What the tower means to Sig Eps
"The Sower" on Beaumont Tower reads, "Whatsoever a man soweth." Which literally means you get out of something what you put in. This is something we as Sig Eps strongly believe in and live by.
The Towers History
Beaumont Tower, built in 1928, was a gift from John W. Beaumont, an 1882
graduate of Michigan State. The tower stands on what once was once the
northeast corner of the Old College Hall, which was the original building of
Michigan Agricultural College. In its shadow, students have rallied in protest,
political candidates have delivered promises, and college sweethearts have
pledged their devotion. The one hundred four foot tower has five floors with a
stairway which winds its way to the top level where its forty seven bells,
weighing a combined total of sixty tons, are located.
The Beaumont's generosity stemmed from a dream they shared to express
their appreciation for the highly influential education and lasting memories he
received from the prestigious faculty and staff.
After nearly 50 years of contemplating the dream, the Beaumonts decided to
donate a memorial bell tower. The tower was to stand on the site of the
previous Old College Hall - the first college of agriculture in the world.
With the natural setting, the sower above the entrance and each chime, it was
hoped that the memorial tower would restore Old College Hall memories and
be a source of inspiration to future generations.
Facts About Beaumont Tower
The sculpture of the sower on the Tower is an Art Deco bas-relief by Lee
Lawrie.
The Tower's architectural style is Collegiate-Gothic.
There is an old MSU tradition that one does not become a true Spartan until
one has been kissed in the Tower's shadow.
The extended northeast corner at the peak of the Tower is referred to as "the
finger of God."
For 38 years, Wendell Westcott delighted Spartans with daily performances
of the Tower's melodious bells.
In 1987, the bells were silenced due to the Tower's weather-worn edifice.
In 1996, the Tower underwent reconstruction of its carillon and weathered
structure.
On May 5, 1996, during a rededication ceremony, the bells chimed again for
the first time in nine years.
The rededication ceremony was broadcast around the world via the Internet.
If you have any questions or comments please contact
the webmaster at sigep@msu.edu
This site was updated 08/23/2000
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