This is MOST LIKELY a vintage school bell, but it could have had many other uses.  7 1/2" tall, the wooden handle fits well in the hand and the bell is not too heavy to handle.  The clapper is original. 

This bell is highly patinaed, showing it was used!  The sound is loud and pleasant!  I did not shine it up as I know collectors usually want it in the original condition.  The finish on the outside of the bell itself is black; note the shaft of the bell is higher where the handle is attached.  Quite a nice bell!

My mother used to call us in to dinner with a bell similar to this!