American Mantel Clocks

Although clock making began in the Orient and in Europe long before America was ever discovered, the United States has still had its fair share of great clock companies. Although there was a definite lack of clock makers up until the mid 18th century, in the years preceding the Revolutionary War, Thomas Harland, a Connecticut clock maker who had immigrated from England, brought his skills into play in the American Colonies. Harland was responsible for training other men in the art of clock making which created the basis for the American clock industry.

In 1851, the Ansonia Clock Company was started in Ansonia, CT. However, that arrangement didn't work out, so the company was moved to New York City in 1877. By 1886, there were 225 different clock models in the Ansonia line; this was expanded to 440 by 1914. The company specialized in high-end clocks for the wealthy which included statue clocks, swinging clocks, and other types of novelty clocks. They also manufactured more than 10,000,000 watches between 1904 and 1929. Unfortunately, this pioneer in the American time industry ceased operation completely in 1929.  Read more ...