E. Howard & Co., of Boston, MA. Model No. 75. (Special). Wall clock. 214002.
The Number 75 size has a number of Victorian details. The case is constructed in oak and retains an older finish that has been waxed, which compliments the wood nicely. The case is decorated with a variety of carvings. Floral patterns are featured in several locations. The movement is made of brass and is of excellent quality. It is weight driven and fitted with a Geneva stop. The escapement is designed as a recoil, and the pendulum is full length. The original silver-painted wooden rod supports a nickel-plated brass bob that retains its original decoration. Not surprisingly, it is an accurate timekeeper. The movement is die-stamped on the front plate, “E. Howard & Company, Boston.” It is also die-stamped with the number “59.” The zinc dial is painted and measures 14 inches in diameter. It is signed in block lettering by the Maker in this location. The original weight is cast in iron.
This clock was made circa 1885 and is an excellent example. It measures approximately 60 inches long.
Inventory number 214002.
The E. Howard & Company succeeded the Howard & Davis firm in 1857. The Howard & Davis firm was comprised of Edward Howard and David Porter Davis and was established in 1842 in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Both men had just completed their clock apprenticeship under the guidance of Aaron Willard Jr in Boston. The Howard & Davis firm made high-grade clocks, precision balances, sewing machines, fire engines, and watches. After the dissolution of Howard & Davis, Edward Howard became Boston's leading manufacturer of weight-driven residential and commercial clocks. The firm also made a large number of tower clocks and watchman and salve clock systems. These sold well in the last quarter of the 1800s.
It has been said that the E. Howard Clock company never made an inexpensive clock, and everything they made was of very good quality. As a result, Howard clocks have become very collectible and are prized by their owners. Today, the E. Howard name enjoys outstanding name recognition.
For a more in-depth reading of Edward Howard and his various businesses, please read "Willard's Patent Time Pieces," written by Paul Foley.
