A piece of New Brunswick’s church heritage has been partly recovered, although in a poor state. Fredericton police discovered a section of a large and heavy bell from St. Peter’s Anglican Church destroyed in a ditch following a tip from the public, as per a statement on the force’s Facebook page. The historic bell, which was secured at ground level at the church on Woodstock Road, was stolen in the early hours of December 29.
The bell has roots tracing back to England before the Loyalists’ arrival in New Brunswick, and it was marked in 1825. Ross Hebb, the former minister of the church, mentioned that the police informed him on Friday about the retrieval of a portion of the bell for examination.
Hebb expressed hope that the police would locate the missing parts of the bell in better condition. He conveyed his disappointment over the incident, describing it as a sorrowful and perplexing event for the parish and society. Hebb expressed a desire for those accountable for the theft to be identified and face consequences.
As the investigation continues, Hebb awaits further developments on the potential restoration of the bell, depending on costs and decisions on its future display. The recovered portion has not been seen by Hebb, who relies on a picture circulating on social media. He emphasized the importance of expert assistance and financial support for any potential salvage operations.