Campaign Launched to Save Old South’s Steeple and Bell Tower in Reading

The  steeple and bell tower, a Reading landmark, has significant issues such as bug infestation and moisture problems. The steeple and bell tower will not stay standing unless they are repaired, so a campaign has been launched to save them.

"It's just been exposed to the elements for 100 years," said Co-Chairperson for the fundraising effort Suzy Axelson of the steeple and bell tower. "The beams under the bell are our particular concern." 

According to the American Steeple Co. of Salem, MA, the cost to fix the steeple and bell tower is $130,000. The Old South Church is not able to cover the costs, so they are reaching out to the community for help.

"One could argue that its steeple and bell tower, architectural features, which are at the same time beautiful and functional, are the symbol of our town. We can view it as you drive northbound on Main St., all the way from Route 128.  We all love hearing the bells chiming each hour," Axelson said. "Old South’s steeple and bell tower connect us to our past, remind us of those who came before us, and it also give us a time check as we drive through the Square."

According to Axelson, the church itself burned down in 1911 and a town wide campaign was launched to rebuild the church. Now, about 100 hundred years later, a town wide campaign is being launched to fix the steeple and bell tower.

Reading community members and Old South members are working together to get the steeple and bell tower fixed. The Reading Steeple and Bell Tower Preservation Fund has been created at  to make the repairs to the structure. 

If you are interested in donating, mail a check to: Reading Steeple and Bell Tower Preservation Fund, 6 Salem St., Reading, MA 01867 or donate online.