Cathedral bells ring out for first time in 25 years

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. -- A familiar sound is returning to the nation's oldest city.

The bells in the towers of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine echoed across the city today for the first time in more than 25 years.

The Cathedral's clock is also working again.

"I can't tell you how many times I've been stopped and asked the question, "Why is the clock stuck at 12 o'clock?' Father Thomas Willis remarked.

The I.T. Verdin Company of Cincinnati refurbished the tower bells and clock.

The Cathedral wanted the renovations finished in time for the 450th celebration. The work ended much earlier.

A grant from the William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust helped pay for the refurbishing.

This Saturday, the Cathedral's four tower bells will ring a joyous peal at 2:30 p.m. to recognize the anniversary of the opening of the Hotel Ponce de Leon in 1888.

The four façade bells of the Cathedral are waiting to be hung. Father Willis says that should happen within a month or so.