The manufacture of Clocks has become one of the most important branches of American industry.

Its productions are of immense value and form an important article of export to foreign countries.

It has grown from almost nothing to its present dimensions within the last thirty years, and is confined to one of the smallest States in the Union.

Sixty years ago, a few men with clumsy tools supplied the demand; at the present time, with systematized labor and complicated machinery, it gives employment to thousands of men, occupying some of the largest factories of New England.

Previous to the year 1838, most clock movements were made of wood; since that time they have been constructed of metal, which is not only better and more durable but even cheaper to manufacture.
Many years of my own life have been inseparably connected with and devoted to the American clock business, and the most important changes in it have taken place within my remembrance and actual experience.