The McShane Bell Company traces its roots to 1856 and grew to become one of the largest manufacturing enterprises in Baltimore, producing thousands of bells for installation around the world. In 2019, the company relocated to the St. Louis area and now specializes in:
- Bell Sourcing
- Ringing Systems
- Frames & Fittings
- Maintenance & Inspections
- Restorations
Situated just 20 minutes northeast of downtown St. Louis, the bell company may be reached at:
McShane Bell Company
11460 Dorsett Rd.
Ste. 200
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
(410) 636-4390
McShaneBell.com
Keeping bells ringing
The McShane Bell Company focuses on bell maintenance and restorations, tending to the care and refurbishment of bells in towers throughout the United States. Across a multistep process, bells are cleaned of grime, toxic patina, and surface oxidation. The bell is then buffed to a brilliant luster before the final application of a protective coating is applied. For bells with extensive damage where cracks may be present, technicians specially trained in welding can seal fissures and prevent further degradation.
Depending on the condition, access, and proximity of the bell, McShane Bell Company will restore bells on-site, without the need to ship large or historically significant bells to their Midwest facilities. Existing metal parts can be cleaned and painted to accent the bell’s newly-spruced appearance.
The bell specialists also rebuild complete frame works for all bells, fabricating or replacing stands, steel wheels, yokes, and support timbers as needed. For some churches, universities, and government buildings, this means the bell will swing safely again for the first time in years.
In addition to bell repair and restoration, McShane Bell Company sells and installs electric ringing systems and steel bell towers. Whether for the safe enjoyment of a much-loved bell, to improve the function or appearance of a weather-exposed bell, to accompany a rededication or anniversary celebration, or to display heritage bells in a curated environment, the team at McShane Bell Company continues their long heritage of bell repair and installation.
Cover image: Bellmakers stand among bells at the McShane Bell Foundry in Baltimore, Maryland. The company is now located in St. Louis, Missouri. Courtesy: Christopher Myers.
