News Summary
The NC State Memorial Belltower has finally been completed, featuring 55 bells and a carillon. It will be dedicated as Henry Square during a celebration on May 14. The project honors alumni who served in World War I, having been first proposed in 1920. The installation of bells completes its historical significance, reviving its intent as a memorial and creating a new gathering space for the university community.
Raleigh, North Carolina – The long-awaited completion of the NC State Memorial Belltower has been announced, marking a significant milestone in the university’s history. The tower, now adorned with a total of 55 bells and featuring a carillon, will be officially dedicated as Henry Square during a celebration event scheduled for May 14 at 2:30 PM.
Historical Background and Project Evolution
The NC State Memorial Belltower was first proposed in 1920 as a tribute to alumni who lost their lives during World War I. The design and construction of the tower were initiated shortly thereafter, with major progress made in the 1930s. In the subsequent decade, additional elements were added in the 1940s, though the tower was completed without any bells due to funding shortages at the time.
Originally, the tower’s name reflected its purpose as a memorial. However, because of financial constraints caused by the small size of the initial alumni base—primarily farmers—and challenges posed by the Great Depression and two world wars, the project remained incomplete for many decades.
Revival of the Belltower and Addition of Bells
The concept of fitting the tower with actual bells was revived in 2010 by university students. This new initiative initiated a lengthy process of fundraising, planning, and construction efforts. After many years of work, the project culminated in the installation of a set of 55 bells inside the tower, transforming it into a functioning carillon—a musical instrument that harmonizes the bells.
This development marked the first time in its history that the belltower was equipped with real bells, fulfilling the original intent of its early designers and restoring its status as a meaningful memorial.
Contributions and Dedication
The successful completion of the belltower was made possible through significant donations, notably from Bill and Frances Henry. Their financial contributions played a crucial role in realizing the project and installing the bells. In recognition of their generosity, the area surrounding the belltower has been designated as Henry Square, offering a dedicated space for reflection and campus events.
Upcoming Celebrations and Significance
The upcoming event on May 14 will serve both as a celebration of the project’s completion and as an official dedication of Henry Square. The ceremony promises to highlight the historical significance of the memorial, celebrate the addition of the bells, and honor those who have contributed to the project over the years.
This achievement revives the original vision behind the tower and adds a vibrant new feature to the university landscape, blending historical remembrance with musical artistry.
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Additional Resources
- Center Square: NC State Belltower Completion Announcement
- Wikipedia: NC State University
- News Observer: NC State Education News
- Google Search: NC State Belltower
- CBS17: NC State Belltower Vandalism
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Campanology
- ABC11: NC State Belltower Bells Installed
- Google News: Memorial Belltower
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
