Freetown Clock Tower Restoration Incorporates Historic Old FBC Stones
The ongoing restoration of Freetown’s iconic Clock Tower is integrating historical stones recovered from the original Fourah Bay College (FBC) site in Cline Town, including masonry bearing authentic bullet marks from past conflicts.
The landmark rehabilitation initiative, funded by the Commonwealth Heritage Forum and executed by West African Heritage Consultants, aims to preserve the architectural and historical integrity of the structure while modernizing its surrounding urban infrastructure.
Under the technical supervision of heritage experts, original bricks from the Clock Tower are being systematically cataloged and conserved. Structurally compromised sections are being restored using salvaged stone masonry from the historic 19th-century college campus.
Project conservators have intentionally retained visible battle scars—specifically historical bullet indentations on the recovered stones—to safeguard tangible artifacts of Freetown's complex history within the restored monument.
The Freetown City Council (FCC) reaffirmed its endorsement of the initiative, highlighting that the project forms part of a comprehensive strategy to protect civic heritage and elevate prominent municipal landmarks.
According to municipal representatives, the initiative serves a dual purpose: safeguarding cultural legacy for future generations and enhancing public infrastructure around critical historic spaces across the capital.
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