Grandfather Clocks

Grandfather clocks were originally known as floor clocks or
long case clocks. A song written in 1875 called "The
Grandfather's Clock" told the story of an aging floor clock
that stood in the George Hotel in North Yorkshire, England.
Two brothers managed the hotel. The clock began slowly
losing time immediately upon the death of one of the
brothers, and upon the death of the second brother, the
floor clock stopped working altogether despite numerous
attempts to have the clock repaired. Eventually new
management gained control of the George Hotel, but the clock
remained in place as a tribute to the two brothers who had
faithfully managed the hotel for so many years. The term
"grandfather clock" caught on quickly after the song became
widely known and since then, what were originally known as
floor clocks are commonly called Grandfather Clocks and are
a cherished part of our culture.

Over the years there have been numerous improvements to
time-keeping devices and grandfather clocks are no
exception. In modern times, a grandfather clock is a
statement of excellent taste and firmly rooted tradition.
Grandfather clocks are commonly a family heirloom that is
passed down through the generations. Grandfather clocks
vary somewhat in size, but are generally 6 to eight feet
tall and lend a stately appearance to any room. You can
also find smaller versions of grandfather clocks, which are
known as grandmother and granddaughter clocks. Families for
centuries have passed a cherished grandfather clock from one
generation to the next, and today there are grandfather
clocks with great historical and sentimental value. Some of
the oldest known grandfather clocks are still used as the
models for the grandfather clocks we purchase today. You
will also be able to find more modern version of the
grandfather clock in varying styles and colors.

Each time you see a grandfather clock, remind yourself of
where this term originated and give a bit of thought to the
long history of these treasured timepieces and heirlooms.
If you do not own a grandfather clock you will be happy to
know that it is easy to start your own family heirloom and
you will be able to find the perfect grandfather clock in
all price ranges.