It’s not hard to see if you know where to look. Mahanay Memorial Carillon Tower at 100 E Lincoln Way in Jefferson has an observation deck that’s 120 feet in the air. This 14-story tower offers the most amazing views of the surrounding Iowa countryside.
In 1962, the Mahanays’ family attorney found plans for a Jefferson bell tower and a will that provided a location, and financing for the structure.
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook “This Tower and Chimes, Erected to the Glory of God, are Gifts to the Citizens of Jefferson, Iowa, by Mr. and Mrs. W.F. Mahanay.”
The carillon tower has 47 bells and the citizens of Jefferson get to enjoy frequent concerts.
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook This unique landmark sets Jefferson apart.
In 2007, Paul Nally bequeathed the Bell Tower Community Foundation $175,000 to enhance the Mahanay Memorial Carillon Tower.
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook His donation began the process of raising funds for the “Let the Bells Ring” campaign. The original 14 bell chime is now a 4-octave 47-bell carillon.
Musicians can play the carillon during the tower tunes live concert series.
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook Becky Greiner will play the 47-bell Carillon after the 5:30 pm tree lighting event at Thomas Jefferson Gardens on December 7th.
Views from the tower are beautiful any time of year.
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook You can even rent the tower for a private lunch with friends.
The Mahanay Memorial Carillon Tower has hosted several weddings.
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook The observation deck is air conditioned and heated throughout the year.
For a day to remember, travel to the small Iowa town of Jefferson.
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook
The Mahanay Bell Tower’s normal seasonal hours are between 10 am and 4 pm on weekends only in May, September, and October. The tower is open daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day from 10 am until 4 pm or by appointment. Simply call 515-386-2155.
Mahanay Bell Tower/Facebook
“This Tower and Chimes, Erected to the Glory of God, are Gifts to the Citizens of Jefferson, Iowa, by Mr. and Mrs. W.F. Mahanay.”
This unique landmark sets Jefferson apart.
His donation began the process of raising funds for the “Let the Bells Ring” campaign. The original 14 bell chime is now a 4-octave 47-bell carillon.
Becky Greiner will play the 47-bell Carillon after the 5:30 pm tree lighting event at Thomas Jefferson Gardens on December 7th.
You can even rent the tower for a private lunch with friends.
The observation deck is air conditioned and heated throughout the year.
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