A Gateway to Campus Tradition
Located in the plaza south of Morrow Library, the Thornburg Bell commemorates one of Marshall University’s most recognizable campus sounds: the Thornburg Carillon. Surrounded by benches, gardens, walkways, and mature trees, the bell serves as both a gathering place and a reminder of the gift that brought the sound of carillon bells to campus.
The Thornburg Carillon
The Thornburg Bell commemorates the gift from C.I. and Marie Thornburg that enabled the installation of the carillon in Morrow Library. Dedicated on October 29, 1983, the carillon consists of sixteen bronze bells housed in the library’s cupola. The bells were cast by the renowned Paccard Foundry in Annecy, France, with the largest weighing nearly half a ton.
Unlike traditional clock towers, the carillon is operated electronically. The bells sound the hour and half hour throughout the day. During the holiday season they have traditionally been programmed to play Christmas music across campus.
The idea for a campus carillon originated with former Marshall president Dr. Robert B. Hayes, who envisioned bells pealing across the university grounds. C.I. and Marie Thornburg helped bring that vision to life through their gift to the university during 1982-83.
At the carillon’s dedication, Marshall Foundation Executive Director Dr. Bernard Queen predicted that the Thornburg Carillon would become part of Marshall’s campus heritage alongside beloved landmarks such as Old Main, the Memorial Fountain, and the Marshall Beech Tree. More than four decades later, the bells continue to mark the passage of time for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
The Commemorative Bell
At the center of the plaza stands a cast bronze bell bearing the inscription:
Marshall University honors
C.I. and Marie A. Thornburg
who contributed the cast bronze carillon bells
Anno Domini 1982-83
Paccard, Annecy, France
The bell serves as a permanent tribute to the Thornburg family’s contribution and to the carillon that continues to mark the passage of time on campus.
A Place to Pause
Today, the Thornburg Bell Plaza provides a quiet place to sit, study, or enjoy the landscape surrounding Morrow Library. Benches, seasonal plantings, and mature trees create an inviting outdoor space in the heart of campus.
Visitors who stop at the plaza can appreciate not only the beauty of the arboretum, but also the traditions and philanthropy that continue to shape Marshall University.
Learn More
- A Guide to Marshall University Landmarks by Jack Dickinson (2014)
- Marshall News Release, October-December 1983
Quick Facts
Name: Thornburg Bell
Location: Plaza south of Morrow Library
Installed: 1982-83
Honors: C.I. and Marie A. Thornburg
Related Landmark: Thornburg Carillon (Morrow Library Carillon Bells)
Carillon Dedicated: October 29, 1983
Carillon Bells: 16 cast bronze bells
Bell Foundry: Paccard Foundry, Annecy, France
Largest Bell Weight: Nearly 1,000 pounds
Operation: Electronic automatic and manual control
Seasonal Tradition: Christmas music played during the holiday season