A Rare Elisha Manross 30-Hour Steeple Clock Restored to its Former Glory
Steeple concerns and additional matters discussed in Elisha Manross Clock Tower Discussion
A remarkable find in a barn in 2018 unearthed an antique American Elisha Manross 30-hour time and strike steeple clock. This clock, crafted in Bristol, Connecticut, USA, in August of 1843, has undergone a meticulous restoration process, bringing it back to its former glory.
Elisha Manross was a renowned American clockmaker, known for his high-quality 30-hour steeple clocks produced during the mid-19th century. His work was celebrated for its craftsmanship, design, and unique brass movements that set his clocks apart from many contemporaries.
The clock, found in a state of disrepair, required extensive cleaning and restoration. The coil gong and base were stripped of years of rust, and the mahogany veneered case, though in poor condition with nicks, scratches, and gouges on the entire surface, was given a thorough cleaning. The screws holding the movement were so loose they had to be replaced with bolts.
One of the most notable features of Manross’s clocks is the handcrafted brass movements. These movements, original to the restored clock, include distinctive wheel and gear configurations, well-engineered escapements, pegged joints, and finely cut teeth on the gears, all of which contribute to the clock's smooth and quiet operation.
Unfortunately, the right steeple and base are missing, and the minute hand is also absent. However, the addition of a new right spire base and steeple has made the clock presentable once more. The lower tablet of the clock is missing and has been replaced with clear glass.
The restoration project was a test of veneering and woodworking skills, but the end result is a stunning example of American clockmaking history. Today, Elisha Manross 30-hour steeple clocks are valued by collectors for their craftsmanship, historical importance, and unique brass movements. This restored clock is a testament to Manross's legacy and the era's expanding middle-class demand for affordable yet well-crafted household clocks.
This vintage Elisha Manross 30-hour steeple clock, now restored to its former glory, embodies the lifestyle of a bygone era. As an valuable addition to any home-and-garden collection, it reveals the artistry of fashion-and-beauty of the mid-19th century with its intricate brass movements. Whether paired with antique furniture or modern decor, its timeless design can inspire travel back in time to better understand the food-and-drink culture and overall economy of that period.
