2021 Gumbo final - Book - Page 132
132
memorial tower
S
tanding at 175 feet tall and taking 176 steps
to reach the top, LSU’s Memorial Tower is a
clock tower at the center of campus. It stands
as a memorial to those who died in World War I, and was
originally erected in 1923. The tower was also heavily
influenced by designer and architect Jerry Campbell.
Currently, the tower is undergoing renovations led
by Assistant Vice President of Planning, Design, and
Construction Roger Husser and Director of Capital Projects
Paul Favaloro.
“The Tower is the symbol of LSU, both in what it is and
what it represents.” Husser said. “Although we have many
other buildings that need full restoration, there is no other
restoration project we have done, or will do, that I am
prouder of.”
This project restored the building’s history and original
purpose as a memorial for those Louisianans who died
defending our country in WW1. The Tower will now also
house the new LSU Military Museum representing all those
with LSU ties who served and died for the same cause.
“Being a part of the legacy of this building, which is most
recognized as LSU, and for what it represents is extremely
rewarding for me personally.” Favaloro stated.
The construction took place in several phases. The initial
phase of renovations, which was the overall refurbishment of
the tower itself, started in 2018 and was completed in March
2020.
“We basically stripped out the entire interiors and
rebuilt the facility it to its original state while updating its
mechanical, electrical and plumbing components,” Favaloro
said, “ADA accessibility was added along with new walls,
windows, roofing, lighting, millwork, HVAC, and restrooms
as well as a complete refurbishment of its exterior skin or
aggregate finish.”
Designer Jerry Campbell had a passion for LSU and
especially for this project, according to Favaloro. He took a
strong position in keeping with the authentic elements of the
original building in his design.
Campbell lost his battle with cancer before he could see
the opening of this facility. Favaloro said he had a passion for
LSU and the memorial tower, and LSU was fortunate to have
such a talented, dedicated, and passionate individual on this
project.
“You can see the fruits of his research and his attention to
detail in the millwork, ornamental wall grills, light fixtures,
and unique LSU labeled door hardware that was installed,”
Favaloro said, “His design continues this tradition of building
architecture and preserves its historic relevance.”
The second phase was the refurbishment of the plaza
which started in February 2020 and was completed in
October 2020. Favaloro stated that the remaining phase
which is currently underway is the actual museum displays,
which is expected to be finished by May 2021.