Between 1924 and 1928, the Virginia General Assembly acted to create a World War Memorial Commission and build a lasting memorial to the heroic efforts of Virginia's World War I servicemen and servicewomen. The City donated a building site in Byrd Park. The War Memorial Carillon is 240 feet high and The Carillon instrument was built by John Taylor Bell Founders of England. The Carillon Tower originally carried sixty-six bells, but played fifty-three notes - the top thirteen notes had duplicate bells in an unsuccessful effort to produce a louder sound. When the carillon was renovated in the early 1970's, the thirty-four bells which played the highest twenty-one notes were recast into twenty-one new bells with thicker profiles than the originals, producing a better sound. Now there are fifty-three bells for fifty-three notes. Carillon concerts are usually played on veteran-related holidays (Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, Flag Day and Labor Day) and a spring series of concerts have been funded in the past by the Civic Associations. Memorial concerts may be arranged by calling (804) 646-1437. After World War II, the nationally acclaimed Christmas pageant, "The Nativity," has been presented each December 23 at 7 pm on the steps of the Carillon. The performance is free, open to the public and draws thousands each year. The first floor is used for wedding receptions, parties, meetings and art displays. The Carillon is a "magical" place and it is our hope and desire that the building continue to serve the citizens of Richmond and the Commonwealth for years to come. To make reservations, or for additional information, please call our scheduling office at (804) 646-0036, 646-0037, or 646-0761. The maximum capacity is 300 people. One side of the Carillon can comfortably hold 12 round tables (if needed, it is possible to squeeze up to 15 tables). If using the department's chairs, 8 - 9 people can sit at a table. If renting standard folding chairs, 10 people can sit at a table.

Between 1924 and 1928, the Virginia General Assembly acted to create a World War Memorial Commission and build a lasting memorial to the heroic efforts of Virginia's World War I servicemen and servicewomen. The City donated a building site in Byrd Park. The War Memorial Carillon is 240 feet high and The Carillon instrument was built by John Taylor Bell Founders of England. The Carillon Tower origi... more

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