of the Bells of St. Columb's
Cathedral
Relayed from Londonderry Preacher, The Most Rev. Dr. CHAS. F. D'ARCY, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland
THIS famous peal of bells is, so far as can be ascertained, the oldest in Ireland. The newest bell was given by the citizens of Londonderry in 1671. Five were the gift of King Charles I in 1638. The remaining two were given by the Honourable the Irish Society, one in 1630 and the other ' recast for Londonderry steeple' in 1614, and are actually older than the Cathedral itself. They were not, however, correctly tuned, and attempts made since have not proved satisfactory. In recent years great advances have been made in the casting and harmonic tuning of bells. The 'Derry bells have recently gone through this new process, and the reconditioned peal will be formally dedicated by the Primate at this evening's ceremony. At the close of the service a team of ringers from St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, will give an exhibition peal.