Engine Room Signal Bell, 1800's

Description

The engine room signal bell was made by Chas Cory & Son, 278 Division Street, New York which is on the lower east side of Central Park.  The company was established in 1845, one of the only marine brass ships hardware manufacturers in the country.  The bell was installed in the engine room of  ships to receive signals from the bridge in the 1800s.  There is an 18” brass bell, hammer and spring actions.  The bell is loud and sounds perfect.  Either of the double hammers will strike the bell.  It has been mounted on a hardwood  board which is reinforced at the back.  The board is 32” high and 44” wide and in very good condition.  The bell, considering it is up to 177 years old, is in excellent condition with no known defects; the brass seems to be in perfect condition.  I have never seen one in such outstanding condition, much less one mounted on a display board.  The item is available for pick up in N. Virginia or it can be shipped at an additional charge of $ 500.00.  Nautical antiques such as this signal bell are relatively scarce.  It is clearly marked in two places:  Chas Cory & Son, NY.  This item does not need to restored or cleaned; it is ready for display. The weight is approximately 74 pounds.  This is truly a highly collectible and unique nautical antique.