Storke Tower

Storke Tower is a concrete structure approximately 175 feet tall located on the University of California Santa Barbara campus that rises prominently from the academic grounds. The building houses a carillon system with 61 bells and offices for student media operations including the campus radio station and yearbook production facilities.

The tower was completed in 1969 and funded by Thomas M. Storke, a former publisher of a local newspaper and a United States Senator. This patronage connected the structure to mid-20th century philanthropic support for the expanding university.

The carillon bells chime regularly throughout the day, creating an auditory landmark that marks time for students and visitors across campus. These sounds have become part of the daily rhythm of university life and connect people through a shared acoustic experience.

The tower sits in a central location on campus and is visible from many places, making it easy to use as an orientation point or meeting spot. Access to the interior is limited as the building primarily serves university staff and students rather than the general public.

Until 2005, military cadets used the tower's concrete exterior walls as a training site for rappelling exercises in challenging conditions. This unusual application demonstrates how the structure served purposes beyond its original design.

Location: Santa Barbara County

GPS coordinates: 34.41260,-119.84800

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:26