The Soundtrack of Avalon Since 1925
For nearly a century, the Catalina Chimes Tower has filled Avalon with music, marking time across the harbor and becoming one of the island’s most beloved traditions.

Celebrating 100 Years of the Catalina Chimes
In March 1926, the Chimes first rang across Avalon Harbor. Today, a century later, their familiar tones remain woven into the life and memory of Catalina Island.

Perched high above Avalon, the tower has become part of the island’s emotional fabric and a soundtrack to weddings, sunsets, ferry arrivals, morning walks, and generations of family traditions.

Built in 1925 by Ada and William Wrigley Jr., the Catalina Chimes Tower continues to connect past and present through music heard across the hillsides and waterfront every day.

More Than a Landmark
The Chimes Tower is not simply something visitors see. It is something Avalon hears. {link or play audio of chimes on the site} Visitors hear the chimes echo across the bay. Residents mark the hours by their familiar melodies. Families return decades later and recognize the same notes drifting through town. Few places have a sound so deeply connected to memory. That is what we are preserving.

Help Keep the Chimes Ringing
After 100 years overlooking Avalon Harbor, major restoration efforts are preserving the tower, its historic chimes, surrounding grounds, and visitor experience for generations to come.

Your support helps fund:
 - restoration and maintenance
 - reservation of the original chimes and mechanisms
 - landscaping and public access improvements
 - visitor safety enhancements
 - long-term preservation and endowment efforts

Take Part in the Centennial Celebration
 - Adopt a Chime
 - Save a Striker
 - Make a Centennial Donation

Because some landmarks are seen.
And some are heard.

view the Catalina chimes tower restoration