'Turnback Tuesday' ringing bells to usher in the new year

Turnback Tuesday is ringing those bells, used to announce the arrival of an event, activity or occasion. 

They toll in good times and in bad times. They ring out warnings, ring in the New Year, or announce the union of two people. 

Bell ringing can be traced to pagan winter celebrations or to scare away evil spirits. Bell ringing became popular over time and was incorporated into other activities and events as a way to bring people together. 

This is a postcard from the [Derby Public] Library’s collection.

Thanks goes to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting history each week.