Maker's Story
Moen Bells
Moi, Norway
Founded in 1922
First produced by Tobias Moen in 1922 in the picturesque town of Moi, Norway. Moen bells are formed from iron sheets and coated with recycled brass from spent ammunition cartridges reclaimed from Norwegian military practice ranges. Initially used by farmers to locate their livestock grazing in the vast hills during summer months, the bells stood idle in winter months. As the farmers took to the hills to ski, they decided to bring the bells along to route each other on. Unknowingly they began the European tradition to cheer skiers on with the bells. In 2002, the bells became an American staple at the Salt Lake City Olympics. Whether cheering on athletes or milestone moments these iconic bells hold a place in history and continue to be made in Norway as they were over 100 years ago.

Images and Text: Independent Goods