John Bell, the owner of the Bell Harp, was already in Ireland before 1812, working as a landscape painter and showing an interest in Irish antiquities. By 1815, he had opened over 60 different cairns and was known for his involvement in arranging exhibitions showcasing Irish history. For example, he played a role in organizing the Collection of Antiquities exhibited during the British Association for the Advancement of Science's meeting in Belfast in 1852.