Burton Memorial Tower, Bell tower at University of Michigan, US
Burton Memorial Tower is a bell tower at the University of Michigan featuring a square limestone facade and rising approximately 65 meters tall. Inside are offices, classrooms, and a large carillon made up of individual bells that can be played from a keyboard.
Construction began in 1935 as a memorial to a former University president and was completed in 1936. Architect Albert Kahn designed the structure, adding his architectural vision to the campus.
The tower is named after a former University president and stands as a recognizable landmark on campus. Daily bell music fills the air and has become part of student life and campus traditions.
The tenth floor has an observation deck open to visitors during carillon performances, offering views across the campus and surrounding area. Timing your visit around scheduled bell concerts gives you the full experience of the space.
The tower houses two separate musical systems working together: one plays automated quarter-hour chimes while the other is played by hand from a keyboard. This combination creates a layered soundscape that changes throughout the day.
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