Democratic Sentinel, Volume 8, Number 14, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 2 May 1884 — Old Clocks. [ARTICLE]

Old Clocks.

The old brass clocks went only thirty hours, and were set in motion by a weight attached to a chain which passed over a sheave having spikes in the groove, which caught in the links of the chain and required to be drawn up every day. On the introduction of the long pendulum, clocks seemed to have assumed a different character. Catgut was substituted for the chain, and barrels were introduced on which the, catgut was wound up, and a greater length of line being employed, clocks‘were made to go for eight days instead of thirty hours, and a chime of bells playing every quarter of an hour was often added; the weights and long pendulum hung down, and, as there was danger of their action being interfered with, tall wooden cases were made to protect them. This vras the origin of the tall, upright clock cases, which were often made of ornamental woods' and enriched with fine marquetry. The earlier cases were made of oak and walnut, the mahogany eases beiDg of the following century, when that word was introduced. In a letter to Woods and Forests (London), an “Old Forester” testifies to the wonderful efficacy of creosote oil in preserving wood. It effectually prevents all growth of fungus, etc. The timber must be thoroughly dry before being creosoted. The Japanese Premier, Prince Kung, addressed Gen. Grant, when he was in Japan, in English, so called. Endeavoring to compliment him by assuring him that he was born to command, lie said: “Sire, brave Generale, you vat made to order.”