Stone by stone, Mueller Tower reclaims its glory

Restoration of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's iconic Mueller Tower is nearing completion.

Crews have begun reinstalling the limestone bricks on the outside of the bell tower, and that work is about halfway done. Jennifer Pleake, a project manager with Facilities Planning and Capital Programs, said estimated completion for the project is April.

“It’s a significant piece on our campus and highly recognized,” she said. “People have a strong draw to it.”

Work began last May. Along with replacing the exterior limestone, the project has included new steel supports for the stones, new mortar where needed throughout the structure, new screens around the top and a new door. Workers will also install a new sound system for the bell tower.

Crews removed and catalogued about 1,700 stones. Some were replaced with stone from the same quarry — the Salem deposit in Indiana — as the original limestone.

Pleake said recent milder weather has allowed for the project to move forward more quickly than anticipated.

She said she is looking forward to the return of the campus landmark with a refreshed appearance.

“Instead of demolishing and building something new, it’s nice to see we still appreciate our older monuments on campus,” she said. “Instead of trying to remove them or change them, we’re trying to restore it back to its original state.”

The tower was built in 1949 through a gift from alumnus and electronics pioneer Ralph Mueller.

Jordan Opp | University Communication and Marketing