Capitol District in Richmond, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
The Bell Tower
Photographed By Kevin W., January 3, 2008
1. The Bell Tower Marker
This tower was built in 1824, on the site of a frame building. It long served as a guard house for the State Guard.
The bell was a fire alarm and was also rung in emergencies. In 1861-1865 it was used to call out local defenders, notably on April 21, 1861 (Pawnee Sunday) and on February 7, 1864.
Tower restored by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Bell donated by the Commonwealth Chapter, N.S.D.A.R.
Erected 1933 by Commonwealth Chapter, N.S.D.A.R.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Military • Notable Buildings • War, US Civil. In addition, it is included in the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Historic Bells series lists. A significant historical month for this entry is February 1839.
Location. This marker has been replaced by another marker nearby. It was located near 37° 32.339′ N, 77° 26.119′ W. Marker was in Richmond, Virginia. It was in the Capitol District. Marker could be reached from the intersection of North 9th Street and E. Franklin Street, on the right when traveling north. The marker is on the east face of The Bell Tower, which is located in the Capitol Square. The Bell Tower is currently
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. A different marker also named The Bell Tower (a few steps from this marker); Mantle (a few steps from this marker); Anna Maria Lane (a few steps from this marker); Edgar Allen Poe (within shouting distance of this marker); Voices from the Garden (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also named Voices from the Garden (about 300 feet away); Zero Milestone (about 400 feet away); Richmond Evacuation Fire (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Richmond.
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. This marker has been replaced with the linked marker which has different text.
Additional commentary.
1. About the bell
As the c.1908 photo shows, the original bell was removed sometime prior to that year. It is rumored that it may have been moved to a fire station as an alarm bell, but its actual disposition is unknown. The bell shown in the newer photos was donated at the time the plaque was installed (1933); its actual origin is unknown.
— Submitted August 26, 
2020, by Carl Scott Zimmerman of Kirkwood, Missouri.
Photographed By Kevin W., January 3, 2008
2. The Bell Tower and Marker
Photographed By Kevin W., January 3, 2008
3. The Bell Tower and Marker
Photographed By Tuck & Sons, circa 1908
4. Old Bell Tower, Richmond, Va.
VCU Libraries Digital Collections - Rarely Seen Richmond
Credits. This page was last revised on February 19, 2023. It was originally submitted on January 8, 2008, by Kevin W. of Stafford, Virginia. This page has been viewed 1,285 times since then and 31 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on January 8, 2008, by Kevin W. of Stafford, Virginia. 4. submitted on May 10, 2012, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia.
