The bell of the Polluce steamship

Villain Fils foundry, Le Havre, 1839, bronze

The Polluce steamship bell bears the original name of the steamship.

The following inscription is written in capital letters on the bell: '1839 POLLUX VILLAIN FILS AINE FONDEUR AU HAVRE'.

The tradition of ship’s bells dates back to the period of sail ships, when the bell was usually placed near the central quarterdeck. The main function of the bell was to mark time and to regulate activity on board.

Even today, ship bells are still used as a unique symbol of the identity of the ship.