Helderberg, Somerset West, All Saints Anglican Church

Abstract

Somerset West, All Saints Anglican Church

The All Saints Anglican Church in Somerset West has a recent and attractive bell tower. The church building dates from the second half of last century. The bell tower is a totally detached brick building that seems particularly suited for bells.

Contrary to most bells in Anglican Churches, this bell does not come from a British founder but from Petit & Fritsen in the Netherlands. Most bells of this foundry are beautifully made and somewhat standardized.

Just below the shoulder is a delightful ornate band with angels playing musical instruments. Below it one reads the traditional text

+ A.D. 1971 + Petit & Fritsen Aeerle-Rixtel. Holland 5605 gelewerd deur Suid-Afrikaanse orrelbouwers (EDMS) Beperk. Silverton

Then again a decorative band with flower-type elements. Above the knee are five moulding wires. On the waist is a rather large emblem of the foundry. This shield shows among other elements a tree surrounded by three bells as we also encounter in bells from the German foundry Petit & Gebrüder Edelbrock.