December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2022
After the United States’ entrance into World War I, it was believed that the current fleet of vessels that American maritime services were boasting would not be sufficient enough to sustain US troops overseas, especially with the threat of German U-Boats. In response to German strategic advantages, American turned to production in order to out produce the Central Powers. The result were contracts placed by the United States Shipping Board for over 1000 wooden ships and barges. Despite the contracts, only 589 of these ships were completed including the Berela, which was built by Dierks-Blodgett and delivered in 1918, towards the end of the war. The Berela experienced a short service life, as it aided in supply shipments at the end of World War I through the occupation period and was scrapped in 1924, as there was a surplus of these ships since so many were produced for a cause that ended quickly. Although the Berela was scrapped almost 100 years ago, its bell was saved and carries the ship’s legacy, as well as the legacy of all of the other ships which carried out the same mission. The bell is constructed of heavy brass or bronze and has an approximate diameter of 14”, and an approximate height of 13”. The front is marked “BERELA / 1918” and the bell is complete with its original bronze clapper, top nut and washer. CONDITION: The bell retains its original nickel plating and features appropriate oxidation to the interior. Surface rust around the top from a previous mounting bracket (not present). Clapper also exhibits appropriate oxidation/patina. A very nice example of WWI and maritime history.
Condition: (Excellent).
Paperwork
Build information