The Story Behind the Bell Tower
The history of Purdue's Bell Tower dates back to over 100 years ago, even before the days that Neil Armstrong and Amelia Earhart walked on this very campus. The original bell tower was a part of Heavilon Hall, which was finally completed and dedicated on January 19, 1894. However the building, including the first bell tower, burned down only four days after the building's dedication. The university president at that time, James A. Smart, vowed to rebuild, "one brick higher". The replacement was dedicated in December of 1895. Both the clock and chimes for the second tower were installed April 8, 1896. Then, in 1956, Heavilon Hall, along with the bell second tower, was demolished. The original bells from the tower were put in storage after the demolition and kept there until 1995. In 1995 the construction of the current standing landmark began. The original bells were then given a home in the current bell tower.
(Photo: original bell tower and Heavilon Hall during 1894 fire)