“An 80-foot-tall what?” I once heard a student ask about the Kessler Campanile. The answer is more fascinating than you might think. The Kessler Campanile at Georgia Tech is more than just a landmark. It’s a symbol of the university’s spirit and ingenuity.
Originally constructed for the 1996 Olympic Games, the Kessler Campanile has become an iconic part of Georgia Tech. It is located near the center of campus. It stands proudly in front of the student center. Its unique design and rich history make it a must-see for anyone visiting the campus.
The Kessler Campanile is named after Richard C. Kessler. He is a Tech graduate and former head of Days Inns. Students affectionately call it “The Shaft”. This is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the school’s difficult curriculum.
Designed by artist Richard Hill, the Kessler Campanile has a distinctive appearance. Hill graduated from the University of Georgia. The structure resembles a twisted obelisk. It tapers towards the top and is capped with a pyramidal piece. It is made of 244 stainless steel plates. Each plate is slightly rotated to create a swirling pattern.
Georgia Tech alumnus Vic Williams created the CAD drawings for the Kessler Campanile. Jim O’kon, also a Georgia Tech alumnus, designed the structural engineering. The peaks intentionally mirror the design of Tech Tower. Tech Tower is the school’s oldest building.
The Kessler Campanile can play several songs. These include “Ramblin’ Wreck from Georgia Tech”. The fight song plays through specially designed speakers. These speakers reproduce the carillon “chime” sound of bells. It once played the Westminster Quarters. That marked the passing of time. However, it has been silent since 2009.
The area around the Kessler Campanile has been improved. The surrounding plaza, fountain, and amphitheater have been reconfigured. This was part of the Campus Center construction and renovation project. Students wanted to keep the water feature. The project team listened.
One of the most noticeable changes is the fountain’s zero-entry feature. As you enter, the water gradually rises to a height of 6 to 8 inches. During hot Atlanta days, you can walk barefoot and cool off. The fountain also has 12 water jets with LED lighting. This creates a lively nighttime atmosphere.
The fountain can be drained for campus events. This offers more flexibility in a space known for campus traditions. Landscape and hardscape changes have improved accessibility. The Kessler Campanile plaza connects naturally to the Campus Center.
The Kessler Campanile served as the centerpiece for athletes during the 1996 Olympic Games. The Kessler Campanile spire was even used in the Institute’s logo for over 25 years.
So, the next time you see the Kessler Campanile, remember its story. It is a tale of art, engineering, and the enduring spirit of Georgia Tech. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation. It is a symbol that resonates with students, alumni, and visitors alike.