgage the town lands. They therefore craved leaA-e to sell two of their three bells and the old lead which fell down. The bishop issued his commission to divers persons to view the church and report to him. The report agrees with the facts of the petition. The expense of building the gable is estimated at £135, and the two biggest bells and the lead are supposed to be worth £27. Snareiiill. No church. Snetterley vel Blakeney, S. Nicholas. See Blakeney. 212 IXSCHll'TIOXS ON THE Snettehtox, All Saints — 4. 1, 2, 3, 4. lolm en DarLie czi made en me cd 1G72. Snetterton, S. Andrew, demolished temp. Henry VIII. Snettisham, Blessed Virgin Mary — G. All. Thomas Newman made meo 1710. Four 136118 here 6th Edward VI., 8, 14, and 16 cwt., and the foiirth, called a "Saimsc beU," 4 cwt. In Blomeficld's time there were five bcUs. Snoeixg Great, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. + Scarum fHeritis □ ^niicjamiis CCantica Ilaiitiis. - On crown, three large shields : Brasyer. This is a fine large bell, bu-t unfor- tunately cracked. There was a saint's bell here in Blomefield's time. Snoring Little, S. Andrew — 1. Pack and Chapman of London fecit 1770. Three beUs 6th Edward VI. A faculty to sell two bells is dated 30th June, 1772. SoMERTON East, Blessed Virgin Mary. Church demolished. Somebton "West, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. + lOHANNES : DE : LENNE : ME : FECIT. [See p. 23.] SouTHACRE. See Acre South. South Burgh. See Burgh South. SouTHERY, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1 . 1747. Two bells 6th Edward YL, 5 and 4 cwt., and in Blomefield's time. SouTHMERE, All Saints. In ruins in Queen Elizabeth's time. South Eepps. See Eepps South. South Walsham. See Walsham South. Southwood, S. Edmund — 1. No inscription. There was but one bell 6th Edwaid VI. Margaret Candeler, by will dated 23rd October, 1538, gave "toward the bjdng of a bell for the C'hurche of Sowood iiij" ; " and John Dyser the elder, in the same year, bequeathed toward the " bying of a New bell for the churche of So wood xiijs iiij'^." Spabham, Blessed Virgin Mary — 3. 1. Edward Copeman and Edward Ilvtson Church Wardens 172C. 2. lohn Stephens cast vs 5. 1726. 3. Edward Copeman Edward Hvtson Chureliwardens. I.S. 172G. Four bells 6th Edward VI., 6, 8, 10, and 12 cwt., and but two clappers. In 1776 the two smallest of the peal of five bolls, one being cracked, weighing about 10 cwt. and worth aliout £35, were, with certain old lead, sold by faculty. CHURCH BELLS OF NOKFOLK. 213 Spixwoeth, S. Peter — 2. 1. 4- WALTERWS BLOWERE ME : FECIT. Cross engraved at p. 77. 2. Blank. Two bells 6th Edward VI., 1 cwt. 60 lbs., and 1 cwt. Sporle, Blessed Virgin Mary — 2. 1. Cesar Newton Churchwarden T. Osborn Fecit 1795. 2. FECISTIS : NVPTI ; VOCITO ; P^T^E ; VENIATIS ; 1593 TH ; DP □ [Stop, Thomas Draper's fleur-de-lis, engraved at p. 43.] Thi-ee bells 6th Edward VI., 6, 9, and 15 cwt. In 1795 there were three bells hangins? in the tower. The repairs required to be done to the chiu-ch amounted to £100. A faculty was granted for the sale of two bells weighing about 15 cwt. and worth about £50. Speowston", S. Margaret — 3. 1. ^nn0 Dammi 1625 -^ 2. J. Taylor fecit Loughbor" + OS . JIEUM . AJSTNVNTIABIT . LAUDEM . TTTAII . + MDCCCXLIV. 3. + : OMNIS : SPIPITVS : LAVDET : DOMINVM : [See p. 80, cross engraved at p. 56.] Three bells 6th Edward VI. Stalham, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. Anno Domini 1626 -.tt Three bells Qth Edward VI., 5, 7, and 10 cwt. In 1783 the Bishop granted a faculty for the sale of thi-ee bells, one of which had been down and broken many years, the parishioners having rej^resented to him the ruinous and decayed condition of the church, especially in the roof. Stanfield, S. Margaret — 4. 1 . John Draper made me 1629 Margere the wife of John Tyllos. 2. + (Qucsimus Slntirfa □ iFamuIorum Siisci'pe Fota. 3. John Draper made me 1629. 4. + Vata larpcntie pfa [J Horja iIHa:(j"t(aIcna fHariau On crowns of 2 and 4, three shields : Brasyer, p. 10 Three beUs 6th Edward VI. Stanford, All Saints — 1. Diameter 25A- inches. lohn Brend made me 1653. Three bells 6th Edward VI. In Blomefi eld's time one of them was broken. In 1747 a faculty was granted for the sale of two bolls, to repair the south aisle and steeple, which were ruinous. Stanhoe, All Saints — 1. William Dobson founder Downham Norfolk 1828, In 1791 a faculty authorised the sale of the two smallest of three bells which had been broken for a long time, and were supposed to be worth .£40. 214 IXSCUIPTIONS UN THE Stanixghall. Churcli in ruins. Staestox, S. Margaret — 5. Tenor, diameter 35 inches. 1. € antj S fflcars Jouutirrs Eonton 1BQ€€€I£HI;3I. 2. 5. Slnnci Domtni 1G19. AB On crowns, three shields : Xorwich city, Brasyer, ermine, and -^ 3. C. and Gr. Mears Pounders London 1847. 4. C and G. Mears Founders London Augustus Macdonald Hopper Eector. Ciiarles Etheredge David Feaverver Churchwardens. Four hells 6th Edward YI., 6, 7, 9, and 11 cwt. In 1847 the then 2, 3, and 5 were recast, one of them being cracked, into the present 1, 3, 4 ; thus the old treble is now the second bell, and the old fourth the tenor. The inscription on the old tenor is given by Blomefield : ^3fr Cfjomt fHrritis ffltrramur Gaiitita Eucis. No doubt it should read "Xos Thome." Stibbaed, All Saints — 1. + IID : XASERENYS ■■ EEX IVaiORYM. [See p. 83.] Three bells 6th Edward YI., 4, 5, and 6 cv.-ts. In 1746 the Bishop, in consideration of the large sum of money already expended by the parishioners, granted them leave to sell the two smaller bells of their peal of three, towards ropauing the north and south aisles. Stifpkey, S. John. No church. Stiffkey, S. Mary — 1. -+- SANCTE : PAYEE : OEA : PEO : NOBIS. [See p. 83.] Stocktox, S. Michael — 5. Tenor, diameter 361 inches. 1. S. Marfrey . D. Turner Churchwardens T. Mears fecit 1821. 2. Slnno jDonunt 1620 ^y 3. + ^ucsunuis 3lntirca □ Jamulorum Susci'pe Fotn. 4. Daniel Batley EoLart Jarrod Clivrch AVardens L S. 1721. [John Stephens.] 5. + ?^cc jFit Scorum □ Campana lEautc 15onorum. On crowns of 3 and 5, three shields : Brasyer, diapered, p. 10 ; cross, No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. Three bells 6th Edward YI. Stodey, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. + Sancta • fHari'a ♦ ©ra ♦ Prcnobi's. On crown, three shields : bell and cross keys engraved at p. 62. In the will of Eobert Braunche, of Stodey, Esq., dated 1502, is the following bequest : " Itm to the exchange or Reparacion of a newe belle to be hadde or made to a convenyent acorde to the other two bellis in the stepull of Stodey if suche a belle be bought or had be exchange Cs." Three bells 6th Edward YI. In 1759 a faculty was granted for the sale of the 1st and 2nd bells of the peal, weighing respectively 10 and 6 c-n-t. CHURCH BELLS OF ^'OUI■'OLK. •215 Stoke Ferry, All Saints — 1. 1766. A faculty to sell two old l)clls is dated 8th January, 17G.5. It recites that the church was lately beaten down by the fall of the steeple or some other accident, and that £212 had been collected on a brief towards its repair. Stoke, Holy Cross — 3. 1. + 3u fHuItis 3lnnis H l^rsaiut Campana 3oii'g, On crown, three small shields: Brasyer, p. 31; ci'oss engraved at p. 26. 2. lolm Brend made me 1640. 3. E. B. 1661. [Elias Brend.] Three beUs 6th Edward YI. Stokesby, S. Andrew — 1. Edw. Tooke made me 1679. One bell 6th Edward YI., 6 cwt. Stow Baedolph, Holy Trinity — 6. Tenor, diameter 38 J inches. 1 . Joseph Eayre fecit. Francis liising John Buttintoft Church- wardens. 2. Joseph Eayre S*. Neots 1767. 3. (+) K-QX : te(rb)o : sed : (v)oce : (e)eso(xa)bo : (0)0(^11)^(1) : la(vd)e(m). 1601. On crown, a shield : Brasycr diapered, j). 10; between the initials T N See p. 74. 4. F. Eising Ch "Warden Osborn and Arnold S' Neots fecit 1775. 5. Tliis bell recast at the expence of Thomas Hare Esquire 1809. [By Dobson.] 6. (cA)E(L)o(R)y(M) - - cnR(i)sTi - - (p)laceat - - tib(i) - - ee(x) - - (s)oxo - - (i)st(e) - - 1612. The bracketed letters on 3 and 6 are filed oil'. See p. 6. Three bells 6th Edward YL, 8, 10, and U cwts. This peal was increased to eight a short time since by the addition of two treldcs, cast by Messrs. \Varner and Sons of London. The ornament between the words on 6 is here engraved. 216 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE Stow Bedon, S. Botolph — 1. T. Osborn fecit 1797. Tlios Eldred Jolm Watts C. Wardens. Stradsett, Blessed Virgin Mary — 3. Tenor, diameter 32 inclies, 1. Osborn & Arnold S' Neots fecit 1774. 2. Charles Newman made me 1700. 3. H. Tomson C. W. Cliarles Newman made me 1700. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Stratton Long, S. Mary — 5 and a clock bell. 1. Jolm Soley Eector . . 1701 T N. [Tliomas Newman.] 2. John . Kybird . & Giles Middleditch C. Wardens. 1784. T.N. 3. + lEGV : ENLEHON : DE : TOI : SIEE : ION : STVEMIN : EIT : FEEE : MOI -j THOMAS : MADE : ME [See p. 77.] 4. lohn Brend made me 1652. 5. Eev'^ Cliarles Carver Eector Eich'' Hotson Isaac Webster C" Ward" T. Osborn feci' 17S9. Clock bell. + : SANCTA : CATEEINA. Cross engraved at p. 56. There were four bells 6th Edward VI., 7, 9, 11, and 13 cwts. Blomefield tells us that on one of the bells, no doubt the tenor, was this inscription : Nos ^ocict 5'anctis Scmpjt Wicljolaus En '^Itis. Stbatton Long, S. Peter. No clinrcli. Steatton Long, S. Michael — 1. 1766. Three bells 6th Edward VI. An order for the sale of a split bell, there being two loft, is dated 7th Oct., 1704. A facultj' was granted for their sale in 1766, their weight being 9 cwts. Twenty or thii-ty feet of the tower had to be taken down, and a small bell purchased. Steatton Strawless, S. Margaret — 6. 1. lohn Darbie made me 1664. A brass plate on the stock of this bell bears the arms of ]\Iarsham, and is inscribed, " The gift of Thomas Marsham gent Anno Dum 1696." 2,5. glnna Bomtm 1629. 3. The guft of Thomas Marsham : gen' lord of the Manner of Stratton Streles and patro of this chrch. 1629. AV.B. 4. lohn Brend made me 1636. 6. Per me filielcs tiarantur ati preceg 1629. 2, 3, 5, 6 by William Brend. Three bells 6th Edward VI. Thomas Marsham, the donor of the thud bell, died 8th December, 1G38. See Blomefield, vol. vi., p. 335. SUMMEEFIELD. See SoUTHMERE. CHURCH 15ELLS OF NORFOLK. 217 Strumpshaw, S. Peter — 3. 1. + jFac fHarrfareta §.ohi& |^ec iEuncra %eta, 2. ^nno ©omfni 1620. 3. + i^ctrus au 1Et£i-nc \J Bucat Wos |3a0cua Uitr. On crowns of 1 and 2, thi-ee small shields : Brasyer, p. 31. AB On crown of 3, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -.y Three bells 6th Edward VI., 5, 6, and 7 cwts. SiURSTOif, Holy Cross. Dilapidated. SuTFiELD, S. Margaret — 5. 1, 3, 5. Thomas + Gardiner + + Norwich + fecit + 1746. 2. lohn Brend made me 1636. 4. lohn Brend made me 1635. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 8, 10, and 12 cwt. ; two hand-bells, and a " Gabrell" weighing 22 lbs., valued at 4s. SuRLiNGHAM, Blossed Virgin Mary — 4. 1. . lohand Baker : Nich Brickhani Guardian Ecclesiund. I. S. fecit 1718. [John Stephens.] 2. DA GIORIAM DEO 1584 lOHN PERSOO HEMI WOOD. [See p. 86.] 3. + YIEGINIS . EGREGIE . YOCOR . CAMPANA . MARIE _:_:_:_:_ [See p. 51.] 4. + Joljanncs . Cristi . €arc . Qi'tjnare . Pro . i^abi's . ©rare. [Seep. 51.] SuRLiNGHAM, S. Saviour. Dilapidated about 1705. SusTEAD, SS. Peter and Paul — 2. 1 . + AVE : MARIA : GRA : PLEM : DNS : TE : CVM. [See p. 83.] 2. Blank, [^x inform. Eev. H. T. Griffith.] Two bells 6th Edward VI., 4 and 5 cwt., and one bell clapper. About 1745 a faculty was granted, authorising the sale of one of the two bolls, which was cracked, and the application of the money towards the repair of the tower, ten feet of which had to be taken down. Sutton, S. Michael — 3. 1. Thomas . Newman . made . me . 1743 John Barker . C.W 2. + ^uesumxts Sntjrca □ jFamuIorunt Suscfpe Uota. 3. + Sub Feniat Bicjna □ ©onantibus ac^ SStaterina* On crowns of 2 and 3, three shields : Brasyer diapered, p. 10 ; cross ISTo. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 3, 5, and 7 cwt. SwAFFHAM, SS. Peter and Paul — 8. Tenor c. 20 cwt., F, diam. 46 in. 1, 2, 5. Thomas . Newman . of . Norwiclx . made . me . 1737. 3, 4, 6, 7. Miles Graye made mo 1634, z 218 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE 8, Miles Graye made me ^ 1634. Edmond : Holman : cavsed : ys : all : to : be : made : The Black Book of Swaff ham was commenced in 1454, and contains, ijiter alia, nn inventory of the churcli goods and a Bode roll. In the former I find this : " Also of the gift of Hugh Mustarder and Alice his wife together with the labour and forethought of Geoffrey Cursun and William Cooper a bell called fourth bell, named Thomas, with the costs of the clapper xxvij marks." The Bede roll was read in SwafFham church at a mass of Requiem celebrated immediately after High mass on Wliit Monday. It began, " We shal prey specialy for the soule of, &c.," and the fourth entry on the roll is, " Also for the soule of Hue Mustarder which gcve A chalice And of Alice his wijf which gevc y^ lytyl belle of the fowcr." The date of this gift would be about 1420. A little further on we read, " Also for the soule of Thomeis Blake which geve j Chalice gylt ^ the clok belle ^-c." The Inventory of 6th Edward VI. mentions only three " stoplo bells weinge vjm iiijc" i.e. 15, 20, and 28 cwt., p.ndfour clappers. The toA\'n accounts for 1633-4, in which year Edmond Holman was churchwarden, do not show where the six large bells were cast, nor make any mention of Miles Graye's name. In 1631-2 I find these items : — V^ for beare at the taking downe of the bell . . Pd for fetchin the bell from Thetford Pd for sending a letter to Thetford to Draper . . P^^ to Eobt Bodham for carying the great bell to Thetford and for bringing her home in p't PJ for my horse meate and charges at Thetforde with the great beU . . P"! to the worlonen for hanging the bell in p't Spent on them and Draper and their helpers . . 1632-3. Post in the hands of W"" Bodham j bond of Draper for . . . . 7 4 1633-4. It Rec of Drap' of Thetforde the some of . . . . ..800 It would however appear that this money was not recovered without a suit at law. Under the year 1737 are the following notices of the increase of the peal to eight in that year. 1737 19 Aprill Bell mettle deliv^ to T. Newman c. qr. lb. Swafi"ham old bell weighed . . . . . . 7 2 24 North Pickenham .. .. .. 8 6 South Pickenham . . . . . . ..322 By M^ Dashwoods Acct .. .. .. 3 2 11 4 7 1 2 13 3 10 11 3 8 a bell weighed another weighed another weighed 22 3 15 deduckt ,. 3 2 2 19 1 13 Nc c. 7 5 4 !wman qr. lb. 1 10 with Cro\\Ti staple 7 with ditto 2 14 with ditto 17 3 CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 219 Among the payments — 21 Aprill Pd rickenham Church warden .. .. .. 27 3 4 1 1 June PJ for Pickenham faculty . . , . . . 3 1 1 G On the 9th, 16th, and 23rd April, Newman was paid £1 Is. Od., and on the 7th May, 9s. 6d. As these are the only money payments I can trace, I presume he made his profit from the 2 cwt. overplus of bell metal. SwAFiELD, S. Nicliolas — 4. 1, 2. ^nna Bommi 1615. AB On crowns, three shields : Norwich city, Brasycr, ermine, and ,y 3. No inscription. 4. lohn Brend made me 1641. Three bells 6th Edward VI. SwAiNSTHORPE, S. Peter — 4. 1. No inscription. 2. ^nna ID0mmi 1629. 3. 4. Anno Domini 1629. On waist of 2, a small shield : Brasyer. On waists of 3 and 4, a large shield : Brasyer, p. 31. SwANNiNGTON, S. Margaret — 3. 1,2. E. T. 1674. [Edward Tooke.] 3. John Drainer made me 1621 j^ [Draper's mark engraved p. 46.] SwANTON Abbots, S. Michael — 1. Diameter 35 in. anno ©ommi 1620 ^^ Three bells 6th Edward VI., 2, 3, and 5 cwts. A faculty to sell two split bells, supposed to weigh 13 cwts., and to be worth M5, is dated 1775. SwANTON MoRLEY, All Saints — 5. 1. Tho. Newman made mee 1730. Peter Rix & William Ingledow C. "VV. 2, 3, 4, 5. John Draper made me 1623. One bell 6th Edward VI., of 12 cwt. SwANTON NovERS, S. Edmund K.M. — 1. Thomas Mears of London founder 1833. Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1752 the parishioners representing to the Bishop that the church was much dilapidated and the lead old, that a new desk, pulpit, chest, rails to divide the altar from the chancel, south door, Conmion Prayer-book, herso cloth, hood, king's arms, and Ten Commandments were wanting, iSrc., and that being burthened with a numerous poor, they were unable to supply them, obtained leave to seU two bells, one being cracked and the other having the cannons broken. z2 220 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE SwARDESTON, S. Andrew — 4. 1. No inscription. 2. Anno Domini 1629 ^ [Split.] 3. Gone. 4. Anno Domini 1567, I.B. [John Brend, sen.] 5. + Petrus ^ti lEternc Q Oucat Nos ^ascua File. On crown, three shields : Brasyer, p. 10 ; cross No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. " As James Coleman, bricklayer, of Swardeston, Norfolk, was ringing a bell in Swardeston church, when half up the crown and cannons broke from the bell, and it came down through both floors, breaking the door that covered the well hole in the lower floor, and killed him instantly on the spot." — Annual Register for 1806, p. 370. His tombstone, dated 9th February, 1806, remains on the floor of the tower, with an inscription in verse almost illegible. The bell stood for many years in the church, and at length, shortly after 1834, was stolen, taken to the common, and broken up. Only a cart load was taken away into Sufi"olk, the remainder being concealed in the hedges. More than 1§ cwt. was recovered by the churchwardens. Syderstox, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1 . C. and G. Mears founders London 1851. One bell of 2 cwt. here 6th Edward YI. Tacolneston, All Saints — 5. 1. Tho. Osborn fecit Downham Norfolk 1799. 2. Thomas Osborn Founder Downham Norfolk 1799. 3. Eev** J"" Warren, Rector, James Howes and John Archer Churchwardens T. Osborn fecit 1799. 4. SCnna Dami'ni 1618. AB On crown, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and vy 5. Thomas Newman of Norwich cast me new in 1732. Four beUs 6th Edward YL, 5, 7, 8, and 12 c^sis. Tasebtjrgh, Blessed Virgin Mary — 4. 1. Anno Domini 1631. 2. Anno Domini 1613 W. 3. A6Dol59STB. 4. Snn0 Gommi 1614. AB On crown, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and ,y All the bells are by Brend. Between the letters T B on the third bell, is a shield : arg., on a pale within a bordui-e sab. three bezants, — the arms of Thomas Baxter, whose tomb, dated 1611, is on the south side of the chancel. He was patron of the church, and lived at Ilainthorpe Hall, which he built. His burial is thus recorded in the register : " 1611. Thomas Baxter of Eainthorpe gent was bui-ied y iiij"' daye of December in y" night by whom I knowc not A°" p'dco." Tatteeford, S. Margaret — 1. 1768. A very small bell. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 221 Tattersett, S. Andrew — 1. T-B E.B 1664. [Qy. Thomas and Elias Brend, seo p. 39.] One beU of IJ cwt., 6th Edward VI. Tavebham, S. Edmund K.M. — 1 . \^JSx inform. Eev. G. W. W. Minns.] Anno Domini 1635 I. B. [John Brend, jun.] Three bells 6th Edward VI., 2, 2^, and 3^ cwta. In 1785 a faculty was granted for the sale of two useless bells, which had been taken down for fear the tower should fall. Ten Mile Bank. See Hilgay. Terrington, S. Clement — 6. 1. Tho' Lester of London made me. 2. John Goldsmith fecit . Maria .1711 J.G Osier Scott. 3. John Mudd and William Wright Churchwardens 1816. [By Dobson.] 4. + NVNC CLEMENS EGO CANO VOBIS OEE IVCVNDO 1595. EW. On waist, R H and a medallion. See p. 78. 5. John Baseley and William Willemot CW. 1 73 1 T Newman fecit. 6. Arnold & Osborn fecit 1778. Six bells 6th Edward VI., 2, 11, 13, 16, 18, and 20 cwts. From 1716 to 17-17 there were only five bells, the treble was added before 1753. Terrington, S. John — 6. Tenor, 12 cwt. 1,2. T Wardale CW. T Osborn fecit 1784. 3. T Wardale C^ Warden T Osborn fecit 1784. 4. T. Wardale Ch. Warden 1784 T Osborn fecit. 5. Tho" Wardale Churchwarden T Osborn Downham Norfolk Fecit 1784. 6. Tho' Wardale Churchwarden T Osborn fecit 1784. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 4, 5, and 6 cwts. Until 1784 there were only four bells. The weight of the present peal is 45 cwt. 3 qrs. 21 lbs. Testerton, S. Eemigius. In ruins. Tharston, Blessed Virgin Mary — 4. 1 . Blank. 2 . Anno Domini 1 6 1 6 W. B . [ WilHam Brend. ] 3. (+) NOS (THOME) MEEIT (IS MEEEAMVE GAUDIA) LV(CIS). [See p. 80.] 4. + (Jiona Ecpentie pia G Eotjo fHasti)al£n (a ffiatia.) The letters on 3 and 4, within brackets, are cut off. On crown of 4, two large shields : Brasyer, p. 31, and Norwich city, p. 11. Four bells 6th Edward VI., 3, 5, 8, and 10 cwt. Thelveton, S. Andrew — 1. 1762. lEx inform. Eev. E. A. Prichard.] The steeple fell down about March 1757, and the two bells were split or damaged by the fall : a faculty to sell thorn and buy a small bell and erect a cupola is dated 1761. 222 INSCRIPTIONS ON THE TnEMELxnoEPE, S. Andrew — 1. + AVE MAEIA GEACIA PLENA. [See p. 80.] Thetford, S. Cuthbert — 3. 1. STfjomas Srapct fHagrr cd *•' 2. 4. Thomas Gardiner Sudbury fecit 1724. 3. Heniy Pleasant did me run in the year 1701. 5. Tho. Gardiner Sudbury fecit 1724 The BedweU C.W. Two bells 6th Edward VI. The following memorandum is made on the inventory : " M' they say that there ys another bell in tho steeple which have been used only for especyall cawscs of the .... & was yeven by one .... to the towne to be used to purposes and that yt is not of the churche goods." The tower of this church fell in the afternoon of Friday, 8 August, 1851, and was rebuilt in the follo\\'ing year. The fourth and fifth bells were no doubt sold at that time. Thetford, S. Mary (Suffolk)— 6. 1. Lester and Pack of London fecit 1765. 2. lohn Draper made me 1615. 3. Thomas Lester & Thomas Pack of London made me 1753. 4. Thomas Gardiner Sudbury fecit 1725. 5. lohn Darbie made me 1664 L T. Orsburne Clarke and Burrage IMartin CW. 6. + lohn Goldsmith fecit 1711. Isaack Fawkes Churchwarden. Sa. Maria. Martin says: "On the lowest boll, before it was new cast in 1698, was this verse : Dona repende dia roga Magdalena Maria." Thetford, S. Peter with S. Andrew— 8. Tenor, 19 cwt., F. 1. Cum Voeo Yenite Tho^ Osborn fecit 1790. 2. Tho' Osborn Founder 1790. 3. Thomas Osborn Downham Norfolk Fecit 1790. 4. Our voices shall with joyful sound Make hills and valleys echo round 5. In wedlock's bands all ye who join With hands your hearts unite So shall our tuneful tongues combine To laud the nuptial rite. T. Osborn fee* 1790. 6. T. Osborn fecit 1790. 7. T. Osborne founder 1790. 8. Percute Dulee Cano. Town of Thetford 1790. T. Osborn fecit. There were four bells here 6th Edward VI. In February-, 1789, the tower was found to be so ruinous that it had to be taken down and rebuilt ; there were six vorj- old bells in it, which were disposed of towards purchasing the present peal. In 1 794 a faculty was obtained con- firming these and other acts. Tho inscnption on the old tenor was, according to Martin, Xos Cfjomc fHrritts iBrrramur Cautiia Euris. * He was Mayor in 1592. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 223 Thickthorn, a hamlet to Hetliorsett. No church. Thirning, S. Andrew — 1. ANNO DOMINI 1592 WB. [William Brend. ] In 1772 a faculty was granted for the sale of two bells, one whereof had been split, and both had been useless tune out of mind. Their estimated weight was 13 cwt. TnoMPSON, S. Martin — 3. 1. lohn Draper made mo 1630. 2. 3 B 1608 [and Draper's mark engraved at p. 43.] 3. John Draper made me 1607. But one bell of 6 cwt. in the 6th Edward "VI. TnoRNAGE, All Saints — 1. + AYE : MAEIA ; GE'A : PLENA : DN'S : TECVM. [See p. 83.] Beds for two other bells remain. There was however only one bell of 6 cwt. in the 6th Edward VI., but we learn from a memorandum attached to the inventory, that Sir William Butts, in the 4th Edward VI., took two beUs weighing 6 cwt. out of the steeple, and sold them to Megate (?) of Norwich. In the Terrier delivered at Bishop Trimnell's primary %asitation in 1709 the inscription on the bell is given, and this, " Item wc have one acre of land lying in y^ feilds of Hunworth amongst y^ lands of W™ Newman Esq' which by p'scription is s'' to be giuen to y-' s'^ Town to keep the bell in order to King & knowne by y name of Bell acre." Thornham, All Saints — 1. John Taylor Loughborough 1865. The old bell was inscribed, " Stephanus Tonni me fecit 1557." But one bell, of 8 cwt., in 6th Edward VI. In 1785 a faculty was granted for the sale of two old cracked bells, weighing about 18 cwt. and worth about £36., which had lain in the church useless for many years. Thorpe Abbotts, All Saints — 2. 1. lohn en Darbie i=i made czi me en 1678 i=i 2. lohn Goldsmith fecit 1712 M^ lohn Caton C'> W^ M^ S' Stanard. In the 6th Edward VI. there were tliree bells here. It is said that one was sold to Iloxne in Suffolk, where it may be mentioned there are bells cast by John Darbie and John Goldsmith, respectively dated 1676 and 1711. Thorpe Hamlet, S. Matthew — 1. C. & G. Mears Founders London 1 84 -. Thorpe M.vrket, S. Margaret. No beU. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 2, 3^, and 4i cwts. Thorpe next Haddiscoe, S. Matthias — 2. 1. Anno Domin 1632. [Diameter 27^ inches.] 2. + OEA : MENTE : PIA : PEO : NOBIS : VIEGO : MAEIA. [See p. 80. Diameter 30 inches.] 224 INsclll^TIO^'S on the TnoRPE NEXT Norwich, S. Andrew — 1. Thomas Newman made mee 1708. One bell 6th Edward VI., valued at 16s. lOd. Thorpe Parva, Ble.ssed Virgin Mary. In ruins. TnoRPLAND NEAR Fakenham, S. Tliomas. This cliapel was desecrated as long ago as the reign of James I. Thorpland, S. Thomas (Wallington cum Thorpland). No church. Thorp Shouldham. See Shouldham Thorp. Threxton, All Saints — 1. + Sancta . fHart'a . ©ra . Pro . illcibis. On crown, thi-ee shields : bell and cross keys, p. 62. Two bells 6th Edward VI., one of 5 cwt. broken, and one of 6 cwt. Thrigby, S. Margaret — 1. : FAO : MAEGA : EETA : NOBIS : HEC : MVNA. [See p- 80.] Thurgarton, All Saints — 2. 1. 1823. 2. Thomas Mears of London founder 1836. These bells hang over the south porch. Two bells of 7 and 5 cwt., and but one clapper, 6th Edward VI. Thurlton, All Saints — 5. Tenor, diameter 40 inches. 1. Anno Domini 1632. [On crown] The Denney. 2. Thes Bells wear made by M' Thomas Denney Chvrchwarden of Thvrleton Ao Dni 16C2. 3. Anno Domini 1632. 4. Anno Domini 1632. [On crown] oiaao. 5. Anno Domini 1632. [On crown] tho DENNi also Thorn Denny (all upside down.) These bells are by Brend. No. 2 has Brasyer's shield, ermine, p. 31. Four bells 6th Edward VI., i\, 6|, 8, and 10 cwt. Thurne, S. Edmund — 1. + EDMVNDI : NOMEX COVSTAT CVI DET DEVS AMEN WILELMVS : DE NORWico ME TECiT. [See p. 25.] Query, should we read constat for covstat, omen for amen ? Three bells 6th Edward VI., 4, 7, and 9 cwts. Thurning. See Thirning. Thursford, S. Andrew — 1. 1744. In the Visitation Inventory of 1716 I find, "Item three bells with their frames, but one of them gone to bo cast anew." There arc no inventories for 1723, 1725, and 1729 ; and in 173-5 there were only two bells, which are mentioned as late as 1827. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 225 TnuRTON, S. Ethelbert— 3. 1. No inscription. 2. + Ui'rgtni's dJffrctjie □ Uocar (IfTampa fHarie. On crown, three small shields: Brasycr, p. 31 ; cross, p. 26. 3. Anno Domini 1630. On haunch, a large shield : Brasyer, p. 31, Three bells 6th Edward VI. Thuxtoi^, S. Paul — 1. □ lOHN DRAPER □ MADE ME □ 1642. The three stops on this bell are respectively a crowned rose reversed ; a shield reversed, charged with a chevron, in base a crescent ; and Draper's mark, engraved at p. 46. Three bells 6th Edward A^I. In 1757 the Bishop of Norwich granted a faculty authorizing the sale of two bells, one Avhereof was split, the demolition of the south aisle and as much of the tower as was necessary, and the sale of the lead and other materials. TnwAiTE NEAR Aylsham, All Saints — 1 . + AVE : MARIA : GR'A : PLENA : ttN'S : TECV. [See p. 83.] Two bells 6th Edward VI. In 1751 a facidty was granted for the sale of a bell which in the memory of the oldest man had been useless, the eye on which the clajiper hung being- broken. Thwaite NEAR BuNGAY, Blessed Virgin Mary — 2. 1. No inscription. j^ 2. Thomas Newman made me 1711. " T ====[■ "^^/^ (f-»A. ^^X4tX\J\t^ Two bells 6th Edward VI. TiBENHAM, All Saints — 6. Tenor 20 cwt., note E. 1. Recast by John Warner and Sons London 1863 T. "W. Thompson M.A. Vicar J. Betts H. Brewster C.W. Holi- ness unto the Lord. 2. 3, 4. T. Osborne fecit 1787. 5. T. Osborne fecit 1787. Percute Dulce Cano. 6. T. Osborne Downham 1787 Mich Beverley Thomas Kemp Churchwardens. In the 3rd of Edward VI. there were five bells, containing by estimation 70 cwt. TiLNEY, All Saints— 6. 1, 2, 4. Tho, Gardiner Norwich fecit 1745. 3. Tho. Newman fecit 1720 Lestrange Southgato Tho. Johnson C. W. 5. T. Newman made me 1731 Matthew Soughgate and Eichard Johnson C. W. G. Thomas Norris made mee 1661. TiLNEY CUM Islington. See Islington, 'tu^. 226 iNscRirxioxs on the TiLNEY, S. Laurence — 1. John Draper made mo 1625. In the will of Thomas Trencho of Tilncy, proved in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury in 1624, is this bequest : " Item I doc give for to buy a bell to hang up in the chapel of Tybiey St. Lawrence twenty pounds to be paid within a month after my decease." TiTCiiWELL, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1. No inscription. TiTTLEsnALL, Blcssed Virgin Mary — 4. AT? 1, 2, 3, 4. ^1X1X0 ©ommt 1623 "^y Two bells 6th Edward VI. TivETSHAxii, S. Margaret — 5. 1, 2. lolin Darbie made me 1670. 3. Tho' Osborn founder Downham Norfolk 1800 W" George C*' Warden. 4. + : SCE : (EDMVNDE) : PEO : ME : (INTEECEDE) : [See p. 80.] The bracketed words are cut off. 5. John Stephens fecit 1726 John Gardner Chvrch "Warden. [Cracked.] Four bells 6th Edward VI. TiYETSHALL, S. Marv — 4. 1, 2. ET 1674. 3. ET4716. [Edward Tooko.] 4. + ^£ttu3 atJ 3Et£rn£ □ Sucat K0S ^ascua Uite. On crown, three shields: Brasyer, diapered, p. 10 ; cross No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. Foui- bells 6th Edward VI., 10, 12, 14, and 16 cwt. In 1702 the church had fallen into decay, and there were six bells in the steeple, one whereof was split. The Bishop made an order for its sale to enable the parishioners to repair their ruinated chui-ch, which was in great danger of falling to the ground. In Blomefield's time there were five bells. Toft Monks, S. Margaret — 3. Tenor, diameter 42J inches. 1. Samvel Gilpin me fecit 1700. 2. + IDftrns ^n lEttxnz □ Sucat ilo3 ^ascua Ui'tc. 3. + ffluncre Baptistc n Bcnrttctus S>it Cljorus Kste. On croM-ns of 2 and 3, two shields, Brasyer: and a third, Norwich city; the cross on 2, is No. 2, p. 32 ; the stop, p. 33 ; the cross on 3, is No. 1, p. 32. ToFTKEES, All Saints — 1. lOHANES DEAPEE ME FECIT \J 1610. [Stop, a crown.] One bcU 6th Edward VI. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 227 Tofts West, Blessed Virgin Mary — 8. Tenor, 12 cwt., Gr. 1. + f^omimbbs bonitas (laglor X856. 2. + En terra pai QTaglor IS56, 3. + Gloria ill cicdsis Deo E STanlcr + Jccit EoOgljboroljgf) + 18V-). 4. 5Lai)3 Bca K S^aglor + iFccit 5£aurjparflug!j + IS^O. 5. lolin Draper made me 1618 □ [Draper's mark, p. 46] 6. + C&m i30C0 fanti'U. 7. + i^omcix sancttim ]!csb : nos scr&a mortis ah csb. 8. + Sonorc meo sona rcsono ©ca + Dcftinrtos pioro iffsla ©ccoro QTaoIor + dFccit jBo&tjporaugf) + 18V-). On the waist of this bell is a shield charged with the arms of the Eev. A. Sutton, by whom the peal was given to the church : Argent, a canton sable, impaling .... a cross patouce . . . between four roses. . . . Three bells 6th Edward VI., 3, 7, and 10 cwt. In Blomefield's time there were four bells, the tenor being inscribed, Uirgo roronata buc nos atl rcgna 6rata. In 1756 a faculty was granted for the sale of two split bells, the money arising to be applied to the repaii- of the roof, great part of which had then lately been blown off. ToiiTEEE. No cLurch. TopcEOFT, S. Margaret — 3. 1, 2, 3. lolm Brend made me 1640. [Tenor cracked.] Four bells 6th Edward VI. ToTTENHiLL, S. BotolpL — 1. Diameter 27 in. No inscription. " M that the belles in the Steaple were stolen on seynt Valentj-nes even the xiij daye of ffebruary A° v*o E. vj*'." Inventory 6th Edv.-ard VI. In October, 1842, there was no bell, and the church was much out of repair. A faculty was granted for the sale of the lead, the erection of a new roof, and the putting up in the course of the ensuing simimer of a second-hand bell of not less than 5 cwt. , or a new bell of not less than 4 cwt. ToTTiNGTON, S. Andrew — 6. Tenor A, diameter 33 in., c. 9 cwt. 1. Jolm Taj'lor & Son founders Lougliboro 1856. 2. L «&; P. of London fecit 1775. 3. 4. Lester & Pack of London fecit 1775. 5. Eobard Gurney made me 1655. 6. lohn Brend made me 1650. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 6, 11, and 15 cwt. Towif BAiixiXGnA:M:. See Barxixgilv:,! Towx. Teimmixgham, S. John Baptist — 1. + 3^ic'0 Baiter Brasi'cr tic Nortagco jFrn't {Bt, [See pp. 9, 27.) Three bells 6th Edward VI. In 1746, the parishioners having represented to the Bishop that their chm-ch, if not timely repaired, was likely to fall down, he granted them a faculty to sell two bells which were entirely useless, one being cracked and the other not huncr. 228 INSCBIPTIOXS ON THE Trowse Millgate. No cliurcL. Trowse Newtox, S. Andre^v — 1. Lester and Pack of London fecit 1767. Three bells 6th Edward VI., and in Blomeficld's tune. Two were sold Lctwccn 1753 and 1760. Truxch, S. Botolpli— 3. 1. Thomas Newman made mee 1710. 2. Edward Piggon CW. Thomas Newman made mee 1707. 0. + THOMAS . DELENNE ISIE FECIT. [See p. 23.] 4. . Ilenry Hovsegoe Chvrch Warden . Jolin Stephens made mee . 1719. Three l)ells 6th Edwai-d YI., and but two clappers. "VXTien I copied these inscriptions in 1861, the third bell, being cracked, had been taken off its frame about twelve years. Upon the " restoration " of the church in 1863, it was sold to Messrs. Warner and Sons. It appears from Tlie Noricich Gazette or the Loyal Packet for 1717, that there happened at Trunch, on Thursday night, 4th July, " a great debate to arise between the churchwardens of the said parish and the parson of the same, concerning ringing there for joy that the Earl of Oxford was acquitted. The churchwardens ha^'ing set out the bells, the parson came to the chirrch in a great passion, and forbad the ringers ringing any longer, and, in short, turned them out of the church, and told them, amongst other things, that the nation was ruined by this act of acquitting the Earl of Oxford, and that the said Earl was for bringing in the Pretender, and much more to that purpose." Tuddexham East, All Saints — 1 and a " Ting Tang." lohn Draper made me 1626. Ting Tang, no inscription. Four bells 6th Edward \1., 5, 6, 8, and 11 cwt. In 1779, to assist the parishioners in the repairs, a faculty was granted for the sale of the 1, 2, and 3 bells, and lead suj^posed to be worth £160. They were strictly enjoined to execute the repairs ■«'ith all convenient speed, and also to pro^^de a small bell, or Ting Tang, for the use of the same church. Tuddexham North, Blessed Virgin ilary — 1. + THOMAS : ME : EECIT. [See p. 87.] One bell of 5 cwt. 6th Edward YI. Ttjxstall, SS. Peter and Paul — 1. Niekolas Howard 1705. The tower is in ruins, and this bell hangs on the gable of the church. In the wall blocking up the chancel arch is a stone inscribed, " This Reblt by ilrs. Elisabeth lenkensn the relict of Mils lenkenson of Tunstul Esq. and Mrs. Anno Kelgall Davghter of y'' said ^liles and Elisabeth 1705." Two bells 6th Edward YL, 10 and 6 cwt. There is an order, dated 11th January, 1704-5, for the sale of an old bell of about 14 cwt., hanging in the decayc) 8 .. 12 (Cambs.) [See p. 7 ■8.] Welney, Blessed Yirgin Mary — 2. 1. Blank. 2. lohn Clarke made me 1613. Wendling, SS. Peter and Paul — 3. 1. lohn Draper made me 1633. 2. + AYE : MAEIA ; GEACIA i PLENA : DON ! 3. + IHOVNNES ; DE GYDDINC ; FECIT i ME. [See p. 24.] Three beUs 6th Edward YJ. Weeeham, S. Margaret — 1. lohn Darbie made me 1664. But one beU 6th Edward Yl. Westacee. See Acre West. West Briggs in Tottenhill. Westedeld, S. Andrew— -1. Tho^ Osborn fecit 1779 Eob' Milk Henry Watson C.W. Eev"* M"' Thomas Eector. In 1754 a faculty was granted for the sale of two bells, which had been useless for many years, to enable the parishioners to repew their church. West Tofts. See Tofts West. Weston, All Saints — 5. 1. Elias Brend made me 1660. A-D 2. S(nna Domini 1624 ^y 3. -h Duln's Si'sto iBtliQ \Z\ Campans Uocor fHtd)is. On crown, three small shields : Brasyer, p. 31 ; cross No. 3, p. 32. 4. T. Mears of London Fecit 1819. 5. X IN CARITATE r] PERFECT .\ [J CONFIRM A □ NOS □ TRINITAS □ s^iNCTA. [See p. 26.] The cross on 5 appears to be the same as that on 3, but is placed saltirewise. Four bells 6th Edward VI., 4, 8, 12, and 16 cwt. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 237 Westwick, S. Botolpli — 1. Anno Domini 1624. Three beUs 6th Edward VI., 10, 12, and 18 cwt. There were in 1780 three hells, of which one was split and the other never used. A faculty was granted for the sale of these two. Wetbouene, All Saints — 1. Thomas Newman mado me 1703. T. B. I. W. Three hells, 3, 6, and 9 cwt., in Gth Edward VI. In 1747 there were four beUs; in 1753 but two, which remained in 1806. In 1820 there was but one bell. "Wheatacre, All Saints — 1. Snna Bomtnt 1618. On crown, three shields : Norwich city, Brasyer, and -.y WnEATACEE Burgh. See Burgh S. Peter. Whinbergh, Blessed Virgin Mary — 2. 1. AVE MAEIA DEACIA PLENA. [See p. 80.] On crown, a shield : engraved at p. 81. 2. + Jos Mallows fecit 1753 Tho Weast Ch. Tliree bells 6th Edward VI., 6, 8, and 12 cwt. In 1756 a faculty ^'as granted for the sale of a bell to help to pew and pave the chm-ch. "Whissonsett, Blessed Virgin Mary — 4. 1. E. T. 1674. [Edward Tooke.] 2. ^nna I30mi'ni 1594 W. B. On crown, thi'eo large shields : Brasyer. 3. lolm Brend made me 1646. 4. John Stephens Pecit 1723 William Waters John Pudd Churchwardens. Three bells, 4, 6, and 8 cwt., 6th Edward VI. On the Inventory is this memorandum : " Note that thyr chui'ch was bio wen downo wherfor they did selle one of the sayd bells for the Repay er thereof yet . . . ." WniTTiNGTON, a hamlet to Northwold. AVniTWELL, S. Michael — 6. 1. Lester & Pack of London fecit 1766. 2. + + Tho Gardiner + Sudbury + Fecit + 1729. 3. lohn Darbie c=i made i=i me czi 1661. 4. + Max abgustim Sonet En Sure Bet. [See p. 52.] 5. + Sancta iAatcrina ©ra Pro ISaW^. [See p. 52.] 6. + S'it i^omcn Bamtni Bcnctiictum. [See p. 52.] At Hackford cum Whitwell, 6th Edward VI., there were four- bells of 6, 8, 10, and 12 cwts. " On Wednesday, November 18th, ]789, the five old beUs from 'WTiitwelL Steeple were carried to Downham and exchanged for a peal of six, which were 238 INSCRIPTIOXS ON THE brought to TVTiitwell, November 20th 1789, and hung by Tho^ Osbom of Downham aforesaid, with new "N^Tiecls, Stocks, Brasses, Clappers, &c., &c. The hanging, tSrc., was completed by the said Tho' Osbom, December oth, 1789. The weight of the old and new Bells are as follows, as also the expense of exchange, hanging, &c., &c. Old BeUs. New Bells. c. q. lbs. c. q, lbs. Treble 4 1 15 Treble 3 2 3 Second 5 2 23 Second 3 2 18 Third 5 17 Third 4 1 11 Fourth 7 1 11 Fourth 5 1 14 Tenor 9 2 Fifth 6 3 20 Tenor 9 27 31 2 12 33 9 31 2 12 Difference . . . . 1 1 25 c. q. lbs. £. s. d. Exchange of 31 2 12 at 14s ,p Cwt 22 2 6 Overplus metal 1 1 25 at 3£ ,p Cwt 4 8 6 To hanging the bells including Wheels, Stocks, Brasses &c. . . 20 £46 11 0" This is transcribed from a contemporary memorandum given me by ilr. E. Keeler of Reepham. The 4, 5, 6, of this peal came from All Saints' church, Barton Bendish. See p. 97 ; also Blomefield, vol. ^ii. p. 285. WlCKEN, see ASHWICKEN. "WiCKHAMPTOx, S. Andrew — 1. Anuo dini 1612 W. B. [William Brend.] WiCKLEwooD, All Saints — 2. 1. Not inscribed. 2. + i^os Eijomz fHcrfti's [j i^creatmir Caautiia 3Lucts. On crown, three shields : Brasyer. — Initial cross, No. 3, p. 32. The Bishop's license for the sale of a bell belonging to this church is dated August, 1690. The bell had been spHt a number of years, and the pa- rishioners, being unable to repair it, had been for a long time pajing "dis- mission fees for the default thereof." WiCKMERE, S. Andrew — 1. lohn Brend made me 1642. Three bells, 6, 7, and 8 cwt., in 6th Edward YI. In 1779 two bells, weighing about 18 cwt. and worth about £30, were sold by faculty. There is at present at this church only a small steel bell. The bell of which the inscription is given above, being so broken at the top that it could not bo himg up in the steeple, was sold to the Earl of Orford, and is now at his Lordship's seat at Mannington. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 239 WiGGENiiALL, S. German — 4. 1. _}. Sancta . fHari'a . ©ca . Pro . i^obts* On crown, three shields : hell and cross keys, p. 62. 2. lohn Draper made me 1618. 3. lolin Draper made me 1621. 4. lolin Draper made me 1630. Four hells 6th Edward VI., 5, 6, 7, and 8 cwt. When these inscriptions were copied, in 1848, the third hoU was split. "WiGGENHALL, S. Mary Magdalen — 6. Tenor, 12 cwt. 1, 2, 4, 5, 6. Lester and Pack of London fecit 1767. [In addition.] 4. At proper times our voices we will raise In sounding to our benefactors' praise. 5. The' much against us may be said To speak for ourselves we are not afraid. 6. Nicolas Edwards & Eich*^ Whisler Ch. "Wardens. 3. Thomas Mears Founder London 1841. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 8, 10, and 12 cwt. "WiGGENHALL, S. Mary the "Virgin — 5. 1, 2, 3. lohn Draper made me 1638. 4. lohn Pryer Churchwarden loseph Eayre St. Neots Fecit 1765. 5. T. Arthur. T. Springall E. Harwick Thomas Norris made me 1651. Three hells 6th Edward VI., 6, 8, and 10 cwt. The third bell was cracked in 1848, when these inscriptions were copied. "WiGGENHALL, S. Peter — 1. Eobard Gvrney made me 1665. But one beU 6th Edward VI. "WiGHTOX, All Saints — 1. lohn Brend made me 1637. Robert Whelpp of Wighton, by will dated 7 January, 1514, gave "to the reparation of the medill bell ther 12'^." Gloi/s, 118. Simon Cressy, in 1528, gave "to the reparation of the bell frame vj^ viij''." Eandcs, 519. In the Public Record Office, Floor A., Room 15, Vol. 500, No. 26, is the following docunient : — " The certyficate of Richarde Bell and Thomas Bartraham Churchwardens of Wyghton of all ornaments plate Jewells and bells soldo or alienatyd in our church by and with the consent of the hole paiysh. " Inprimis we do certyfye that we have solde a broken bell contejminge in weight xij hunderth and an half at xx^ an hundreth . . . . xij" x' " Which we have bestowj'd upon iij f udders of lede to repare and mende the ruynes and decayes of our seid church. " And as for other ornaments plate or Jewells we have not soldo nor alienatyd nor do intende to sell or alienate in or seid church but all other things be well ther." In the 6th Edward VI. there were two bells of 6 and 8 cwts., from which it appears that it was the tenor bell which was sold. 240 INSCRirTIONS ON THE In 1709 thoro were foiu- bells, and in 1777 there was also a " clock bell hanging on the outside." In 1826 the paiishioners proposing to new roof the nave and aisles, and cover them with slate at an expense of £500, a facultj'- was granted authorizing the sale of the old lead, worth about £300, and of three bells, estimated to weigh about 24 cwt. and to be worth £90. WiLBY, All Saints— 5. 1, 2. Thomas Newman of Norwich made me 1736. 3. 4. lohn Draper made me 1634. 5. Thomas Newman of Norwich made me 1736. Mr. John Hare Eector Eichard Palmer C. W. Wilton, S. James — 6. Tenor 34. V inches in diameter. 1, 3. Thomas Newman of Norwich made me 1714. 2 . Joseph Eayre Fecit 1772. 4. lohn Draper made me 1613. 5. Nathan Booty Ch. Warden. T. Osborn Fecit 1785. 6. lohn Draper made me 1618 □ [Drainer's mark, p. 46.] Three bells, 12, 14, and 16 cwts., 6th Edward VI. WiMBOTSHAM, Blessed Virgin Mary — 3. 1. + iSANCTA • MAEIA • OEA • PEO • NOBIS. On crown, three crowned heads : see p. 65. 2. + Cldcsti Mm\m □ Cua ^rclrs i^os (ITibet ^nna. On crown, three shields : Brasyer diapered, p. 10 ; cross, No. 2, p. 32 ; stop, p. 33. 3. Thomas Newman made me 1726. Throe bells 6th Edward YL, 4, 5, and 7 cwts. WiMPWELL. No church. WiNcn East, All Saints — 1. John Draper made me 1624. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 6, 8, and 10 cwts. In 1773 a faculty was granted for the sale of two bells, supposed to be worth about £40, and to weigh 10 cwt. One had been split for many years and the other was quite useless. WiNcn West, Blessed Virgin Mary — 3. 1. De Bvri Sancti Edmondi Stefanus Tonni mo fecit 1576 W. L. 2. + (!i>ncsinuis ^ntiria jFamulorum □ Suscipc Fotn. [Initial cross engraved p. 26.] 3. + Sancte • = = = • ©ra • ^xa ' Hobis. On crown, three shields : bell and cross keys, p. 62. Three bells 6th Edward VI., 6, 8, and 11 cwt. WiNDALE, S. Andrew. No church. Windham. See Wymondjiam. CHURCH BELLS OF NORFOLK. 241 WiNFAKTHiNG, Blessed Virgin Mary — 5. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. lohn Brend made me 1640. anna tut 1616. [Cannons moulded with cable ornament.] No inscription. [Rectangnlar cannons.] Thomas Newman of Norwich cast me nev*' in 1732. Pack & Chapman of London fecit 1773. Four bells 6th Edward VI. Winston, S. Andrew. No church. WiNTERTON, All Saints — 5. 1, 2. Edw. Tooke made me 1677. 3. Anno Domini 1612. W. B. 4. Anno Domini 1607 W. 5. Toby Cobs and Eichard Coks Chvrch war' 1607. W. 3, 4, and 5 by William Brend. Two beUs 6th Edward VI., 6 and 9 cwt. WiTCHiNGHAM Geeat, Blessed Virgin Mary — 1 and a priest's bell. 1. LB. L D. 1637. [See pp. 38, 46.] Priest's bell. T. Osborn fecit 1793. Cum voco venite. Three beUs, 8, 10, and 12 cwt., and but two clappers, 6th Edward VI. A faculty was gi-anted in 1793 confirming the sale of lead and three beUs. It appears that in Slay, 1791, it was determined to apply to Dr. Home for leave to sell the lead of the middle aisle and thi-ee beUs, leaving one large beU and a small one to denote a change at the minister's approach; but as proper estimates had not been made, his lordship gave them leave to proceed, promising that a faculty should afterwards be granted. Amongst the re- pairs intended to be performed was the bricking up, for sake of strength, a window in the belfry and a door totally useless underneath. It appears from the churchwardens' book that their payments in 1791-2 amounted to £147. 8s. lOid. ; and that 8 tons 17 cwt. 2 qrs. 12 lbs. of lead sold, at 16s. per cwt., realized £142. 3s. Od. In 1793-4 the payments were £223. 18s. 8|d., and I find the following entries : — Eecd of T. Osborn for the Bells. The three BeUs wt. 27 cwt. 2 qrs. at £4. 4a. .p Cwt. . . . . 115 10 28 lbs. of Brass at 6