Historic Bell Restoration Celebration
On Sunday, July 19th at 1 PM the public is invited to witness a remarkable moment in Dublin’s history as the historic bell at First African Baptist Church rings for the first time in almost 50 years.
For generations, the bell stood as a symbol of faith, perseverance, and community. Installed in 1920, the 54-inch diameter bell was cast by the C.S. Bell Company of Hillsboro, Ohio, and is believed to be the largest bell produced by the company. The bell assembly weighs approximately 3,150 pounds, with the bell itself weighing 2,060 pounds. Church members believe it likely took years to plan, cast, transport, and install the massive bell following completion of the church building.
When History Finds Its Voice
The July celebration will mark the culmination of the effort to restore the bell as it rings out once again across the community.
More than simply the restoration of a historic artifact, the event represents the power of storytelling, preservation, and partnership. It is a reminder that history is not only something to be remembered, but something that continues to inspire action in the present.
The public is invited to attend the July 19th bell-ringing celebration, and be part of this historic occasion.
First African Baptist Church was established in 1867 and is the oldest African American church in the City of Dublin GA. The current building was built in 1914 after the original wooden church was torn down. On April 17, 1944, the Colored Elks Clubs of Georgia held their state convention at First African Baptist Church in Dublin and sponsored an essay contest. A 15 year old student at Booker T. Washington High School in Atlanta delivered a speech entitled “The Negro and the Constitution.” Little did the audience realize they were witnessing the first public speech by Dr. Martin L. King, Jr., and the start of the Civil Rights Movement.
