John Bell Presentation Bell for the Bell & Everett Club
Newark, New Jersey, August 17, 1860
Height: 10 inches
 
A hand-painted iron presentation bell with turned wooden handle, created in support of the Constitutional Union Party presidential ticket of John Bell and Edward Everett during the presidential election of 1860. Painted in patriotic bands of red, white, and blue, the bell bears the hand-painted presentation inscription: "Presented August 17, 1860 by the Newark Club, to the New Brunswick Bell & Everett Club," accompanied by a painted bell motif. Intended for use in political processions and campaign rallies, the bell remains fully functional, producing a clear, resonant tone.
 
Political marching clubs were among the most visible expressions of nineteenth-century electioneering, and Bell supporters frequently styled themselves "Bell Ringers," embracing the natural symbolism of their candidate's surname. Presentation bells identifying both the presenting organization and recipient club are considerably scarcer than most surviving campaign artifacts and provide a tangible record of local political organization during one of the most consequential presidential elections in American history.
 
Condition: Expected age and handling wear to the painted surface with scattered losses and light fading to the inscription, which remains legible. Retains an attractive surface and produces a strong, resonant ring.