Comments on: Pearl Binder At The Whitechapel Bell Foundry

By: Nicola Johnson

Nicola Johnson — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 19:31:57 +0000

This was a fascinating article, beautifully written. This foundry so deserves a second chance.

By: Gary Arber

Gary Arber — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 18:27:17 +0000

I have just typed my one out,
All hands to the pump
Gary

By: Sonia Murray

Sonia Murray — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 16:35:57 +0000

Thank you for a fascinating article. London is over-endowed with boutique hotels; the foundry is unique, highlighting an ancient trade and the skills of the craftsmen who made Big Ben and so many other chimes that ring out over the city. It is an invaluable part of our nation’s heritage and most certainly should be preserved.

By: stephanie Janet pemberton

stephanie Janet pemberton — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 15:14:21 +0000

As much noted, a very emotive topic as recently outlined in the Architect’s Journal: https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/31/44-architects-submits-plans-for-contentious-whitechapel-bell-foundry-scheme/10039736.article . I went to the last public discussion at the Foundry several months ago and spoke with both sides.

I have an emotional attachment to the site as well as a reverence for the history and space. I Went on one of the last tours, having visited the museum/shop for several years whilst son had treatment at the hospital up the road. Last year I had a bell engraved for a much missed friend.

By: Paul Loften

Paul Loften — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 12:23:57 +0000

What an incredible history ! I cant quite believe that the foundry has closed and they are discussing putting a boutique hotel in its place. Any loccal authority with a pinch of imagination and enterprise and perhaps a soupcon of regard for history should be able to see that a fortune could be made from restoring the foundry as it was . Not only from the uniqueness of the trade but as a draw to visitors from around the world. The Bell Foundry is a one off that cant be replaced!.We do not need a boutiqiue hotel . We do need trade, enterprise and imagination to face the worrying challenges of Brexit I have written my letter of objection . I hope that Tower Hamlets Council pay attention to all the voices of protest.

By: Laura Williamson

Laura Williamson — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 10:51:26 +0000

A superb piece by Pearl Binder, a fascinating woman who was clearly as talented a writer as she was an artist. I’m sure I won’t be the only one moved by the picture of Tom Kimber spending his evenings meticulously and lovingly preserving the armorial bearings and inscriptions- what a great gift to the future.

Thank you Pearl and thank you Tom, and thanks to the many others whose stories became part of the fabric of this remarkable place.

By: Di Corry

Di Corry — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 10:13:37 +0000

What an amazing account by Pearl Binder reminding us all why we must do our utmost to save this unique and much loved building for use as a Foundry. Tower Hamlets Planners now have an opportunity to ensure that ‘half a century hence’ bells can once again be returned to be re-tuned by a new generation of skilled craftsmen/women who have been given the opportunity of serving an apprenticeship here.

By: Richard Pascoe

Richard Pascoe — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 09:53:39 +0000

Good morning everyone
Interesting description and story of the Foundry by ‘ Pearl ‘
Come on everybody , only 600 letters !
Well done GA !!

By: Jill Wilson

Jill Wilson — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 07:53:05 +0000

Fascinating to read more about the actual process of bell founding and to learn a new word – strickle, and the etymology of pot-hole.

I will continue to get the word out to as many people as possible – the foundry must be saved!