The History of The Bells of Shandon
Founding and Early History
The eight bells were cast in 1750 by Abel Rudhall of Gloucester, a renowned bell founder of his time. They weigh six tonnes altogether, and each bears it’s own inscription. They first rang out on the occasion of the marriage of Henry Harding to Catherine Dornan on the 7th December 1752.
Recasting and Preservation
Some of the bells have been recast, in 1869 and 1908, which helped preserve the sound and integrity of the bells. They were moved to a fixed bell ringing method called Ellacombe Chimes in the late 1800’s.
Significance
The Bells of Shandon play a unique role in Cork City heritage, being an important part of the soundtrack of the City for decades.
Plan Your Visit to Shandon Bells
Check the website or contact us directly before you visit for the latest updates on opening times.
How to Ring the Bells
The 8 bells are on a fixed ringing method called Ellacombe Chimes. Select a song, follow the numbers to pull the ropes, and gently ring the bells to protect the mechanism.
Steps for Ringing Shandon Bells Using Ellacombe Chiming Method:
1. Selection of Music
Choose a song from songs provided, we have a varied selection of songs that are changed daily.
2. Positioning
Stand at the Ellacombe apparatus where each rope is numbered according to the bell it strikes
3. Technique
Pull the rope from the center gently towards you to ring the bell; the clapper hits the bell in the Belfry, the bell doesn’t move.
4. Sequence
Follow the sequence of numbers in your chosen song, pulling the ropes in the correct order to play the melody.
5. Rhythm and Timing
Our biggest tip is to play the song as you would sing it, as the bells are fixed there’s no delay so you can play at a normal pace.
6. Safety and Etiquette
Ring the bells with care to protect the bells and please respect the residents, pulling one rope at a time and not overplaying. Children must be supervised at all times when ringing the bells.
The Bells of Shandon Poem
Written by Francis Sylvester Mahony “Fr. Prout” 1804-1866
St. Anne’s graveyard to the left of the church is the resting place of the Mahony family, including Francis Mahony (Fr. Prout) who penned the famous song ‘The Bells of Shandon’. Francis was the second child of Martin Mahony, son of Timothy Mahony – the founder of the Blarney Woollen Mills. Francis was ordained a priest in 1832 and appointed Chaplain of the North Infirmary (now the Maldron Hotel) and devoted himself to working with the stricken during the outbreak of cholera. He eventually left the priesthood to concentrate on writing. The name Fr. Prout comes from the name of a well learned but eccentric priest from Watergrasshill whom Mahony had admired.
Discover the enchanting allure of the Shandon Bells, famously immortalized in a beloved poem by Fr. O’Mahony. This heartfelt piece has struck a chord with the Irish diaspora, evoking the bittersweet nostalgia of home for those living abroad. It’s not just a poem—it’s also a cherished song, often taught in Cork city schools, ensuring that its melody resonates through generations. Fr. O’Mahony’s poignant words have undoubtedly contributed to the worldwide fame of the iconic Bells of Shandon, making them a must-see for every visitor to Cork. Come experience the magic for yourself!
Inscriptions on the Bells Of Shandon
- When you ring us we’ll sweetly sing.
- Peace and good neighbourhood.
- Prosperity to the city and trade thereof.
- God preserve the Church and King.
- Health and prosperity to all our benefactors.
- We were all cast at Gloucester in England by Abel Rudhall, 1750.
- Since generosity have opened our mouths our tongues shall sing aloud it’s praise.
- I to the Church the living call and to the grave do summon all