The hand bell choir tradition enjoys a rich history in the English, Protestant faith dating back to the 17th century. Handbells were first created so Change Ringers, those who played the large bells in the church tower, would be able to practice and train without disturbing the citizens of their communities. Within a few years people began to see them as instruments in their own right, and by the 1830s the handbell choir tradition was transported to America. Now bell groups are common in churches across the globe, and ringers participate in competitions and conferences for all age and experience levels. Here at FUMC of Dothan we strive to continue this tradition of musical excellence in our ensembles.