Clarifying the Names of the Clock Tower in London: Big Ben and the Great Clock

The landmarks of London often cast a shadow of confusion, especially when it comes to the illustrious Clock Tower of Westminster, commonly known as Big Ben. While the tower is officially named the Elizabeth Tower, the name Big Ben is widely recognized and used across the globe. This article aims to clarify the official names and the historical context behind these terms.

Official Names: The Great Clock and Elizabeth Tower

When discussing the official naming of the clock tower, one must distinguish between the commonly used names and the official designations. The clock itself is officially called the Great Clock of Westminster, while the entire structure is referred to as the Elizabeth Tower, named after Queen Elizabeth II.

Before the renaming in 2012, the tower was known as the Clock Tower. This renaming was done to honor the Queen's enduring reign, and the change was a formal recognition of her contributions to the United Kingdom. The renaming of the tower has led to some confusion, particularly regarding historical references and names. For instance, the term "St. Stephen’s Tower" was never used as the official name for the tower. The name "Big Ben" has become a colloquial term that encompasses not only the bell but the entire clock tower structure.

A Little Confusion in the Naming of the Bell

The origin of the name "Big Ben" has an interesting history. The term does not refer to the clock itself but to the largest bell in the clock, which is the Great Bell. The Whitechapel Bell Foundry, the makers of the bell, have provided some details about its naming. During the public debate held in 1859 to decide on a suitable name for the Great Bell, several suggestions were made. Among them, one presiding over the proceedings, Sir Benjamin Hall, a large and ponderous man affectionately known in Parliament as 'Laird,' suggested keeping the old name "Big Ben," referring to Sir Benjamin Hall himself. The name stuck, and "Big Ben" came to be synonymous with the Great Bell, the clock, and the tower.

The Great Clock of Westminster

The Great Clock of Westminster, also known as the Big Ben clock, is a masterpiece of engineering. It was originally installed to replace the old clock that had been in place since 1707. The Great Clock has four dials, each 7.2 meters in diameter, and it strikes the hours with the sound of the Great Bell, which can be heard from miles around. The clock is a significant part of British heritage and a symbol of the enduring tradition and craftsmanship associated with the nation's clockmakers.

Conclusion

While the Elizabeth Tower and the Great Clock of Westminster have gained significant recognition, the name "Big Ben" remains the most popular term. This name encompasses the entire structure (including the clock, bells, and tower), the clock itself, and the largest bell in the clock. However, it is crucial to understand the official names for formal contexts and legal documents. The renaming of the tower in 2012 serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring significant figures and their contributions to society, while the Great Clock continues to stand tall, telling the time in the heart of London.

References:

[1] Official announcement about the renaming of the Clock Tower to Elizabeth Tower. [2] Whitechapel Bell Foundry, "The Making of Big Ben." [3] Historical records and official communications regarding the renaming.