Bellhanger

/ˈbɛlˌhæŋər/ noun

Definition

A person whose job is to install, repair, or maintain bells and bell-hanging equipment, particularly in churches and towers.

Etymology

From 'bell' + 'hanger' (one who hangs things). This occupational surname/term became common in medieval and early modern Europe when bell installation was specialized skilled work.

Kelly Says

Bellhangers were the original high-wire artists—they climbed church towers to install massive bronze bells, and a mistake meant either a broken bell or a broken neck, making it one of history's most dangerous trades.

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