Burton Memorial Tower, Ann Arbor

The Burton Memorial Tower is a clock tower located on Central Campus of the University of Michigan. Housing a grand carillon, the tower was built in 1936 as a memorial for University President Marion Leroy Burton. The grand carillon, one of only 23 in the world, is the world’s fourth heaviest, containing 55 bells and weighing a total of 43 tons.

The monument was constructed in 1935 and finished in 1936. It stands at 10 floors. It was used for housing education offices. The High-rise tower was designed in an interesting mixture of Art Deco and Art Moderne architectural styles, constructed with a reinforced concrete shell faced with limestone over a plan 42 feet square. The Burton Memorial Tower was designed by Albert Kahn, who also designed Clements Library, Angell Hall, and Hill Auditorium for the University of Michigan.

The carillon is played for half hour on weekdays at noon. The public may visit the tenth floor observation deck during and after the recitals to view the carillon. Visiting the tower is a fun activity for both adults and children. You can walk among the bells when they are playing. Be prepared to cover your ears. The observation desk also offers a panoramic view of the university campus and the city Ann Arbor.