Borough staff moving the bell from the Star of Bengal into a display case
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 4, 2026
City and Borough of Wrangell Completes Historic Star of Bengal Bell Preservation Project
WRANGELL, ALASKA — The City and Borough of Wrangell is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Star of Bengal Bell Preservation Project, an effort to preserve an important piece of Southeast Alaska's maritime history for future generations.
The Star of Bengal, which tragically sank in 1908, remains an important part of Alaska's maritime heritage. The preservation of its historic bell provides an opportunity to honor this history and ensure that its story continues to be shared with residents and visitors alike.
The Borough extends its appreciation to the National Park Service for its support through the Historic Preservation Fund, which helped make this project possible. The project was also made possible through the dedication of local volunteers and individuals committed to preserving Wrangell's history.
Underwater photo of the bell from the Star of Bengal wreckage. Photo taken by Gig Decker
Several important milestones were accomplished through this project:
Historical Research and Preservation: Historian Ronan Rooney contributed his historical expertise to the project, helping ensure the bell's significance and connection to Alaska's maritime history were recognized throughout the preservation effort.
Volunteer Project Coordination: Volunteer Gig Decker played a central role in coordinating the project, dedicating his time and effort to managing the work necessary to bring the preservation effort to completion. His commitment was instrumental in the project's success.
Transportation and Community Support: Alaska Airlines assisted with shipping the historic bell, providing valuable support toward the successful completion of the project.
Preserving Community Heritage: The completed project helps safeguard an important historic artifact and provides an opportunity for future generations to learn about the maritime history of Wrangell and Southeast Alaska.
The successful completion of this project represents another step in the Borough's ongoing commitment to protecting local history. Through partnerships, grant funding, and the generosity of volunteers, important artifacts like the Star of Bengal bell can be preserved and appreciated for generations to come.
118th Anniversary of the Star of Bengal Symposium
Funding Disclaimer
This project was produced with assistance from the Historic Preservation Fund, administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of the Interior or the National Park Service.
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