Sister Bell

Since 1859, the Bothwell Chapel bell has rung out across the campus to mark the time and special occasions such as commencement and weddings. Cast in Spain in the eighth century, it was brought to the U.S., and later purchased for McKendree in 1855 by President Nelson Cobleigh and Risdon Moore, an 1850 graduate, mathematics professor and Army colonel in the Civil War.

In October the University acquired a “sister bell” from the Niedringhaus United Methodist Church in Granite City, Ill. Its measurements (25 x 31.5 inches) and classic Greek design of a lady with a lyre are a close match to the Bothwell Chapel bell, and both were recast by the same St. Louis foundry. The sister bell will be transported via cart to ring at football games, homecoming, parades and other celebrations.