Church Steeples in History

Growing up as a third generation steeplejack I was always fascinated by church steeples. Often the highest point within a city they were meant to declare Jesus as Lord over that community. But due to their “presence” they often became important landmarks and frequently found themselves a part of the city’s history. Coming from Boston I remember school field trips to a couple of these historic churches:

1. The Old North Church: On December 16, 1773, a group of American colonists protested British taxation by throwing tea into the Boston Harbor. Legend has it that the signal for the start of the Boston Tea Party was given by the ringing of the Old North Church’s steeple bell. Then again on April 18, 1775 the church found itself a part of history when, from the same steeple, two famous lanterns declared the British were coming by sea.

2. Bunker Hill Monument: During the American Revolutionary War, the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought near the town of Charlestown, Massachusetts. The steeple of the town’s church, now known as the Bunker Hill Monument, served as a lookout point for the American soldiers.

Perhaps your church hasn’t found it’s place in our nations history but it is has an important place in your community and it’s our pleasure to help maintain, repair and restore these sacred structures.