"Bells of Peace" National World War I Armistice Commemoration

The Historical Society of Rockland County Invites You to Join Us for

"Bells of Peace": A National Commemoration of the World War I Armistice

When: Sunday, November 11, 2018, 10:45 am (bell ringing at 11 am)
Where: The grounds of the HSRC, 20 Zukor Road, New City
Price: $FREE

At 11 am on November 11, 2018, exactly one hundred years after the end of fighting on the Western Front in World War I, bells across the United States will ring together as part of the special commemoration "Bells of Peace." The Historical Society of Rockland County is participating in "Bells of Peace" to honor the 116,516 American men and women who died in World War I.

"No state sacrificed more for the war than New York. More than 500,000 New Yorkers served - that's 12.5 percent of the 4 million U.S. troops," said Susan Deeks, the HSRC's Executive Director. Of the 13,956 New Yorkers who lost their lives fighting for their country, nearly 3,000 were Rocklanders. Eighty-four never returned home. "It is appropriate to commemorate this important centennial, and tolling bells is a fitting tribute. We're pleased to be part of this effort and hope that Rocklanders will join us in tolling bells throughout the county."

"Bells of Peace," coordinated by the World War I Centennial Commission, was conceived and designed in collaboration with the nation's veterans of service with the Honor Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Bells will be tolled in communities across the nation - in places of worship, schools, town halls, public carillons, and cemeteries - to mark the centennial of the Armistice that brought an end to hostilities in what Americans fervently hoped was the "War to End All Wars." The nationwide program is designed to honor those American men and women who served one hundred years ago by providing a solemn reminder of their sacrifice and of the service of veterans of all wars.

All are welcome to gather at the History Center at 10:45 am for the bell tolling at 11 am sharp. The event will conclude at approximately 11:15 am.

For additional information about, and tools to conduct, "Bells of Peace" and other meaningful commemorations of the World War I veterans' service, visit the World War I Centennial Commission website at www.ww1cc.org/bells.

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In April-September 2018, the HSRC's ROCKLAND VOICES featured "Remembering World War I." To view the virtual exhibition, click here.