1950s The Campanile, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa

Picture yourself on the sprawling, tree-lined campus of Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, on a crisp autumn afternoon. Rising majestically in the center is the Stanton Memorial Carillon, commonly called the Campanile, a tall, slender bell tower that reaches 110 feet into the clear blue sky. The warm reddish-brown brick gleams in the sunlight, and a large circular white clock is set about two-thirds of the way up, its hands frozen in time on the postcard. At the top, a series of arched openings reveal the bells within, crowned by a pointed copper roof that has aged to a soft green, with decorative spires marking each corner.

The campus grounds around the tower are alive with the colors of fall. To your right, a tree is ablaze with vibrant oranges and golds, while to your left, deep green trees provide a rich, contrasting backdrop. A wide lawn stretches before the tower, dotted with fallen leaves that crunch softly underfoot, and long shadows from the trees stretch across the grass in the gentle late-afternoon light.

This image conveys both serenity and tradition. For over 125 years, the Campanile’s bells have chimed across the campus, and students partake in the beloved “Campaniling” tradition, believing one isn’t a true Iowa Stater until kissed beneath the tower at midnight. The overall scene feels stately and timeless, celebrating a cherished symbol of memory, learning, and campus life.

Published by The Hamilton Photo Co., Ames, Iowa, and printed in Plastichrome by Colourpicture Publishers, Inc., Boston 15, Massachusetts, U.S.A.

This would look great framed or make an excellent addition to any collection.

Love it ♡
Get it ☆
Get Lucky 💋 Vintage