2003

Century Fund Donates New Carillon For Muhlenberg College's Miller Tower

Thanks to a generous donation by the Century Fund, Muhlenberg College has a new, digital, electronic carillon. The carillon will replace the old carillon in the Haas College Center’s Miller Tower.

 Monday, August 4, 2003 10:42 AM

Thanks to a generous donation by the Century Fund, Muhlenberg College has a new, digital, electronic carillon. The carillon will replace the old carillon in the Haas College Center’s Miller Tower.

The new Schulmerich “Generation IV Tyme Stryke Electronic Carillon System” is similar to those installed at the Air Force Academy and Arlington National Cemetery. It is digital with no moving parts, and it recreates the true sound of cast bells. In addition, it is fully programmable.

With the new system, the bells will continue to toll each hour on the hour. The chimes will play Gaudeamus Igitur at noon, seven days each week. Each evening, Monday through Friday, the chimes will play the college’s Alma Mater. Also, special bell tollings can be programmed to commemorate special events, such as September 11.

The carillon bells were originally installed in 1960. They were a gift of the Miller family in memory of David A. Miller, a member of the Class of 1894. The old carillon operated with piano rolls. It is no longer manufactured and repair parts are no longer available.

Founded in 1848, Muhlenberg College is a private, Lutheran-affiliated, highly selective, liberal arts college in Allentown, Pa.