Blog: City Blog

Market Square Bell History -- No Longer a Mystery!

If you have ever puzzled over the large, old bell mounted on a brick pedestal at the south end of Market Square, you are not alone. Since its installation in 2005, many people have wondered about its history and its connection to downtown Knoxville. Well, wonder no more!

A new plaque affixed to the base of the pedestal tells the story of the 132-year-old bell, from its commission by Knoxville City Council in 1883 through its service during World War II to its refurbishment in 2005. Next time you're on the Square, give it a look.

The plaque was commissioned by the Central Business Improvement District and installed by a City Public Service crew. It is also partly a tribute to Norris Dryer, the longtime local musician, broadcaster and political activist who died last fall. He had made the installation of a plaque at the bell something of a personal mission. You can read Jack Neely's tribute to Norris Dryer here.

Plaque on Market House Bell

Posted by On 04 June, 2015 at 3:42 PM