Just in time: Notable landmark to re-open for Georgia's first home game
A popular destination for Georgia fans following football wins, and other special occasions and accomplishments around campus is set to re-open this week.
The University of Georgia Chapel Bell, which sits on North Campus just off of downtown and near the Arch, has had “extensive repairs and maintenance.” It’s still closed, but a sign that hangs over the bell said it should be open on Saturday ahead of Georgia’s home opener against Murray State, according to the Athens Banner-Herald.
The Chapel Bell has been a popular place in recent years to celebrate the Bulldogs’ Rose Bowl win over Oklahoma, and in 2008 was reportedly restored after the Bulldogs won against Florida. UGA’s student newspaper reported that the bell was rung so many times after the victory that the bell’s yoke broke.
It’s not just football accomplishments. The bell is also rung for academic grades, graduation, weddings and other special occasions.
“The University of Georgia Chapel Bell was removed on Monday, May 20, for extensive repairs and maintenance,” UGA spokesman Greg Trevor said in a statement. “The Bell was last repaired in 2008. Chime Master of Lancaster, Ohio, came to campus to remove, crate and ship the Bell to its facility, where the work is being completed. Chime Master is scheduled to return the Bell to campus for reinstallation by early September.”