What happened to Eli Terry’s wooden gear clocks?
Eli Terry’s wooden gear clocks are still keeping perfect time today over 200 years later in the homes of clock collectors, museums, and whomever is fortunate enough to possess one of these master timepieces. Chauncey Jerome once recalled a conversation his guardian had with some friends, mocking Terry.
What happened to Eli Terry?
Eli Terry retired from clock making in 1833, but that didn’t stop him from making clocks in his free time. Terry began making fine high-quality brass wall clocks just as he did when he first began clock making. He even built three tower clocks for local churches, one of which still works today in the Plymouth Congregational Church.
How did the Terry Clock Company start?
Silas opened up a clock factory making brass shelf clocks under the name Terry Clock Company. He used his father’s patents, which boosted the industry. He later moved his factory to Waterbury, then Massachusetts. When Eli Terry, Jr., died, Hiram and Heman Welton purchased his clock factory and made wooden gear clocks.
How did Terry use interchangeable parts in his clock factory?
Terry used interchangeable parts in his clock factory. Clock gears were made as many as a dozen at a time, and women were hired to paint the clock faces. Terry’s Porter Contract was one of the key kickoffs to the American Industrial Revolution.
When did clockmaking change?
Between roughly 1790 and 1820, American clockmaking changed from a handicraft to an industry. The principal setting for this transformation was western Connecticut, the principal product was the wooden clock movement, and the main character was Eli Terry (1772-1852).
When did the American clock change?
Description. Between roughly 1790 and 1820, American clockmaking changed from a handicraft to an industry. The principal setting for this transformation was western Connecticut, the principal product was the wooden clock movement, and the main character was Eli Terry (1772-1852).
Who wrote the Connecticut shelf clock?
For further in formation, please read the book written by Kenneth D. Roberts, Eli Terry and the Connecticut Shelf Clock. Eli Terry was born in East Windsor on April 13, 1772. He was the son of Samuel and Huldah (Burnham) Terry. He served his apprenticeship to Daniel Burnap until 1792. In 1815 he developed this Pillar and Scroll design ...
What is the maker's label on a clock?
The Maker’s label is pasted onto the inside of the backboard and is in very good condition. It is believed to be the latter form having the word “ INVENTED ” inserted below PATENT. The case is mahogany and retains an older finish. The scroll work or horns are original to this clock.
When was the count wheel striking system invented?
The count wheel striking system is mounted in between the plates of the movement. Terry received a patent for this design on May 26, 1823. It is interesting to note that this movement may have been made or used as late as 1821.
When was the Pillar and Scroll clock made?
This is a very nice example of a very desirable Pillar & Scroll shelf clock made by Eli Terry of Plymouth, Connecticut circa 1819. The production of this model is believed to have been started as early as 1817-1818. The factory-produced movement is constructed in wood having wooden gearing and solid wooden plates.
Is the scroll work on a clock original?
The scroll work or horns are original to this clock. The finials are brass and appear to be original to the clock. The feet on this clock are also original. The reverse painted tablet is excellent. It is so difficult to find this model with an original tablet.
