The historic George Street School bell has been reinstalled at the Lochiel Kiwanis Community Centre in Sarnia, after going missing in July.
The 145-year-old bell, which holds significant local heritage value, had been on display at 180 College Avenue North as part of a monument commemorating the former George Street School and its first principal, Alexander Wark.
Sarnia Police launched an investigation following the theft and were able to recover the bell with only minor damage to its top supporting ring. It remains the only surviving artifact from George Street School, which was demolished in 1938.
The reinstallation was completed by Babcock Welding, with Paul Babcock Jr. overseeing the work—a notable connection, as the original installation had been handled by his father, Paul Babcock Sr.
The Kiwanis Community Centre expressed appreciation to Babcock Welding for their assistance, noting the significance of having this historical item back in its place for the community.
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