Digging Out The Roots Of The Ship Bell

The varieties of ship bells differ from one another. Throughout history the ship bell has served a wide range of tasks, such as: timekeeping, ceremonies, and alarms. Because of its prolific nature, the ship bell even became a prized possession of many model ship collectors. The model ship bell can come in many different types, such as chrome or brass. The ship bell is a significant part of nautical culture, and remains a symbol of tradition to this day.

Before the chronometer was invented, the ship bell was one of the best methods for keeping time aboard a ship. A half-hour glass was used first for this purpose. Whenever the hour-glass was turned over, the ship bell was sounded to signal the start of the next half-hour. Completion of a full hour meant the ship bell was struck twice. Two more bell strikes were added on for every hour after that. The process went like this until the end of the watchman's four hour shift, after which the process began all over again. The United States Navy's daily routine involves the use of the ship bell.

Another use for the ship bell is for serving in religious ceremonies. This use of the ship bell began in the British Royal Navy as a customary practice for baptizing children. The ship bell was also sometimes used as a christening bowl during the ceremony. Following the baptism, children would have their names signed onto the inside of the ship bell. This ceremonial practice became customary and was upheld by the Royal Navy. The ship bell would continue to remain in use by the ship until it was decommissioned, at which time the religious bell would be stored with the Department of the Navy. The religious aspect of the ship bell was important back then, and even churches would ask to borrow the ship bell whenever possible. Nowadays, the ship bell is kept by museums, rather than the Department of the Navy or churches. Find out more about using ship bells as nautical home decor here.

Model ship enthusiasts are attracted to the history and tradition behind the ship bell. Without a ship bell to decorate a nautical room, the model ship/nautical decor collection just doesn't feel complete. Model ship bells come in many types as well. Brass anchor bells, chrome bells, aluminum bells, bracket bells, and hand bells are just a few of the many times of ship bells.

The ship's bell is indeed a significant part of both the British and American navies' history. The ship bell is still incorporated into our navy to this day. Due to its historical and traditional relevance, the ship bell is here to stay.