(Lewis, Iowa) – Two families are offering a $5,000 cash reward for information that leads to the return of a church bell in Cass County. Drue Kirchhoff, with Southwest Iowa Tiling, in Griswold, says the bell was located in front of the United Congregational Methodist Church in Lewis.

The church bell has a long history of being in the area, but Kirchhoff wasn’t sure of its age.

The United Congregational Methodist Church of Lewis’ bell (file photo)

He believes the bell was made of cast iron, which is a hot commodity these days for its salvage value, especially when it’s included with other, heavy metals. He’s asking salvage yards to be on the lookout for the bell.

Kirchhoff, and Rob and Marlo Stamp with Stamp Construction, in Atlantic, are offering the reward for the return of the bell, no questions asked.

If you or someone you know has information that may help the Cass County Sheriff’s Office with their investigation, please call 712-243-2206.