Chardon United Methodist Church

Handbell ringing was developed in Europe as a way to practice ringing full-size church bells without disturbing the populace. In America the practice is relatively new. It has grown in popularity since The New England Guild of Handbell Ringers was formed in 1937, and the American Guild in 1954.

There are rigid rules for the care of the bells.  Handbells are precise musical instruments.  They must be played on tables with pads several inches thick. Gloves are worn to protect the bells from contamination. The bells are stored in a special cabinet handcrafted and donated by a member of the church.