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Clock Winding-Pennsylvania Capitol
Bethany Gill winds a clock in the offices where news media correspondents work in the Pennsylvania Capitol, Dec. 13, 2024, in Harrisburg, Pa. It's one of 273 clocks in Pennsylvania's ornate state Capitol complex buildings that must be wound by hand. (AP Photo/Marc Levy)

An architect designed custom clocks for Pennsylvania's Capitol a century ago. They're still ticking

Capitol buildings are almost always an imposing presence

By MARK SCOLFORO
Published - Dec 22, 2024, 08:57 AM ET
Last Updated - Dec 22, 2024, 08:57 AM EST

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Capitol buildings are almost always an imposing presence. The seat of government, they tend to be elegant and stately — and frequently capped by a dome.

Visitors to Pennsylvania 's Capitol are drawn to its priceless artwork, polished marble and intricate carvings, but hidden behind the doors of some of its most ornate offices and chambers are another treasure: hundreds of antique clocks that were part of its original design.

The 273 working clocks include many that are integrated into fireplace mantels and other building features.

They are not low maintenance, requiring regular oiling and occasional mechanical overhauls.

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