If you've ever looked closely at Beaumont Tower, you might’ve noticed something odd — it doesn’t have four matching spires. There's only one that rises higher than the rest. Most people don’t think twice about it, but there’s actually a really cool story behind that design choice.
The tower was built back in 1928–29 on the site of College Hall, the first building in America built for teaching scientific agriculture (which sadly collapsed in 1918). Beaumont Tower was meant to honor that legacy, and it quickly became one of the most iconic symbols of Michigan State’s campus.
But the architects didn’t just throw up a fancy bell tower and call it a day.
That One Tall Spire Means Something
The tallest point on Beaumont Tower — that single spire that shoots up just a bit higher than the rest — was built that way on purpose. According to MSU’s own historical archive:
“The tallest finial rises above the others as a symbol of ever greater aspirations for the University.”
Instead of keeping everything symmetrical and traditional like a typical cathedral or castle, the design sends a message: Michigan State is always reaching higher. We’re never done growing, improving, or learning.
More Than Just Bells and Bricks
Beyond the symbolism, Beaumont Tower is packed with history. It houses a 49-bell carillon that plays live music and the MSU alma mater every day. It’s also home to Tower Guard, the university’s oldest student organization, originally formed to assist visually impaired students.
Photo of Beaumont Tower by Roller Coaster Philosophy on Flickr, used under CC BY 2.0.
Info Source: https://onthebanks.msu.edu/Exhibit/162-567-17/beaumont-tower/
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