Daniel of Reading, PA. Oyster

Daniel Oyster was born in 1766, the youngest child of Samuel (1734-1767) and Margaret (Pennebaker) Oyster (1735-1808). He was one of four children. His father died when he was just a year old, and as a result, Daniel is said to have been raised by his uncle, Daniel Yoder. In 1792, he married Catherine Rose. Catherine's brother was the clockmaker Daniel Rose. It is also first recorded in 1792 that Daniel is listed as a clockmaker. His shop was located on Fifth Street between Franklin and Chestnut. Daniel died on October 8th, 1845 leaving behind a fair number of clocks. He may have made more clocks than any other Reading, PA clockmaker. Examples of his clocks are illustrated in several horological references, including; Berks County Tall Case Clocks 1750-1850 coordinated by Richard S. & Rosemary B. Machmer; Pennsylvania Clockmakers, Watchmakers & Allied Crafts by Whisker; and Pennsylvania Clocks & Watches, Antique Timepieces, and Their Makers by Gibbs.