July 11, 2023 Submitted by Sarah Carolan
The Hingham Memorial Bell Tower has been the beneficiary of a beautiful bench that was the Eagle Scout project of Michael Wegener. As stated by Michael, “As part of my Eagle project I built a fully natural wooden bench near Hingham’s historical bell tower. I chose this location over many others because Hingham’s bell tower is over one hundred years old making it one of Hinham’s most prized buildings. I have noticed many people come to listen to the bells or stop by on their walks to listen to the ringers ring their methods. Especially when ringers from Europe come to the U.S to ring, lots of people come from all over to listen to the bells. The bell tower is conveniently placed in Hingham Square right next to Old Ship Church, so the bells can be heard and attract people all over downtown. I thought that a bench that the community can peacefully sit in and listen to the bells on or just to rest on a walk or run would be a nice addition to the bell tower.”
This Eagle Scout Community Service Project will not only beautify the immediate area surrounding the Tower, but will offer Hingham residents an opportunity for rest, repose, reflection and the appreciation of the sounds of the bells as they ring out in memory of the Founding Families of our town.
Over the course of a year, the Memorial Tower is visited by English Change Ringing bands from across New England – and even a few from Old England as well. We have recently had several instances of Tower visits from families researching their ancestors in the nearby cemetery. In this way, this Community Service Project extends its reach far beyond the borders of Hingham, offering welcoming comfort to the larger communities of Change Bell Ringers and Founding Family descendants.
Special Announcement:
Also, On July 23rd, a quarter peal of Bob Caters will be rung, and will be dedicated to our Tower Captain Michael Shilhan, who has devoted over three decades of service to the tower, and who, in 2011 made a pitch to put the bells on modern bearings, and assembled a team to help make that happen. We are so pleased his vision has been realized and recognize this milestone will ensure that this thriving local tradition of change ringing in Hingham will continue for generations to come.