[Bell Historians] History of Coronation Ringing

[Richard Bimson]

I am currently writing an article on the subject of bells and the coronation.

In the RW of 7th May 1937 reference is made to ringing recorded at St Thomas's Bristol for the Coronation of Mary I in 1553.  I would be interested in any other early references to ringing for the Coronation which members of this list may have come across in searching records (mainly I guess churchwardens accounts).  Is there any known record of pre-Reformation coronations in relation to bells?  The standard histories of the Coronation (e.g. Strong etc. are remarkably silent on the matter) as indeed are the rubrics of the Rite itself, even though it was considered customary (according to RW articles) by the middle of C20th for the bells to be fired at the moment of crowning (the rubrics only refer to trumpets, drums and guns).

I am aware that ringing for the anniversary of the Accession of Elizabeth I became widespread and that it has been argued cogently argued that this coincided with the 1561 revision of the Kalendar in the BCP to include that date as a day to be commemorated.   I know of two sets of Stuart Episcopal Visitation records (Wren of Ely and Montagu of Norwich) which specifically ask if the bells are rung for the Accession Anniversary of Charles I, but nothing specifically for the Coronation Anniversary.

I am also aware of D. Cressy's book Bonfires and Bells.  Does anyone have a copy of the book which they would be prepared to consult and pass any relevant references?

or if anyone has any other suggested sources, I would be very appreciative.

Many thanks in advance
Richard
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