The Catalina Chimes Tower Foundation was established to make sure that future generations will continue to experience the enchanting tones and the beautiful structure that Ada and William Wrigley Jr. built in 1925 as a gift to the citizens of Avalon. Since then the chimes have entertained millions and are now a fabric of island life.
Since its creation in 2015, the Chimes Tower Foundation has been hard at work refreshing and restoring its iconic building. After an initial extensive cleanup of the site by dedicated volunteers, the Foundation was able to tackle some important projects, such as the addition of decorative, hand-forged ironwork—including a fence along the front, and a new front door—which allow visitors to get a good look at the chimes mechanism inside the tower and enjoy the panoramic views of Avalon Harbor beyond.
The Foundation also installed a terracotta tile front entry, with stairs leading down to the keyboard and mechanical room; restored the original building exterior, including refurbished and refinished stucco, repair of the cornice, beautiful fresh paint, and cleaning and sealing the Catalina tile roof. The Foundation installed new exterior lighting, illuminating the tower after dark; and trimmed trees to improve views of the structure from town, as well as those from the building itself.
A lot has been accomplished, but there is much more to do—restoration of terrace walls, site drainage, landscaping design and installation, and a complete overhaul of the aging chimes mechanism, to name just a few of the upcoming projects that need funding.
In a special program set up for the month of December only, those who give $100 or more will receive a Chimes Tower Christmas ornament. Donors may wish to contribute “in honor of” or “in memory of” a friend, relative, or inspirational person and designate an honored recipient to receive a commemorative certificate from the foundation. Another way to support the Chimes Tower is to enter their raffle for a gorgeous handmade quilt by the talented Paris Rebl.
Tickets are available for $5 each or five for $20, and can be purchased on the events page of the Chimes Tower Foundation website, or at the Island Company reception desk. The drawing will be held on Dec. 11. Donations to the Catalina Chimes Tower Foundation can be made by check and mailed or by credit card on our website. For more information, visit www.CatalinaChimes.org.