ATHENS — The Georgia Bulldogs are expected to triumph in their football season opener Saturday — but the ringing of the Chapel Bell that has marked victories for more than a century will remain silent.
The Chapel Bell, perched on the University of Georgia’s North Campus near The Arch, is out of service after rot was discovered in its wooden support beams, according to a university spokesperson. Engineers will examine the structure next week and develop a plan for repairs.
Originally used to call students to class, the bell’s first documented football celebration came after Georgia’s 10-8 win over rival Auburn in 1894.
Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC
Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC
The Red & Black, UGA’s student newspaper, described the scene after the victory:
“The people of Athens awaited the arrival of the party at the Athens depot with a brass band and plenty of enthusiasm. Merchants opened their stores and told the boys to help themselves to boxes. Soon a large bonfire lighted up the campus, the college (bell) rang on the night air and the college yell was heard on every hand. The night had far spent itself when the last echo of the bell was heard and the dying embers of the great bonfire was all that was left to remind the passer by that the great day was over. Georgia had triumphed!”
No. 5 Georgia hosts Marshall on Saturday at Sanford Stadium, part of a home schedule that features top 10 matchups against Alabama and Texas.
The Chapel Bell traditionally rings for hours after Bulldog victories, sometimes well past midnight for wins over rivals and ranked opponents.
It will remain silent for an extended period, and the area around the bell will be fenced off.
The university has not yet provided an estimated timeline for repairs.
About the Author
Keep Reading
The Latest
Featured
