- Memorial to an Engineer: The tower was built in memory of Captain William Francis Dawson, who designed the Colombo-Kandy Road. He died before the project was completed.
- Marks a Historic Highway: The tower stands near the historic Kadugannawa Pass. This pass was the first modern highway in the country.
- Architectural Design: The 38-meter-tall monument is shaped like a lighthouse. It features an internal spiral staircase and a central wooden column.
- Posthumous Tribute: The monument was erected in 1832 by his friends and admirers. It recognizes his exemplary service to road development in Sri Lanka.
- Visual Landmark: The tall, white column is a prominent landmark. It is easily seen by travelers on the Colombo-Kandy Road.