Overstrand, Hemel-en-Aarde, Hermanus, Camphill Farm Centre

Abstract

Hemel-en-Aarde, Camphill Farm Centre. The Camphill Farm Centre is situated on the magnificent Hemel & Aarde road to the North of Hermanus. The centre is developed for handicapped people. In the central building at the far end of the farm one finds a yellow open tower that houses two bells with the larger of the two hanging on top of the other. The sight of two bells in the open air is not only unique but is also very attractive. We knew of the existence of the bells thanks to information previously provided by Colin Lewis, one of the founders. Unfortunately, due to their position up in the tower, it was not possible to get close to the bells. 1. Below the shoulder of the larger of the two bells, we notice two moulding wires with in between the reference to the founders: Eayre and Lewis 2004. This is followed by another set of two moulding wires. On the visual side and below the wires stands a text distributed over two lines but only partially readable:... And Ingrid + 2002 ……12-19. At the same height but on the reversed side of the bell stands in somewhat vague symbols, 1969 …Three moulding wires above the sound bow of the bell finish the decorations on the very well made bell. 2. Below the shoulder of the smaller of the two bells, we again notice two moulding wires with in between the reference to the founders:+ Eayre and Lewis + The reference to the founders is followed by another two moulding wires. Below them stands a line that again was only partially readable:… + Ruth + Peace in the valley …We could not get to the reversed side of the bell. Again three moulding wires above the sound bow finish the decorations on this equally well made bell. The founders Colin Lewis and Ray Eayre ran the Xmeco Foundry that was situated in Port Elizabeth for a number of years. Bells were cast on profiles that had been designed by Raymond M. Ayres. The larger of the bells weighs 177,5 kg and has a diameter of 62,5 cm, the other is 75 kg and has 47,5 cm as diameter.