What is the value of an 1886 school bell from Lakeside Foundry of Chicago?

Answer 1

Well, honey, that all depends on the condition, size, and historical significance of the bell. Generally speaking, an 1886 school bell from Lakeside Foundry of Chicago could fetch anywhere from a few hundred bucks to a couple grand for a real gem. But hey, if you've got one collecting dust in the attic, it's worth getting it appraised by a professional to get a more accurate value.

Answer 2

According to the American Bell Association International forum, this bell is probably worth $200-300, depending on condition.

Lakewood Foundry of Chicago was owned and operated in Erie, PA, by Montgomery Ward c.1904-1920. The foundry primarily made stoves and related cast iron parts. Bells bearing the Lakewood Foundry name are believed to have been manufactured by a third-party, but branded for sale through Wards, Sears and other retailers.

The origin of your bell is uncertain because Montgomery Ward prohibited foundries from including their mark on the product; however, if the words "crystal metal" are stamped anywhere on the bell, it may have been manufactured by C. S. Bell Co. of Hillsboro, Ohio. There were a huge number of foundries operating during the "iron age" that contracted each others services as needed. This makes tracing the foundry responsible for creating your bell difficult to impossible.

Answer 3

800