A 131-year-old church bell gifted by William Jennings Demorest in 1894 has been moved to a secure location after Saturday’s storm damaged its base. While the bell appears intact, Demorest city officials say they have temporarily taken possession of it to ensure its preservation.
Demorest City Councilman Shawn Allen captured photos of the historic bell sitting on the ground outside the old Congregationalist church on Georgia Street. A large tree fell on the brick and mortar base that held the bell’s uprights and yoke.
The church was transferred to Piedmont University a few years ago. Allen said university administrators have been informed of the city’s involvement in securing the bell.
The city of Demorest was founded in 1889 as a private venture of the Demorest Home, Mining & Improvement Company. It was named after William Jennings Demorest, a prominent temperance advocate and prohibition leader. The bell honoring his legacy has long been a symbol of the city’s historical roots.
