This clock has been in the Ellsworth family for over 225 years and was made by Oliver Ellsworth’s brother David. David was a well-known clockmaker, watch repairer, gunsmith, silversmith, and dentist. As Jennie Rehnberg, who brought this opportunity to the CTDAR’s attention stated, “It truly is one of a handful of the most important early Connecticut clocks and to have the connection to Oliver Ellsworth’s family is extraordinary. William Hosley acted as our negotiator and with William being a Museum Curator and Historian, he understands the importance and rarity of this clock". What makes this clock incredibly rare is that the face has two names engraved including the name of the clock maker and the engraver. H. Clark was the engraver and was one of the best artisans in a highly skilled trade. The face is made of brass and unforgiving when being carved. To have a clock of this age, with a brass face, and two names, makes for a wonderful and amazing acquisition. |
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