Discover the Netherlands Carillon
The Netherlands Carillon, situated between Arlington National Cemetery and the Marine Corps War Memorial in Washington, D.C., is a lasting symbol of the enduring friendship between the Netherlands and the United States.
But what is a Carillon?
A Carillon is a musical instrument typically installed at the top of a tower. It must be composed of at least 23 Carillon bells and connected to a keyboard in a room below. The smaller bells are played by hand on the keyboard and the larger bells are operated by the foot pedal. Some Carillons even have electric mechanisms that operate them. The main thing that marks a Carillon is that the bells are arranged in a chromatic sequence, which has been tuned to produce concordant harmony when many bells are sounded together.
Design and Features of the Netherlands Carillon
The Carillon
The Netherlands Carillon in particular, houses a remarkable 53-bell carillon. These bells were all crafted with a bronze alloy composed of roughly 80% copper and 20% tin. They range from eight inches to nearly seven feet in diameter, creating a harmonious symphony that resonates across the Potomac River, reaching Washington, D.C.
Originally, the carillon had 49 bells cast jointly by three prominent Dutch bell foundries: Van Bergen, Royal Eijsbouts, and Petit & Fritsen, between 1952 and 1953. These bells range significantly in size, with the largest bell, or bourdon, weighing 12,654 pounds, and the smallest weighing just 35 pounds. Each bell bears an emblem representing different sectors of Dutch society, and poetic verses by Ben van Eysselsteijn.
The Tower
The tower that houses the Netherlands Carillon is a towering 127-foot campanile and is an open steel structure reinforced with steel plates and finished with a bronze baked-enamel. Designed by Dutch architect Joost W. C. Boks, the structure has modernist design principles, distancing itself from classical European architecture associated with fascist regimes of the time. This tower includes a quartzite plaza surrounded by a low lava stone wall and features two bronze lions designed by Dutch sculptor Paul Philip Koning, symbolizing the Dutch royal family.
Inside the tower, a rectangular staircase leads visitors to an observation deck at 60 feet, with a spiral staircase ascending further to a second observatory at 83 feet. The playing cabin for the carillon is located at this higher level, providing an ideal location for carillonists to perform.
Grounds
The Netherlands Carillon is situated on a 93 square-foot plaza, surrounded by landscaped gardens. Each year, ten thousand tulips are planted in these gardens, highlighting the cultural significance of tulips to the Netherlands.
In addition to tulips, the gardens feature a variety of perennials and annuals, creating a colorful landscape throughout the year. The surrounding grounds, enhanced by Lady Bird Johnson's Beautification Program, also include musical note-shaped flower gardens and a horseshoe of trees.
Gifting the Netherlands Carillon
The Netherlands Carillon was a heartfelt gift from the Dutch people to the United States, expressing gratitude for the American support during World War II and the subsequent economic aid. An initial presentation was made in 1952 by Queen Juliana to President Truman, it was to symbolize the carillon that was to come. The carillon was then officially dedicated on May 5, 1960, coinciding with the 15th anniversary of the Netherlands' liberation from Nazi occupation.
From Inception to Dedication
The idea for this grand gesture originated in the early 1950s when Dutch government official G. L. Verheul proposed a gift to symbolize Dutch-American friendship. A nationwide fundraising campaign in the Netherlands garnered enthusiastic support, culminating in the creation of the carillon.
Initially, the 49 bells were installed in a temporary structure in West Potomac Park. It wasn't until 1960 that the permanent tower was constructed slightly North of the Arlington National Cemetery, providing a fitting home for the bells. Today one of the nicest places to view the carillon, is just across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia, where it is perched on a hill overlooking the Lincoln Memorial.
Renovating the Netherlands Carillon
Mid-1990s Renovation
Weather and the hands of time took their toll on the Netherlands Carillon, leading to significant restoration efforts. In 1995, on the 50th anniversary of Dutch Liberation Day, a major renovation was undertaken and a 50th bell was added. This bell, inscribed with "freedom" and "friendship" along with the years 1945 and 1995, was cast by Royal Eijsbouts and is pitched two semitones higher than the lightest of the original bells.
As part of the renovations the other bells were transported back to the Netherlands for repairs, and the tower underwent structural enhancements. This project restored the carillon to its former glory, ensuring its continued function as a symbol of Dutch-American friendship.
Recent Renovations and a Grand Carillon
More recently, in 2019, another round of extensive renovations commenced. The National Park Service and the Royal Netherlands Embassy, along with other partners, spearheaded this initiative.
The project involved the removal, cleaning, and replacement of all exterior panels, and the addition of three new bells dedicated to significant figures: Eleanor Roosevelt, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Secretary George C. Marshall, bringing the total to 53 bells. These enhancements elevated the instrument to "grand carillon" status and the carillon's conversion to concert pitch, enhancing its musical range and resonance.
The Netherlands Carrilon was then rededicated on May 5, 2022, with a Freedom Concert marking its reopening. Today, the carillon is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
Things to Do at the Netherlands Carillon
Carillon Concerts
Naturally, the Netherlands Carillon is renowned for its musical performances, offering both automated and live concerts. Automated concerts feature the Westminster Quarters chiming every 15 minutes, with musical medleys played twice a day as well. These include the anthems of the United States armed forces, the Dutch national anthem "Wilhelmus," and the American national anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner."
During the summer months, live concerts are held on select Saturday evenings. Guest carillonneurs from around the world perform a variety of musical styles, including jazz, pop, and patriotic music. These concerts, held from 6:00 to 7:00 pm, offer visitors a unique cultural experience against a stunning backdrop of Washington, D.C.
Special Events
Special performances are scheduled on significant dates such as Dutch Liberation Day (May 5) and other important anniversaries. Additionally, during June, July, and August, director-carillonist Edward Nassor organizes weekly recitals featuring international carillonists. The National Park Service's website provides a detailed schedule of these concerts ahead of the season.
Automated Concert Schedule
- Daily: Westminster Quarters chime every 15 minutes from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Noon and 6:00 pm: Musical medleys, including armed forces anthems and national anthems
Live Concerts
- Dates: Throughout June, July, August, September and October.
- Time: 6:00 - 7:00 pm
- Activities: Park Rangers offer kids' activities from 5:30 - 7:00 pm.
Visitors can enjoy these concerts free of charge, making them an excellent activity for families and music enthusiasts alike.
Visiting the Carillon
Managed by the National Park Service as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway complex, the carillon is open year-round from 6 am to midnight. There are no entrance fees for visiting the Netherlands Carillon.
Visitor Center and Services
Although there is no dedicated visitor center at the carillon, visitors can obtain information, brochures, maps, and National Park Passport stamps at the headquarters and ranger contact stations at nearby Arlington House, Glen Echo Park, and Great Falls Park.
Pet Policy
Pets are welcome in the park but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring they do not disturb park resources. Pets are not allowed inside historic homes, visitor centers, or on ranger-led programs, with the exception of service animals.
Explore Beyond the Netherlands Carillon with CityDays
While the Netherlands Carillon is a must-visit landmark, there's much more to explore in Washington, D.C., and beyond. At CityDays, we offer engaging scavenger and treasure hunt tours, perfect for team-building exercises and adventures.
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