Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, has died at age 100. A statesman and humanitarian, former President Carter will be remembered for his work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.
Per U.S. campanological protocol:
Bells ring at sunset the day after the announcement of the death of a president or former president.
Ringing to commence on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, at sunset local time.
Bells may be rung fully muffled with the tenor backstroke open. This is the only time bells are fully muffled in the United States. Half muffling is appropriate if not enough muffles are to be had. If a single bell is employed, the bell with the deepest tone should be selected and sounded at an interval of not less than 7 seconds between strikes.
The desire is to get as many bells rung as possible, but with a finite amount of ringers to go around a lot of bells, bells at locations of prominence should be prioritized.
Suggested action:
A peal, quarter peal, or general ringing of up to one hour, as able. Carillons, chimes of suitable range, and handbell ringers may play a recital of pieces appropriate to the occasion.
Further direction on bell ringing for the state funeral will be issued in accordance with the Carter family's wishes.
Cover image: During the 1976 United States presidential election, former Georgia governor Jimmy Carter, soon elected President of the United States, touches the Liberty Bell at Independence Square in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
