Law enforcement returns the Manzanita School Bell to the school with Clark Stowe (right). Photo courtesy of Manzanita School

MANZANITA, CA (MPG) - Late last week, the Manzanita Community got great news – the historical Manzanita School Bell had been found.

The 156-year-old bell that once hung in the old Manzanita School building’s belltower had been installed in front of the school as a tribute to the rich history of the school, its alumni and community.

In November 2021, the bell was stolen. Video footage of the theft circulated in the communities and was provided to law enforcement, but the community demanded more action. Gridley and Manzanita area individuals pooled funds together as a reward for the bells return, with the understanding that if the bell could not be recovered the money would go to help purchase a replacement.

Despite that and search efforts, the bell remained missing.

Three years later, a local citizen that prefers to remain unnamed, tipped the school on possible whereabouts of the stolen piece of history. With the help of Sutter County District Attorney’s Office, Yuba County Sheriff’s Office and Butte County Sheriff’s Office, the Manzanita School Bell was found and returned to its home last week.

In a letter to the community posted on Facebook Friday, Sept. 13, Manzanita School’s Principal and Superintendent, Joe Lodigiani said, “Today we have great news to celebrate! Our Manzanita Elementary School bell is back!” he continues, “The bell was the original schoolhouse bell dating back to 1868. On October 6, 1968, the Butte County Historical Society commemorated it with a plaque. Unfortunately, as many of you are aware, the bell was stolen from our school on November 17, 2021. For over 150 years the bell had welcomed our students each morning.”

On behalf of the school, Mr. Lodigiani concluded with, “We are thrilled to have our bell back on campus and extremely thankful for the support of our community members and local law enforcement agencies.”

At this time, it is unclear if there have been any arrests made in connection with the theft.