The Simon Cameron Bell Rings On

The Simon Cameron Bell Rings On

The Simon Cameron bell at the Cameron County Courthouse has been ringing faithfully for over 150 years. Donated in 1863 by Cameron, the bell has long been a local symbol of community and continuity.

Jack Wilson current Cameron County Maintenance Director next to renewed Cameron Bell

Over time, though, its story became muddled. Many believed the original bell had been lost, sold, or even donated to scrap drives during the World Wars. When courthouse workers finally cleared out the tower, they discovered the truth: the bell had never left at all. Instead, it was sitting right where it had always been, its inscription hidden beneath 110 years of pigeon droppings. Since the workers had no idea the original bell was thought to be missing, they simply cleaned it up and carried on, until former Maintenance Director and LHR Project Manager Steve Manginell connected the dots and shared that the original bell was still in its rightful place in 2014.

Today, thanks to the care of current Maintenance Director Jack Wilson, the bell looks and sounds better than ever! Jack recently completed a full cleanup and maintenance of the bell, renewing its shine and ensuring this historic piece will continue to ring clear for generations to come.

The courthouse is home to the Lumber Heritage Region’s central office, where this historic bell’s clear chime rings out each day. 

Bell prior to Jack’s cleanup

Close-up of Bell Inscription