The Memorial Union Tower, designed in 1922 and built in 1926, resembles a majestic castle. 117 men from the Missouri University (MU) died in WWI. Their names were inscribed inside the walls of the archway as a reminder for future students and visitors to honor them. The “Tipping of the Hats” has long been tradition at the tower. When men or women approach the archway, they tip their hats a gesture to pay their respects to the fallen MU brothers. Students are also to keep conversation to a whisper under the archway.

After WWII, a second plaque was added to honor the names of 338 MU men who paid the ultimate sacrifice in that war.