Metropolis Fire Chief Micah Tolbert – The History of the East End Fire Bell – WMOK 8.22.24

(WMOK) Metropolis, IL – Chief Tolbert discusses what’s been known as “the East End Fire Bell” with WMOK and the fire department’s recent restoration project on the bell.

Chief Tolbert advised that the restoration of the bell has been a long time in the making and it is a project that’s been on his “to-do list” before retiring.

Chief Tolbert advised that the bell was originally on the USS George Cowling in the early 1900s.  When that vessel sank the bell was resurrected and was a gift to the city of Metropolis.  It was placed at the East End Fire Station remaining operational until the 70s.  

The bell has been at the Civitan/Lincoln Park on East 5th Street for decades.  

Chief Tolbert told WMOK that the bell has been sandblasted and restored and the base has been built.  The restorer of the bell will install the bell on the stand and a plaque will be ordered.

Tolbert told WMOK that the bell has now been restored and will be placed in their current station with the original engine that operated in the East End.

WMOK Previous Coverage on the Topic of Lincoln / Civitan Park:

Oct 19, 2023 WMOK Begins to Sort out the Metropolis Lincoln / Civitan Park on East 5th Street – the unfolding topic: Audio, Video and more within

Nov 17, 2023 WMOK Begins to Sort out the Lincoln / Civitan Park on East 5th Street in Metropolis – the unfolding topic: Audio, Video and more within

May 14, 2024 Metropolis City Council Meeting 05/13/24 – Tyson Appointed to Metropolis Library Board of Trustees, Lincoln Civitan Park will Remain with Potential Improvements and more

Jul 29, 2024 Future of Civitan / Lincoln Park Under Consideration