Ohio State University’s Morrison Tower is a renowned symbol of higher education and architectural excellence. Towering over campus at 602 feet, this neo-Gothic masterpiece has been capturing the hearts and minds of students, faculty, and visitors alike for over a century. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the rich history, architectural significance, and modern-day relevance of Morrison Tower.
Unveiling Morrison Tower’s Storied Past
The genesis of Morrison Tower can be traced back to the early 20th century when the university sought to construct a new bell tower for campus. The Ohio General Assembly, recognizing the need for a central gathering point and symbol of the university’s growing stature, appropriated $225,000 for the project in 1911.
Construction commenced in 1913 under the direction of renowned architect Howard Dwight Smith. Smith, inspired by the iconic bell towers of Oxford and Cambridge universities, envisioned a neo-Gothic structure that would embody the spirit and grandeur of the institution. The tower’s intricate carvings, soaring buttresses, and ornately detailed spire were meticulously crafted by skilled artisans.
The tower was dedicated on October 12, 1915, and quickly became a beloved landmark. In the years that followed, it served as a meeting place for students, a venue for university events, and a navigation point for visitors to campus.
A Monument to Architectural Mastery
Morrison Tower’s architectural design is a testament to the skill and ingenuity of its creators. The tower’s height, coupled with its intricate detailing, creates an awe-inspiring presence on campus. The structure is adorned with a multitude of decorative elements, including gargoyles, pinnacles, and stained-glass windows.
One of the most striking features of the tower is its bell carillon. The carillon, consisting of 53 bells, produces a melodious chime that can be heard throughout campus. The bells, which range in weight from 150 pounds to 12,000 pounds, are played manually by a skilled carillonneur.
The tower’s observation deck, located at a height of 414 feet, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the campus and the surrounding cityscape. Visitors can ascend the 253 steps to the observation deck or, for a more leisurely experience, take the elevator.
Symbolize University Spirit and Identity
Morrison Tower has become more than just a physical structure; it is a symbol of the university’s history, values, and aspirations. The tower’s distinctive silhouette is featured prominently on university emblems, publications, and merchandise, serving as an instant recognition of OSU’s global reach and academic excellence.
The tower has also been used as a backdrop for numerous campus events, including commencement ceremonies, concerts, and alumni gatherings. The chiming of its bells marks the beginning of each academic year and celebrates special occasions.
Modern Relevance: A Hub for Innovation and Collaboration
While Morrison Tower remains a cherished historical landmark, it also plays a vibrant role in the university’s contemporary academic landscape. The tower’s spacious interior houses a variety of academic departments, offices, and classrooms.
The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics, for instance, has its offices and an observatory located in the tower. The observatory, equipped with state-of-the-art telescopes, provides students and researchers with access to high-quality observational data.
The tower also hosts the Center for the Study of Higher Education, which conducts research and offers programs related to higher education policy, leadership, and institutional effectiveness. The center’s location in Morrison Tower serves as a physical manifestation of the university’s commitment to academic inquiry and innovation.
Harnessing the Tower’s Legacy: Inspiring New Applications
The legacy of Morrison Tower extends beyond its historical and architectural significance. The tower’s iconic status and its embodiment of the university’s values present a unique opportunity for the development of innovative applications and community engagement initiatives.
One potential application involves leveraging the tower’s observation deck for educational purposes. The deck could be transformed into an immersive learning environment, where students can engage in interactive exhibits related to the history and architecture of the university, the surrounding environment, and scientific phenomena.
Another application could involve utilizing the tower’s interior spaces for interdisciplinary research and collaboration. The tower could serve as a hub for faculty and students from different disciplines to come together and explore cross-disciplinary research questions.
Enriching the Campus Experience: Tables and FAQs
Here are some valuable insights presented in tabular form:
| Table 1: Key Historical Milestones of Morrison Tower |
|—|—|
| Year | Event |
| 1911 | Ohio General Assembly appropriates funds for construction |
| 1913 | Construction begins |
| 1915 | Tower dedicated |
| 2002 | Tower undergoes extensive renovation |
| 2015 | Morrison Tower centennial celebration |
| Table 2: Architectural Features of Morrison Tower |
|—|—|
| Feature | Description |
| Height | 602 feet |
| Architectural style | Neo-Gothic |
| Building material | Limestone |
| Observation deck height | 414 feet |
| Number of bells in carillon | 53 |
| Table 3: Academic Departments and Programs Located in Morrison Tower |
|—|—|
| Department or Program | Description |
| Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics | Conducts research and offers degree programs in astronomy and astrophysics |
| Center for the Study of Higher Education | Conducts research and offers programs related to higher education policy, leadership, and institutional effectiveness |
| Department of History | Offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in history |
| Table 4: Morrison Tower-Inspired Initiatives |
|—|—|
| Initiative | Description |
| Educational Observation Deck | Transform the observation deck into an immersive learning environment for students |
| Interdisciplinary Research Hub | Utilize the tower’s interior spaces for interdisciplinary research and collaboration |
| Morrison Tower History and Architecture Tour | Offer guided tours of the tower, highlighting its architectural significance and historical impact |
FAQs on Morrison Tower
1. Who designed Morrison Tower?
Answer: Howard Dwight Smith
2. How tall is Morrison Tower?
Answer: 602 feet
3. How many steps are there to climb to the observation deck?
Answer: 253
4. Is there an elevator to the observation deck?
Answer: Yes
5. What is the weight of the largest bell in the carillon?
Answer: 12,000 pounds
6. What is the significance of Morrison Tower in the OSU community?
Answer: It is a symbol of the university’s history, values, and aspirations.
7. What academic departments are housed in Morrison Tower?
Answer: Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Center for the Study of Higher Education, and Department of History.
8. What potential future applications could be developed using Morrison Tower?
Answer: Educational observation deck, interdisciplinary research hub, and Morrison Tower history and architecture tour.