From the spring 1989 issue of UNO Today

BELLS ARE A 'RINGIN

 

"I sing, I ring,

I peal with a mighty force

My love for God, Family and Country."

Margre Henningson Durham

 

By Tim Fitzgerald

That inscription now hangs over the center of the University of Nebraska at Omaha campus on one of the 47 bells in the new Henningson Memorial Campanile. The 168-foot structure was dedicated May 18 in ceremonies surrounding the structure and its plaza-garden area. It was donated by Mrs. Durham in memory of her father, mother and sister, Henning H. Henningson, Rose P. Henningson and Helen Henningson Grimes, respectively.

 

"This campanile is a reflection of my parents' and sister's loyalty to this community in so many ways," said Mrs. Durham. "My sister attended the Municipal University of Omaha; my mother loved music, and my father, although he was born in Iowa, was proud of living in Omaha."

 

UNO Chancellor Del Weber said the University is deeply grateful to Margre and Chuck Durham for their support to the campus.

 

"This strikingly beautiful centerpiece for our campus provides a lasting symbol of this University's coming of age," said Weber. "For generations of future students, this remarkable monument will endure as a symbol of their college years, and its bells, we trust, will echo throughout their lives, reminding them of this time and this place, and of the generosity that made such memories possible."

 

The bells of the tower's carillon already are familiar on campus as they toll the time, greet and congratulate students. In addition to the Westminster Chimes, they are played weekly and at special events such as commencement ceremonies.