Ron Reiff
Before I write another word, I want you to know that my brother and his fiancee spent a Sunday afternoon taking photos of all of the bells that Joseph DeFrees gave us. Without Rick and Paula’s help the “Bell” stories wouldn’t be done.
So my thanks to Rick Reiff and Paula Arntz for their contributions that made these Pieces of the Past possible. I might add that this is the first time I’ve worked with them on Pieces of the Past and it sure felt good!
The difference between the Warren Bell sites and other landmarks like the Soldiers and Sailors monument or the statue of Joseph Warren is: Joseph DeFrees pretty much got permission to erect the towers on his own. There were no “tower” committees, or governmental associations involved. This is one of many reasons that you see the bells where they are. Many are located somewhat out of the way.
Fourth Avenue and Beech was the last “Warren Bell tower.” It was finished shortly after Joseph DeFrees passed away in 1982. The largest bell weighs 5,500 pounds the smallest is 750. Those bells were created in Baltimore by McShane foundry in 1881. The bells called worshipers to Mass at St. Mary’s in Buffalo. Fourth Avenue was the first 100 foot wide street in Warren, and shared the middle of the street with trolly tracks. Remember them?
The hope that the bells, and towers would be there for generations is being fulfilled. One site is showing some age. As long as one tower stands and a little girl or boy asks their Dad about them: there will be bells in Warren, Pa.
