Albert Clock, Barnstaple facts for kids
The Albert Clock is a special clock tower in Barnstaple, Devon. It was built to remember Albert, Prince Consort, who was the husband of Queen Victoria. This important building has been officially recognized as a Grade II listed building since 1988. This means it's a historic and important structure that should be protected.
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Why Was This Clock Tower Built?
The Albert Clock stands in The Square in Barnstaple. It was built in 1862. This was just one year after Prince Albert passed away. The idea for the tower came from John Norrington, who was the Mayor of Barnstaple at the time.
People in the community helped pay for the tower. They raised money through donations from the public. Some of this money was also meant to provide a drinking fountain for everyone to use. The first plan for the tower did not even include a clock!
A Special Dedication Ceremony
The clock tower had a dedication ceremony in 1862. Many important local people were there. The clock's pendulum was set to start swinging at 11:00 p.m. This was the exact time Prince Albert had died. At the same moment, water began to flow from the new fountain.
What Does the Albert Clock Look Like?
A local architect named Richard Davie Gould designed the tower. It is made from strong limestone blocks. It also has beautiful decorations from Devon marble and sandstone. You can see other local stones and patterned tiles too.
The tower has a base with eight sides. Above this, it becomes a tall, eight-sided shaft. At the top, there is a square section with a clock face on each side. The very top has a small bell tower with a pointed roof and a weather-vane. The original bell is still inside the tower.
Details of the Tower's Base
On the south side of the tower's base, there is a doorway for stairs. On the north side, you can see a water-trough. Behind this trough is a panel of colorful tiles. Above the tiles, there is a white marble coat of arms.
The drinking fountain that was once there has been removed. It was given by Sir William Fraser, who was a Member of Parliament (MP). On the east and west sides, there are pointed arches made of red sandstone. Above these are arches made of different colored local stones. Inside these arches, there are special marble plaques remembering Prince Albert.
Restoring the Albert Clock
The Albert Clock Tower was repaired and made new again in 2009. This restoration project received money from the Barnstaple Town Council. It also got funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which helps preserve important historical sites.
Gallery
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Plaque with dedication to Prince Albert
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The remains of the drinking fountain
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Plaque to Prince Albert
