San Francisco Made W.T Garratt Bronze Bell Model 1917

Print Previous Next

San Francisco Made W.T Garratt Bronze Bell Model 1917

A large bronze, probably ship's bell made by the storied W. T. Garratt Machine Works & Bell Foundry Company of San Francisco, probably for a San Francisco Bay ferry in 1917. The bell is mounted on the remains of a wooden yoke. The W.T. Garratt Company of San Francisco was founded in 1850 on Clay Street, but moved twice due to fires, and by 1866 was at the corner of Fremont and Natomas Streets in San Francisco. The foundry was the primary foundry in the Western United States, making everything from fire hydrants and bells to stamp molds for coins. The Garratt Company made bells for virtually every ship launched in or near San Francisco Bay, including at Mare Island. According to the consignor, this bell was used on one of the largest of San Francisco Bay Ferries, which would accord with the date on the bell. The bell has raised lettering near the top, one side reading "W.T. GARRATT & CO.," and the other side reading "S.F. CAL. 1917." Size: 24 inches tall and 34 inches wide at the yoke. Shipping to be arranged.

Provenance:By family tradition to have been used on the Benicia-Martinez ferry.

Condition:

The bell's clapper is not present. The bell itself is in excellent condition. The yoke from which it is suspended is in poor condition, and has breakage and damage at both ends.

Array
(
    [live_biddable] => 
    [inquire] => 
    [phone] => 
    [phone_bid] => 0
    [sold] => 1
    [unsold] => 
    [make_offer] => 
    [estimate] => 1
    [timer] => 
    [current_bid] => 
    [asking_bid] => 
    [start_price] => 
    [buy_it_now_price] => 
    [bid_activity] => 
    [bid] => 
    [high_timed_bid] => 
    [purchase] => 
    [following] => 
)

Estimate: $1,000 - $2,500

Price Realized Including Buyer's Premium

$1,840

05/07/2023

Have a Similar Item?

Consign With Us

Witherell strives to provide as much information and photographs as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Condition statements are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Witherell. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms and Conditions. Methods of payment are cash, check, money orders, or wire transfer for foreign payments. Please note we do not accept credit cards. This auction has a buyer's premium of 15%.

ANTIQUE WEAPONS AND WESTERN AMERICANA

San Francisco Made W.T Garratt Bronze Bell Model 1917