Babel Drum Tribute La Porte Indiana

October 2018

La Porte Mayor Mark Krentz has unveiled a new stainless-steel Babel Drum placed outside the City Hall in memory of former Clerk-Treasurer Teresa Ludlow.

Donated by city employees in memory of their colleague who died of cancer on Sept. 30. Teresa was the city clerk-treasurer for the past 20 years, and had a total of 30 years of service to La Porte. She once said she wanted a drum she could see from her office in City Hall. The drum was scheduled to be a surprise gift to her in October, however sadly did not arrive before her death.

Babel Drums are circular stainless-steel tongue drums fixed for permanent outdoor installation and available in two sizes. Offering a unique hand-drumming experience, the mellow tones they produce are never too loud or brassy and perfect for musical exploration in the fresh air.

This Small Babel Drum becomes the sixth instalment of the ‘Joyful Noise’ project - started in 2016 – with large outdoor musical instruments located in unexpected places throughout the city to reflect the city’s rich musical heritage, attract visitors and offer play opportunities for children and adults alike.

Those who knew Teresa knew that she “marched to the beat of her own drum.” So, it seemed only fitting that a drum was unveiled in her honour on Friday, Nov. 2, 2018, by the La Porte Mayor with Teresa’s family, friends and co-workers present.