bellfounders

Bellfounders are craftsmen or firms that cast, tune, install, and maintain bells for churches, clock towers, universities, and carillons. The vocation originated in medieval Europe and spread to North America and other regions, where foundries developed standardized methods for producing large bronze bells with consistent tone and strength.

The core craft combines metalworking with acoustics. Bells are typically made from bell metal, a bronze alloy of roughly 77 percent copper and 23 percent tin. Casting begins with a design that shapes the bell’s profile, which influences pitch and harmonic overtones. Molten metal is poured into a mold, and after cooling the bell is finished and mounted. Tuning is a specialized process that may involve removing metal from the inside or rim to adjust pitch and harmonic balance. The bell may be fitted with a clapper, yoke, and other fittings. Foundries often also cast related components such as the clappers and carillon bells, and may provide restoration services for aging bells.

Notable bellfoundries include historic and contemporary firms in several regions. In the United Kingdom, the Whitechapel Bell Foundry and John Taylor & Co are well known for producing and repairing public bells. In the Netherlands, Royal Eijsbouts is a leading modern producer. France’s Paccard Bell Foundry is renowned for historic bells, while in the United States, firms such as Verdin Company and other regional foundries continue a long tradition of bell casting and installation. Bellfounding remains a specialized craft that blends metallurgy, acoustics, and engineering.