This whimsical yet simple double repair gives a new meaning to Yankee ingenuity. What do you do when both the handle and the clapper of a small brass bell from the early 1900s are no longer functional? First you grab a wooden handle from an old rubber stamp and reattach it to the crown of the bell. Then you find a brass Civil War Navy uniform button and fasten it to the inside of the bell, which is just what an enterprising person did to their broken bell in New England sometime in the early part of the 20th century. So thanks to them, I am now able to ring in the new year with my make-do bell. Happy 2013!
Tags: American, brass, wood handle
That handle is typically found on mid 19th c. screwdrivers supplied with sewing machines.
The original design would be boring compared to the creativity of the repair! A nice addition to the pottery and porcelain collection!
Love the button!
Ding Dong!!!What a dinky little item. I love the bling…..makes this bell FAR more interesting. A creative little piece to adorn any make do collection. A good find indeed.