Grandfather clocks have been a part of American history for hundreds of years. Grandfather clocks link back to the first successful settlement in North America, known today as the state of Virginia. By the 1700’s, grandfather clocks were appearing in homes as a mark of prosperity.

                Galileo was first credited for discovering the properties of the pendulum. By timing the swing of a suspended lamp with his pulse, he determined that the pendulum could be used to record time.

                In 1657, Dutch scientist Christiaan Huygens created the first pendulum style floor clock based on Galileo’s observations. The back and forth motion of this pendulum served as a clock’s regulating mechanism.

                There are several terms used to describe these unique clocks, such as long-case clocks, tall-case clocks, and floor or hall clocks. The first grandfather clocks were less than seven feet high and often featured an ebonized case. Grandfather clocks were commonly made of marquetry and walnut veneer. Later mahogany cases became stylish, then rosewood and satinwood became available and used as well. Oak was used for the less expensive grandfather clocks for a period of time. Some cases were plain, while others were finely detailed with decorative pillars and stylish carvings.

                Many grandfather clock makers were trained in England prior to migrating to the “New World.” Metal movements were imported rather than wooden movements due to the dampness aboard the ships. The moisture would cause the wooden movements to swell thus becoming useless. The clock makers relied on England for these movements.  At this time there were four types of movements that were used in early American grandfather clocks. A 30 hour brass movement with an endless chain or rope, an eight day brass movement with two weights, and the other two movements were a 30 hour Connecticut movement and an eight day wood movement.

                Grandfather clocks are now symbols of elegance and time. Forever notched in history as perhaps of one your family heirlooms.