It is recorded in Sussex Archaeological Collections that in 1724 Jevington had 4 bells in the Saxon tower. Today there are just two. It is not known exactly when the bells were sold or to whom, but dates point to the period covered by the 60 year incumbency of the Rev Henry Grace 1812 - 1872, when the church was greatly neglected. He was Rector of Jevington but also Vicar of Westham where he resided.
The Large Bell
This is 32½ inches (82.5 cms) in diameter, weighing 6cwts, 2qtrs, 13lbs (324 kilos). It has no date or bell founder’s mark, which is normal for an early bell of this type. It bears the 3 marks below: The Royal Arms, Litlington Cross and the Brede Stamp. It is termed an 'Ancient Bell' of the Brede Group.
These bells date from 1470- 1487 and the Jevington bell has been dated 1480. It is inscribed “Sancta Katerina ora pro nobis”, 'Holy Catherine speak for us'. St Catherine is the saint to whom most bells are dedicated. In 1864 there were less than 100 such bells in the country and by 1915 only 7 existed in Sussex. So, the large bell at Jevington is a rarity and has been rung for over 500 years, without being re-cast.
The large bell
Interior of the large bell showing the clapper
The Bellframe
The bells hang in an oak bellframe designed to house three large bells. The frame consists of sills, kingposts and curved braces all mortised together and pegged. As such, the frame forms a complete medieval short-headed frame, which is basically in original condition and therefore a relatively rare survival. This identifies it as from the 15th century, the same period as the large bell. No doubt, when installed in the tower, three bells of this period were hung in it.
The bellframe
The Small Bell
The second bell is less than half the size of its larger companion, with a diameter of 14½ inches (36.8 cms). It was always thought to be a ship’s bell, possibly from a wreck along the Beachy Head coast. However, experts think it is more likely to be a Sanctus bell. It is inscribed: “W Gyles Captan, John Wood made me 1698".
The small bell
There is no record as to where Jevington’s other two bells went. There are two stories concerning the cart taking the bells away: One says the horses reached the end of Church Lane and one dropped dead. Another, that when they reached the ‘Eight Bells’, they refused to go further and an angel was seen hovering above them. Jevington has this rhyme concerning their bells: “Jevington folk are very proud people, They sold their bells to mend their steeple, And before they are left in the lurch, They would sell their steeple to mend their church.” There were never 8 Bells in the Jevington tower, as some people suggest. The type of change-ringing requiring this number of bells did not come about until a later period. So, although it is a nice thought, the ‘Eight Bells’ inn in the village did not get its name from the church bells and probably derives its name from the nautical 8 bells.
Following a specialist inspection in 2002, it was determined that the bells and the frame need restoration work. Sadly, it is not safe to ring them and so they have been silent for almost 5 years. Both bells are listed by the Council for the Care of Churches as being worthy of preservation. The Parochial Church Council now hopes to raise funds to enable the restoration work to go ahead.
If you would would like further details or to make a donation please Contact Us.