TABLE OF
CONTENTS

MILLENNIUM CLOCK TOWER

IMPORTANT
INFORMATION

Looking for a way to usher in the new millennium, the Historic Valdese Foundation decided to erect a clock tower in the tradition of those found throughout Europe and, more specifically, Italy. They pored over designs and specifications for months, even taking trips to other communities and college campuses where similar towers had been erected. They wanted something that complemented the historical architectural style of Valdese and the Waldensian valleys in Italy.

The project was funded entirely by contributions generated through an extensive fund-raising campaign. Unlike other fund raisers, there were no car washes, auctions, or bake sales. Rather, the members of HVF appealed to the community's nostalgic and historical side. Donors who contributed in excess of $1,000 will have their names (or those they contributed in honor of) engraved on a plaque situated near the monument.

Standing in front of the Old Rock School (about two hundred feet from its originally planned site,) the clock tower can be seen nearly all the way down Main Street. The clocks on each of the four sides of the forty-eight foot tower are about three-and-one-half feet in diameter and an 800 pound bell chimes each hour.

Due to design issues, materials sourcing problems, and other delays, the tower was actually completed in the Spring of 2001, missing the original goal of chiming in the new millennium.

The Millennium Clock Tower was officially dedicated on August 11th, 2001 at the Waldensian Festival.

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