Tidbits: The Abbott Longcase Clock

The Abbott Longcase Clock Today

In Part 4 of Of Gentlemen and Heroes, a special longcase clock (in modern times also called a grandfather clock) plays a cameo role. The inspiration for incorporating this piece of furniture into the story is a family heirloom that has belonged to my family for over two hundred years. It stands today in my parents’ front hall.

However, when I was a child, it lived in my grandparents’ house in Milford, Connecticut. When my parents and I were visiting, Grandpa used to let me help him wind it at night—this was a big deal! I remember his instructing me how to pull the chain—slowly, straight down—and the loud, clanking sound as I did so. The clock’s perpetual tick-tock had a comforting quality I still savor when I think back to those days.

We don’t know who manufactured it. Grandpa even corresponded with the Smithsonian Museum to try to determine its maker, but, sadly, no conclusion was reached, other than it was likely from New York State. You can see its original owners beside it in the photo, my great-great-great grandparents—Samuel C Maxwell (1783–1863) and his wife Helena Van Arnam Maxwell (1791–1881).

A peek inside the clock

One more thing! Inside, it has mysterious writing…