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 represents a significant chapter in American horological history, continuing the legacy of the esteemed Howard & Davis firm after 1857. Established in 1842 in Roxbury, Massachusetts, Howard & Davis was the brainchild of Edward Howard and David Porter Davis, both of whom trained under the legendary Aaron Willard Jr. Their early work set new standards for precision timekeeping and craftsmanship in 19th-century America. The firm’s innovations extended beyond clocks to include balances, sewing machines, fire engines, and watches—demonstrating a remarkable breadth of technical achievement. By 1852, their manufactory was a landmark in Roxbury, as seen on period maps. Following the dissolution of Howard & Davis, Edward Howard’s vision propelled him to become Boston’s leading maker of weight-driven clocks, catering to both residential and commercial needs. Notably, the company played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American tower clocks and advanced timekeeping systems during the late 1800s, contributing to the growing network of public and institutional clocks across the country. The completion of a new factory complex in 1873 further cemented their influence, with separate facilities for clocks and watches reflecting the scale and ambition of their operations.
The legacy of the E. Howard Clock Company endures as one of the most respected in American horology. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, the company never produced an inexpensive clock; instead, it set benchmarks for accuracy, durability, and elegance. Its clocks became the standard in schools, public buildings, and railway stations across the country, marking significant moments in the nation’s growth. Collectors and institutions alike prize Howard clocks for their superior craftsmanship and historical importance. Today, the E. Howard name remains synonymous with exceptional quality, technical achievement, and an enduring influence on the art and science of clockmaking.
