TOWN CLOCK
Backwoods Blog;
in the woods and on the road…
Houlton’s new clock by the Cary Library
Houlton has a new clock in Monument Park next to the library. It is a welcome addition to Houlton’s historic district and looks like it has been here since the early twentieth century. The clock was donated to the town by the Grand Lodge IOOF of Maine Rockabema Lodge #78, the Oddfellows, weighs nearly 300 pounds and stands 11 feet high above a small flower garden at its base. The artisan clock was manufactured by the Electric Time Co, in Medfield, Massachusetts. I remember seeing a clock similar to it in Bar Harbor years ago and admired the classic workmanship. The next time I’m visiting Bar Harbor I’m going to check to see if the clocks were manufactured by the same company, as I’m that kind of curious guy.
The clock was installed in the middle of May and the first series of photos I took were taken on a drizzly, overcast morning (as you can tell). The hands on the clock remained stationary at 12 noon until it was dedicated last week during the 4th of July events in Houlton. I returned and took a few more photos this week to see the clock in action. The face of the clock is also illuminated at night providing a friendly companion and practical timepiece for one walking in the downtown during the evening. Along with the clock tower on top of the County Courthouse, Houlton is fortunate to have not one, but two public clocks. When my last wrist watch expired a year ago, I decided to forego a replacement. This is the first time I haven’t worn a watch since first grade. With a cellphone in my pocket and other time devices close by, I haven’t really missed my wrist watch. Now with two public clocks within close proximity to my office, there is even less of a reason. In time, we’ll see how that plays out. The next time you’re in downtown Houlton be sure to check the time.
In the woods,
Dave
July 5, 2023
New clock with Cary Library in the background
Clock, Cary Library and Houlton Chamber of Commerce on the left
Clock and flower garden with Fogg Block and Elks Club in the background
A closer look…
Ornate details under the clock on a drizzly day
The flowers were planted — in the rain! — by members of the newly-formed Houlton Canopy Crew… and I wear a ProFit to keep track of steps for fun, but it’s also a wonderful watch — glad to have time on my wrist after many years without!
Thanks for your musings
posted by Mary M