The history of bellringers & bellringing - Ringing Societies

The first diocese conferences held in Norwich in October 1870 and October 1872 may have inspired the formation of the Association. An initial meeting arranged by enthusiasts had been held in Ipswich in 1876, but it was not until the 10th February 1877 at a meeting held in Norwich that it was resolved 'to form an Association for the Promotion of Change Ringing and Belfry Reform through the Diocese'. The setting up of an Association was subsequently completed at a meeting on 4th April at which the officers were appointed. It is interesting there was not a single competent bell ringer among those initially appointed with the officers comprised of the clergy, local Members of Parliament and other local persons of standing.
Following the passing of The Additional Bishopries Bill in 1913, the Norwich Diocese was divided. Following the First World War (1914-1918) this led to changes in the Association's title and controversy among certain members. This led to a split with the Suffolk Diocesan Association being created in 1920 as a separate entity, before it was subsequently re-named the Suffolk Diocesan Guild in October 1923.
After the split with the Suffolk Diocesan Guild the society reverted to its original title of the Norwich Diocesan Guild of Ringers. For further details see the Ringing World (1st April 1977, pages 261 to 268). [Research and observations associated with the Council Library Certificates Collection by Chris Ridley.]

founded 1877
Formerly: Norwich Scholars
Norwich Diocesan & Ipswich Association (1919-1920)
Norwich & Ipswich Association for the Diocese of Norwich and Archdeaconry of Suffolk (1920-1922)
Norwich, St Edmundsbury & Ipswich Association (1922-1923) [Research and observations associated with the Council Library Badge Collection by Chris Ridley.]