The idea of erecting a bell tower on the University of North Carolina campus was originally suggested by John Motley Morehead III in the 1920s, but it was denied several times by the University because of conflicts regarding the location.

When the idea was finally approved, the construction began with the funding of two sponsors, Morehead and Rufus Lenoir Patterson Jr.

[2] The tower was dedicated and received by Governor Oliver Max Gardner on Thanksgiving Day of 1931 with an acceptance address.

[4] The names of prominent figures in the University history, Governor John Motley Morehead and William Lenoir, are inscribed on the two largest bells.

In addition, the bells play other songs or the alma mater as part of University celebrations or holidays.