The bronze bell from the la Petite Versailles plantation, located in St. James Parish, is a historical artefact with important information about its origin and age. It is marked "VANDUZEN & TIFT CINCINNATI // BUCKEYE BELL FOUNDRY 1877." This indicates that the bell was produced by the Buckeye Bell Foundry in Cincinnati in 1877, making it over 140 years old.

Buckeye Bell Foundry was one of the most significant bell foundries in the United States during the 19th century, and it produced a vast number of bells for a variety of purposes, including schools, churches, and plantations. The foundry was established in 1837 and was active until 1894 when it closed.

La Petite Versailles plantation was a significant sugar cane plantation in St. James Parish during the antebellum period. The plantation was established in 1790 and produced sugar actively until the late 1800s. The bronze bell was most likely used to signal the beginning and end of workdays, meals, and other important events at the plantation.

In addition to its historical significance, the bronze bell has artistic value. Bronze is a durable and malleable metal used centuries to create decorative objects, including bells. The bronze bell from the la Petite Versailles plantation features intricate patterns and designs, making it a beautiful example of bronze bell craftsmanship from the 19th century.