On the corner of Franklin and Ninth stands the Bell Tower—strong and steadfast. It has stood there since it was built in 1824. It was used as a guard house and warned people of any fires. During the Civil War, the bell was sounded whenever Federal troops were spotted nearing the city. It has served as an office to a Governor and to the Capitol Square Preservation Council. Now, it houses the Visitor Center for Virginia Tourism.
Sadly, I could not see the inside of the building 🙁 It was closed for the holiday. It stands on a beautifully landscaped lot which also houses the Capitol Building and a large monument to Washington.
