Memorial Campanile Tower – Lawrence, KS

Building History
The Memorial Campanile Tower at the University of Kansas was designed by architect and former KU student Homer F. Neville and dedicated in 1951 to honor the 277 KU alumni, students, faculty, and staff who lost their lives in World War II. Standing 120 feet tall and constructed from native Kansas limestone, the tower serves as both a landmark of remembrance and an enduring symbol of the university’s spirit.

Scope of Work
Mid-Continental Restoration was contracted to perform a full exterior masonry restoration of the Memorial Campanile Tower. The scope of work included caulking and sealant replacement, masonry cleaning, limestone repair and replacement, tuckpointing, and mortar joint repair. Every aspect of the project was carried out with a focus on preserving the historic integrity of the structure while improving its long-term durability.

Challenges and Solutions
Restoring a 120-foot-tall limestone tower presented logistical challenges in both access and preservation. The MCR team implemented specialized rigging and lift systems to safely reach all elevations of the tower while ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding campus. Close attention was given to matching the color, texture, and tooling of the original limestone and mortar to maintain architectural consistency. Collaboration with university representatives and preservation specialists ensured all restoration efforts honored the tower’s historical and memorial significance.

Results
The completed restoration revitalized one of the University of Kansas’s most iconic structures, reinforcing its strength and renewing its beauty for generations to come. Standing adjacent to the new David Booth Memorial Stadium, the Memorial Campanile Tower continues to honor the past—while standing tall in a new era of progress.