Derry's Clock Tower facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clock Tower |
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Derry's Clock Tower
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| Location | Plymouth, Devon, United Kingdom |
| Built | 8 August 1862 |
| Built by | Call and Pethick |
| Built for | William Derry |
| Architect | Henry Hall |
| Architectural style(s) | Classical |
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Listed Building – Grade II
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| Official name: Clock Tower | |
| Designated | 1 May 1975 |
| Reference no. | 1130056 |
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The Derry's Clock Tower is a famous landmark in Plymouth, England. It stands tall on its own, not attached to any other building. This special clock tower was built in 1862.
It was meant to be a personal gift for the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII. His future wife, Princess Alexandra of Denmark, was also part of this grand gesture. The gift came from William Derry, who was the Mayor of Plymouth at the time.
This clock tower and a nearby old bank building are very important. They are the only structures in their area that survived the Plymouth Blitz. The Blitz was a period of heavy bombing during World War II. Because of its history and design, the clock tower was given a special status. On May 1, 1975, it was listed as a Grade II building. This means it is a historically important structure that needs to be protected.
The clock inside the tower has worked for most of its 157 years. It even kept ticking during the Blitz! However, since September 3, 2019, the clock has not been working.
Discovering Derry's Clock Tower
This section tells you more about the history and importance of Derry's Clock Tower. It is a key part of Plymouth's story.
A Special Gift from the Mayor
The clock tower was a thoughtful present from William Derry. He was the Mayor of Plymouth from 1861 to 1862. He wanted to give a special gift to the Prince of Wales, Albert Edward. This was before Albert Edward became King Edward VII. The gift also honored Princess Alexandra, who would become his wife.
The tower was built in 1862. It shows the kind of grand gestures people made in the past. It was a way to celebrate important figures like royalty.
Surviving Through History
Before World War II, the clock tower stood at a very busy spot. It was where George, Union, and Lockyer Streets met. Many people thought of this spot as the very center of Plymouth.
During the Plymouth Blitz, many buildings in the city were destroyed. But the Derry's Clock Tower bravely stood strong. It was one of the few buildings in its area to survive the bombings. This makes it a symbol of resilience for the city.
Today, you can find the clock tower standing proudly behind the new Theatre Royal. It continues to be a reminder of Plymouth's past.
