The long awaited restoration of the Glendale Bell Tower is now under way!
This 68"tall layered sandstone structure, built in 1883 to complement the Civil War Memorial Chapel, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Glendale bell became a familiar sound throughout the community during the late 1800's and early 1900's. The bell at Glendale Cemetery announced the closing of the gates with a loud peal, sounded somberly for funeral processions, and joyously proclaimed the end of World War I and World War II.
The bell has been silent for many decades. The condition of the tower has greatly deteriorated. The objective of this restoration project is to return the bell tower and the surrounding hillside to their former glory, and provide for the continued maintenance of this majestic tower for years to come.
In the upcoming months, the timber frame which holds the bell, the roof structure, and the bell itself will be lowered to the ground to begin the restoration process. Work is expected to last nearly 5 months, with an anticipated rededication celebration in September of this year. Please feel free to stop by the cemetery to witness the project as it unfolds.
There is much work to do and the cost is great. The Friends of Historic Glendale Cemetery, along with the generous donations of local foundations, organizations, corporations, and individuals have provided the necessary funding to begin the project. The Friends of Glendale Cemetery is still accepting donations for this project to cover future expenses and the establishment of an endowment fund to provide for the perpetual maintenance of the tower. Please visit our donations page, or call the cemetery office at 330-253-2317 for more information about donating to this project, or the maintenance of the beautiful Glendale Cemetery.