The Eternal Flame of UT Martin

Status update: David McBeth is presently finalizing a new bronze "flame" to be added to the Eternal Flame structure in the near future. Stay tuned.

   

Left: As now seen inside the Paul Meek Library, presently located in the reading area near the glass wall on the first floor.
Right: Graphic design for the new Eternal Flame, with dimensions based upon the original brick-and-mortar structure.

Redesigned by Larry Holder, coordinated by Charley Deal, authorized by Chancellor Nick Dunagan.
Constructed by the carpentry team of Rick Bradberry, Noel Arant, and Richard Stallings under the direction of Tim Nipp.
Symbolic bronze flame crafted by David McBeth, authorized by Chancellor Tom Rakes.

The middle section encases the torch that was run across the state and lit the original flame. The initial phase of reconstruction was completed in June 2007 and set up in the front entrance of the Paul Meek Library (later moved to the inner north reading area, where it can also be seen from the outside through the library's northern glass wall).

The Original Flame (1986-2000)

   

As seen at sunset, looking toward the Paul Meek Library.
Photos © Emily Timm Elliston. Used by permission.

The Key Components

The university catalog, describing the Ceremonial Mace used during commencement ceremonies, mentions "...The oval surrounds artwork of the eternal flame presented by UT Martin alumni to the University upon the 60th anniversary of the UT Martin campus." The plaque of dedication says:

An additional plaque was added in 1994:

After the initial dismantling, both plaques were found at the university warehouse and move into the library's Special Collections department by Karen Elmore.

The roof and bowl. 2x2 feet at the base, 14.25 inches tall, welded steel. Stored in ROTC storage for the past 7 years. Relocated by Tim Nipp.

The torch that was run across the state of Tennessee to light the Eternal Flame. Stored until the reconstruction in the UT Martin Alumni Office, under the care of Charley Deal. Its inscription reads:

USED IN THE UT NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
150TH ANNIVERSARY TORCH RUN ACROSS TENNESSEE
OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 22, 1986


Photo © Emily Timm Elliston
Used by permission.

Additional Photos

The Rise, Fall, and Ressurection

A view of the Eternal Flame as it once stood, looking westward toward the library from Crisp Hall. The plaque of 1994 is visible on its east side.

Before 15 years had gone by from its original dedication to the university, Philip Conn (ex-chancellor) ordered the removal of the Eternal Flame, sometime in 1999 or 2000. Ironically, later that same year, Dean Jim Byford called for Conn's resignation for a multitude of other grievances, and before the end of 2000, Conn himself was removed from the campus.

Thanks to our UT Martin administrators, craftsmen, and artisans, our Eternal Flame has been freed from its darkest hour and restored to its rightful place as a fitting testimony to the enduring spirit of our University and to all who call UT Martin our Alma Mater.

Respectfully,
Larry Holder
Class of 1981