Purdue Bell Tower
Purdue Bell Tower
On January 19, 1894, Purdue University dedicated Heavilon Hall, an engineering laboratory with a tower that soared above the modest skyline of the fledgling campus. Four days later, the structure lay in ruins, destroyed by explosion and fire. Amid the shock and tears of the disaster, Purdue President James Smart issued a rallying cry that crystallized the spirit of the University: "That tower shall go up one brick higher!"
It did go up again-- nine bricks higher, according to legend-- and the rebuilt Heavilon Hall and tower remained a campus landmark until they were razed in 1956.
The four bells from the rebuilt tower, which tolled the hours and class times for generations of Purdue students, fell silent for almost 40 years. The Heavilon Hall bells now ring again in the belfry above, reminding all who hear their joyous peals that our University will ever strive to build "one brick higher."
Dedicated October 14, 1995
Made possible with a leadership gift from the Class of 1948
Time capsule below to be opened in 2095 A.D.
Submitted by: Melissa McCurley