Gary is the proud owner of two sets of rump bells (made between 1809 and 1826) inscribed with Barton's initials. Rump bells are short straps of large bells worn over the horse's flanks.
William and Abner Bevin were Barton apprentices who started their own factory in 1824. Later, two more brothers, Chauncey and Philo, joined the company, and in 1868 it took the name Bevin Brothers Manufacturing Company. Gary says that even though the company made other products, their specialty was sleigh bells. In 1972, Stanley Bevin, representing the sixth generation of the family, took over the business.
"By the end of World War II, only four bell manufacturers remained in business," Gary says. "They were the Starr Brothers Bell Company; N.N. Hill Brass Company; Gong Bell Company; and Bevin Brothers. Gong was known for its production of an acorn-shaped bell made by Ezra Cone after the Civil War. Nearly all initialed bells can be traced to the East Hampton manufacturers."
If he finds an original strap of jingle bells, Gary likes to leave them intact.
"I don't take the bells off," he says. "I'll take Neat's foot oil (which penetrates the leather) and do everything I can to save it."
Collectors are divided on restoration efforts.
"There is a great debate among collectors across the country about shine or patina for bells," Gary says.
"Some like them one way, and some another. I don't think there's a right or wrong. I like to find the old original patina. I have compounds to clean dirt and grime, but not disturb the patina."
In his display room, one wall is covered with more than 60 complete straps of jingle bells. Some are original; some he's put together with old and new materials. The room also contains an extensive display of saddle chimes, neatly mounted on handmade, custom designed stands. Saddle chimes, first patented in 1863, are arched frames holding three or more open bells that were mounted on the back pad or saddle. There are many designs, some ornate.