News

2023 Mahanay Bell Tower Birthday Party

News Release: 

The dedication of the Mahanay Bell Tower took place 57 years ago on October 16, 1966, and each year it is a time to celebrate. This year, the Tower will be open from 10 am – 2 pm with free admission for all. 

The Foundation would like to particularly invite local employers to send their employees over the lunch break to experience the Tower.  More than 50% of the visitors are from out of town and many locals haven’t heard the story, listened to the bells, and seen the rooftop art and spectacular view from the Paul Nally Observation Deck. The Mahanay Bell Tower was named the 2021 Rural Iowa Attraction of the Year.   

A Tower Tunes Live Birthday Concert will be played on Monday, Oct. 16, from 12:15 – 12:30 pm. A local Mahanay Maestro will perform favorite music on the carillon for the community to enjoy.

Visitors and residents are asked to celebrate by posting pictures with the Tower in the background.  #HBD1966 and #experiencejefferson are two hashtags that could be used.

The Mahanay Bell Tower has transitioned to October 2023 regular hours of Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm.  In 2023, youth age 18 and younger can tour the Tower at no charge courtesy of the Victor Zike Trust and Rosalene (Kay) Zike Trust.  Adult admission is $5.  

Visitors may also schedule an appointment by calling the Jefferson Matters office at 515-386-2155.