Reference
X586/12/1
Title
Letter:
Charles Herbert, Woburn, Beds., to Rev. Woolmore Wigram.
Writes as a result of seeing report of opening of bells in Hertford with which Wigmore's name and that of Earl Cowper were associated. Asks for advice on situation at Woburn, and expresses a hope that the example set by Earl Cowper might be brought under the notice of the Duke of Bedford. Outlines the situation at Woburn, giving the history of the old and new churches with the six bells remaining in the old tower. A Society of Change Ringers was formed and the Society has been conducted in accordance with the principles advocated in Church Bells. Present ring of bells unavailable for Church purposes by reason of their situation, and repairs are needed. Advocates desirability of placing the bells in the tower of the new church, the old tower being excessively small "& the ropes unusually cramped by the existence of a very large Clock case". The Duke defrays all expenses in Church and Mortuary chapel, but "the low status so general among ringers in this County and the entire absence of scientific Change ringing throughout this County also, has I fear done much to retard our endeavours to reform". Feels need for influence from gentleman in a higher position than his own. Asks for papers on changeringing showing the superiority of a ring of eight over one of six or anything likely to advance the cause so that the matter might be brought to the notice of the Duke, the Rector and the Churchwardens. The Incumbent and Wardens have consented to the activities of the Company, but they are rather inclined to remain passive, the Rector's Warden being His Grace's agent. Other warden and parishioners generally favour removing the bells to the new church. The Society includes some of the most respectable young men of the Town, and through tenancious perserverance they have excited the admiration of many in the town. Duke gave a donation of £5 in aid of the cause so recently as Friday last. Apologises for troubling recipient, but asks for suggestions.
Date free text
26 June 1876
Production date
From: 1876 To: 1876
Level of description
item