"Big Ben" is a name that often conjures up images of the magnificent clock tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, but here’s a fun little twist: Big Ben actually refers to the Great Bell inside the tower, not the tower itself! The name originated from Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the installation of the bell when it was cast in 1856.
The iconic structure, now called the Elizabeth Tower, was completed in 1859 and stands at an impressive 316 feet tall. It was designed by Augustus Pugin in the Gothic Revival style, and the tower was part of a larger rebuilding project of the Houses of Parliament after a fire in 1834.
Here’s a delightful tidbit: when the clock first started ticking, it was known to be a bit temperamental. The original clockmaker, Edward John Dent, had to make several adjustments before it could keep accurate time. It was so precise that, for a while, it was set to a different time zone than the rest of London!
The clock itself is a marvel of engineering. It uses a gravitational escapement mechanism, which is quite unique. This means that the clock keeps time by using the weight of the pendulum as it swings back and forth. If you ever wondered how it stays so accurate, it’s because the clock is regularly adjusted by adding or removing coins from the pendulum!
The bell, Big Ben, weighs a whopping 13.5 long tons (approximately 13.7 metric tonnes). When it first rang out, it had a deep, resonant tone. Unfortunately, it cracked shortly after its installation, leading to a period of silence. It was re-cast in 1858, and the new bell has been chiming ever since—except during wartime, when the chimes were silenced to prevent giving away the location of the city to enemies.
Here’s where it gets really interesting: Big Ben has its own personality! The bell has a slight crack that gives it a distinctive sound, which has led to it being recognized worldwide as the symbol of London. On New Year’s Eve, the chimes of Big Ben mark the start of the festivities, ringing in the new year with great fanfare.
Did you know that Big Ben is not just a pretty face? It has a heart, too! The tower houses a clock mechanism that requires winding three times a week. This is done manually with a crank handle, and it takes about an hour to wind the clock completely.
Another fun fact: the clock’s minute hand is about 14 feet long and weighs around 220 pounds! The hour hand is slightly shorter, measuring in at about 9 feet and weighing 110 pounds. It’s quite a sight to see these enormous hands gracefully tick away the seconds!
During World War II, the tower survived bombing raids, and the clock’s face was even painted black to avoid being illuminated at night. Despite the destruction around it, Big Ben stood as a symbol of resilience. It was so cherished that even in the darkest times, people would gather to hear the reassuring chimes.
The clock has also become a favorite subject for photographers, with its picturesque backdrop of the Palace of Westminster. It has appeared in countless films, TV shows, and even video games, solidifying its status as a beloved cultural icon.
You might be surprised to learn that Big Ben is not the only bell in the tower! There are actually four bells, each representing a different hour. The largest, Big Ben, strikes the hour, while the smaller bells chime at 15, 30, and 45 minutes past the hour.
The tower has undergone some renovations throughout its history, including a major restoration that began in 2017 and was aimed at preserving its grandeur for future generations. The work included cleaning the clock faces and restoring the original colors of the tower, making it shine even brighter against the London skyline.
Another quirky aspect of Big Ben is its unique ability to sway. The tower can move slightly in the wind, thanks to its clever design. It sways about 1.5 inches in high winds, which helps it withstand storms without any structural damage.
Big Ben has also been a witness to many historical events. From royal weddings to state funerals and significant political speeches, the tower has been a silent observer to the ebb and flow of British history.
The chimes of Big Ben are so famous that they have been used as a time signal on BBC Radio since 1923. This means that if you ever hear the chimes on the radio, you know exactly what time it is in London!
If you’re ever in London, be sure to take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the tower. The clock faces are adorned with ornate decorations, and the tower itself is beautifully lit at night, making it a stunning sight to behold.
Lastly, let’s not forget the fun fact that Big Ben has a bit of a celebrity status. It has starred in films, cartoons, and even inspired a famous song! The song “London Bridge is Falling Down” might have a different name, but it evokes the same whimsical charm associated with the tower.
Big Ben continues to tick away, reminding us of the passage of time and the rich history encapsulated within its walls. Whether you're a history buff, a tourist, or just someone who appreciates a good clock, Big Ben is a treasure that keeps on giving!