Terry & Andrews of Bristol, Connecticut. 8-day Steeple Clock. Time, Strike and Alarm. 221222

This is a very good example of a Connecticut Steeple Clock made by Bristol, Connecticut's Terry & Andrews firm.

The pine gothic-shaped case is veneered in figured mahogany and retains an older but clean finish. The painted tin dial is original to this clock. The dotted minute ring is closed, and the hours are demarked with Roman-style numerals. Shaped steel hands tell the time. The center section of the dial is left open so one can inspect the brass-made movement. The cast brass ring fitted around the center arbor is divided into twelve sections. A Roman-style numeral is located in each section representing the hours. This ring is used to set the alarm. The lower half of the door is fitted with an acid-etched tablet.

The etched tablet design is complex and nicely detailed. A hot air balloon is a central theme. Ballooning in America was a relatively new technology, and seeing someone fly in one was of great curiosity. This theme was a popular decoration for clocks made in this period. Suspended below the balloon by ropes is a boat-shaped gondola. Two individuals are seated in the boat, and two large American flags are mounted from the bow and stern. Inside the case behind the dial is the eight-day time and strike brass movement.

The brass plates that frame the works are lyre or harp-shaped. The Clockmaker's name is die-stamped into the front plate. The movement is powered by two steel coil springs. This clock strikes the hours on a wire gong mounted inside the case. The strike train operates on a count-wheel. The alarm mechanism is below the movement, mounted at the bottom of the case. This is also spring-powered and winds independently of the strike train. When actuated, the alarm hammer hits the side of the bell mounted above it. The Clockmaker's label is pasted to the backboard. This is in good overall condition. Read carefully; it provides instructions on operating this clock and information about the Makers.

This case measures approximately 20 inches tall and is 9.75 inches wide. It was made circa 1845.

The firm Terry & Andrews included Theodore Terry and Franklin C. Andrews. This partnership was formed in 1842 and was focused on brass gallery and shelf clock manufacture. The business was located on Preston Street in East Bristol and was the largest manufacturer in Bristol after C. Jerome's departure in 1845. The Terry & Andrews firm moved to Ansonia, Connecticut, in 1850.

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