HODGDON, Maine — A missing 1898 church steeple bell that is bolted to a concrete slab, allegedly stolen from the Hodgdon United Methodist Church earlier this month, suddenly reappeared, according to police.
Notice of the alleged theft came into Maine State Police on Dec.14. The last time anyone saw the beloved bell at its location in front of the church at 244 Hodgdon Mill Road was on Dec. 11, said Shannon Moss, spokesperson for the Maine Department of Public Safety.
The bell was bolted on a concrete slab on the ground and was dragged away, Moss said. Detectives investigated the case.
But last week, church officials told state police the bell was returned and they did not want it investigated any further, she said.
Pastor Victor Han could not be reached by phone or email on Wednesday regarding the bell’s return.
In a Dec. 15 blog post, Han said the sudden loss of the bell felt like something precious had been torn away from the church community.
“Our hearts are still aching. And naturally, we ask, “Why?” he said.
The historic bell was removed from the steeple last year after a leak was discovered. But because it is part of the church community’s identity, it has been displayed as a memorial in front of the church, Han said.
