West Branch Times, West Branch, Iowa, Thursday, April 27, 1911
Transcribed by Sharon Elijah, May 10, 2018

WEST BRANCH HAS NEW FIRE BELL

        The fine, large fire bell placed in the tower of the City Hall this week it is hoped will prove a great improvement over the one that has done service for a number of years.

        The bell, which is a donation to the town, was purchased by small subscriptions collected through the efforts of members of the fire company from the citizens of the town and a number of farmers residing near our limits, is a good one, cost $185 and weighs 2985 pounds. It is probably the largest fire bell in the county, if not in several counties. When its silver tones ring out the dread alarm there’s no doubt it will be heard for many miles. The bell was tested yesterday and the boys were given a short practice drill, as well. The sounding qualities of the bell were pronounced satisfactory.