The Pennsylvania Capitol, renowned for its elegant architecture and historically significant design, hosts an astonishing collection of antique clocks that continue to mark time over a century later. Architect Joseph M. Huston, who envisioned the Capitol in 1901, included these intricate timepieces as part of the original design, adding a unique and historical element to the building’s decor.
The Capitol stands as a magnificent edifice, adorned with priceless artwork, polished marble, and elaborate carvings. Among these features are 273 clocks, some ingeniously integrated into fireplace mantels and other architectural elements. These clocks not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the Capitol but also serve as historic instruments that require meticulous upkeep.
Each clock needs to be wound by hand, a task carried out weekly by skilled clock winders like Bethany Gill. On a typical day, Gill makes her rounds equipped with ladders and tools, deftly opening glass covers to wind the mechanisms and ensure their accuracy. This practice harks back to a pre-digital era, providing a physical link to the past.
Gill’s passion for clocks stems from her childhood experiences with her father, a clock collector. Every Sunday, they would wind their home’s clocks—a tradition that left a lasting impression on her. Now employed by Johnson & Griffiths Studio, Gill forms part of a team tasked with maintaining these historical timekeepers under a $526,000 contract awarded for five years by the Capitol Preservation Committee.
The clocks are a testament to Huston’s architectural brilliance and his vision for a ‘temple of democracy,’ adorned with fine European-like touches. Many clocks, custom made from mahogany, feature unique designs like the keystone shape, symbolizing Pennsylvania’s critical role in the formation of the United States.
Despite their beauty and historical significance, the clocks are not merely decorative. They are subject to regular maintenance and occasional mechanical overhauls. Each timepiece is periodically removed for cleaning, ensuring it remains in optimal condition. This ongoing care, while labor-intensive, ensures these antique clocks keep ticking reliably.
Huston’s legacy, however, is complicated. While his work on the Capitol is celebrated, his reputation was marred by a conviction for conspiracy to defraud the state during the construction project. He served several months in the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, a fact often overshadowed by his architectural achievements.
The antique clocks of the Pennsylvania Capitol stand as enduring symbols of both artistic and functional design. They represent the intricate work of Joseph M. Huston and the timeless nature of historical craftsmanship. To this day, these clocks require the dedicated efforts of individuals like Bethany Gill, underscoring the importance of preserving our historical heritage.
Source: Local10
