Andrew Maule Clocks

Now in her eighties, Nancie knows all about Maule Clockmakers. Apparently, our families were very close friends, and the Maule obsession with clocks had rubbed off onto hers.  Her father especially had been fascinated with all-things-clock and the 'Andrew' longcase she had in her possession was a particular favourite of his.  When Nancie mentioned she'd often thought how nice it would be for the clock to return to its origins, it was music to my ears!  Her ancestors, the Diamonds, had bought the clock, clearly genuine, from Maule and it had remained in Wooler since the day of purchase.

Nancie also revealed that her ancestor, Edmund Diamond, had been a member of the organising Committee for the erection of the clock in Saint Mary's Church tower.  She told me that Edmund was in favour of using Maule Clockmakers, who'd lived and worked in the town for well over a century, but the other Committee members disagreed and so he was overruled by 5-1.

It seemed quite surreal - I'd only been in Wooler for five minutes, and not only had I the story behind the family's move to Newcastle but also a much-longed-for 'Andrew' longcase was practically within my grasp. Although there remained the small matter of transportation and restoration, I was now faced with an all-important task - the disposal of my (beautifully printed) 'Wanted' ads!

A local clock enthusiast restored the clock (pictured right) to its former glory. It has now been in my possession for several years and since its overhaul has never faltered.

   TIME FOR LIVING...  { "I took off my watch and found I had all the time in The World" - un de mes lignes lyriques préférés. }