Chrome Ship Bell 7"

In 1485, a mention is made of a brass ships bell aboard the British ship Grace Dieu, one of the first written mentions of ships bells being used aboard a sailing vessel. Almost ten years later, twin ships bells were noted aboard the Regent, as their use began to spread throughout Europe. As sailing expanded exponentially, with European countries pushing ever farther into the New World, ships bells took on a variety of responsibilities at sea. Aside from decorative bells, the first bells were perfect for marking the passage of time at sea and were used to indicate the different shifts of the sailors aboard ship. As this was the case, the bells on a ship tolled not according to the hour of the day, but to inform the sailors of the changing shifts.

Used aboard ships to mark the passage of time and to regulate the shifts of sailors, the ship bell is a historically important component that is still in use today. Rather than marking the hours of the day, the ship bell marks the six different shifts that take place aboard ship. An even number of rings indicate the hour marks, while an odd number of rings are for the half hour marks. A ship has a total of eight hanging bells, which are rung equally throughout every four hour shift, indicating exactly when sailors are supposed to report to duty. This is an incredibly important and essential task aboard ships, as it notes when the helm and navigator are relieved, and keeps time for the trimming of sails or proper care of the engines, as well as informing the lookout as to his watch. These solid brass bells are also used for safety; in case there is a fire the bell is rung rapidly for five seconds, followed by one, two, or three rings for the location of the fire; for, mid, and aft respectively. With a rich tradition, the ship bell is as functional as it is symbolic, and it truly encapsulates the heart and soul of a ship.