The Wesley Bell Ringer 2019 summer tour - Day 10 - Duxbury MA to Madison CT

The Wesley Bell Ringers had an incredible night in Duxbury MA.  It was tough to leave such a welcoming community, but on the road it was again....

Have you ever had a chance to see Plymouth Rock?  The 2019 Wesley Bell Ringers did today.  Plymouth MA is an impressive beach front community rich in history.   Plymouth Rock, well considering it was in 1600 that it was discovered, it isn't surprising that it is smaller in size than one might think.

There has to be at least ONE group photo a day during bell tour. 

Learning the history of Plymouth Rock

"It looks so much bigger on TV", says Holden

The choir had a quick lunch in Rhode Island to say that they had indeed spent time in Rhode Island & then it was off to YALE!  Thanks to Assistant Director, The Wesley Bell Ringers participated in a private tour & hands on time at the Yale Harkness bell Carillon.  A once in a lifetime (or tour time) chance to see some really amazing bells.  For you bell enthusiasts, here are the facts: 

• Harkness Tower: 216 feet, 284 steps to the roof
• The Carillon: 54 bells, pitched in B
• Total Weight: 43 tons
• Age of Bells: 10 bells were cast in 1921, the remainder in 1964
• Lowest bell: F♯ concert pitch, 13,400 pounds
• Highest bell: B concert pitch, 26 pounds

During the tour, the Wesley's not only got to hear the bells in action, they actually were invited to play the carillon.  This experience was incredible, emotional, & exciting for everyone.  After the tour, the choir & chaperones had some time to explore a bit of the Yale campus, including the bookstore where we all had the opportunity to feel like a member of the Yale community as we spent our money on Yale merchandise.  Back on the bus, the choir was polled to see who was now interested in Yale as a college choice, most of the hands were raised but quickly went down once the yearly tuition & acceptance rates were shared.  We all can dream, right?

Walking the quad at Yale

Thinking about college possibilities?!

Getting ready to climb the stairs to see the bells

Lewis & Theo....only 200 more stairs to go!

Don't look down, Molly

Playing the practice carillon at Yale

The Wesley Bell Ringers in the bell room at Yale

Barrett & Jacob thrilled at this opportunity

The view from the top

Learning about how the Yale bells work

An experience of a lifetime

As was this.  

The short trip to Madison CT did not provide the opportunity for a "bus nap" of which we have all begun to look forward to; however, it was nice to be able to see so much of these amazing New England states today!

First Congregational Church in Madison CT was constructed in 1707, this incredible church was yet another experience for The Wesley Bell Ringers to share their program so far east from Salt Lake City.

This photo doesn't even come close to reflecting the size of First Congregational Church in Madison CT

Fitting a quick practice in tonight. 

The choir & chaperone team are having an extraordinary trip.  Homesick, yes.  Missing friends, family, & pets back home, absolutely, but are loving every minute!  Thanks to everyone who has supported this group so far & throughout the year.  We appreciate you all!