A NEW PLACE IN HISTORY United Church of Christ bell moved to Eagle Grove Historical Museum

There’s a long history of the (UCC) United Church of Christ (originally known as The First Congregational Church) in Eagle Grove. It was the very first church established in Eagle Grove in 1881 that became the worship place for generations of families. Though the church location and membership have changed over the years, there’s one thing that’s held strong - the history of the church bell and the families who have helped keep it ringing.

The Henry McShane bell was purchased in 1886 as a project of the Sunday School class. They raised $125 to buy the 720 pound bell which was made in 1885 in Baltimore, Maryland.

It remained hanging in its majestic glory through two church locations until 1961 when a new church was built in its current location at 1115 Southwest Second Street. At that time, the bell was placed in storage. According to church documents, it was placed in storage in the storage shed of W. L. (Stub) and Mary Ellen Christensen.

James Chris Nelson’s wife, Leo Alice, passed away in 1964, and in 1976, Chris, a church member, decided to inquire about the bell and proposed to the church members and Board of Trustees to erect it on the southeast front lawn of the new church in memory of his late wife. His project was approved and many church members helped in the planning of the project. Harold Lewright, Jr. retrieved the bell after the old church building was disposed of, as Harold was the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at that time. A bill from Giese Construction Company dated June 13, 1963, states: Crane Rental $25.00, Loader Rental $12.50, and Truck Rental $3.00.

On Sunday, Aug. 15, 1976, the bell rang once again, but this time it rang at the push of a button by the organist following the morning prelude. Since the clapper/ striker was no longer needed because of the electric button, it was placed in storage.

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