The cornerstone of the Bell Tower was laid on November 11, 1921 (Veterans Day), and, after many delays brought on by the Great Depression and World War II, the monument was dedicated on the same day in... The cornerstone of the Bell Tower was laid on November 11, 1921 (Veterans Day), and, after many delays brought on by the Great Depression and World War II, the monument was dedicated on the same day in 1949. Carroll Lamb Mann (Mann Hall) spearheaded the construction of the tower for almost 30 years. The Tower is a monument to the 33 alumni killed while fighting during World War I. Another name was erroneously added to the memorial plaque. It was later altered to represent unknown soldiers.