Recently recognized as a historical district by the Wisconsin State Historical Society, Nashotah House is again making history by bringing the first change-ringing bells to the state of Wisconsin and only the 42nd set of these special bells in North America.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held at noon on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at the Nashotah House Episcopal Seminary, thanks to the generosity of Dr. James and Mrs. Karen Hyde. According to Dr. Hyde: “We are contributing funds for the bell tower as a way to honor Nashotah’s work that has served as the impetus for the creation of many area churches such as St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Dousman. We wish this gift to remind others of the impact of the Nashotah Mission every time they hear the bells peal.” The tower will be called the St. Mary’s Dousman Bell Tower.

Originating in 17th century English churches, these unique bells ring in an ancient yet modern way, producing a rich cascade of sound. The bronze bells are large and range in weight from a few hundred pounds to as much as several tons. The bells are hung in stout frames within a bell tower that allows them to swing 360 degrees, creating a harmonic sound that cannot be matched by the same bell hung in a stationary position. The first peal in North America sounded at Christ Church Philadelphia in 1850.

Mr. Roland Perschon of Pewaukee gifted the collection of eight change-ringing bells to Nashotah House a few years ago.

“Bells have a special place at Nashotah House,” said The Very Rev. Steven Peay, dean and president of Nashotah House. “They call the seminarians to class; they call the community to chapel; and most importantly, they call the community to prayer. Change-ringing bells will add even more beauty to the House’s community life and will provide a unique opportunity for students to learn a practice originated hundreds of years ago.”

The St. Mary’s Dousman Bell Tower is expected to be completed in the fall of 2017. The first time the bells are rung a worldwide celebration will be held, attracting ringers to the event either in person or online.

Nashotah House
Founded in 1842, Nashotah House is a recognized seminary of The Episcopal Church. Its mission is to educate the highest quality of leaders, both ordained and lay, for the mission of the church.

Original article located at www.lakecountrynow.com.