Pensacola clockmaster inspires local efforts to preserve downtown clock

Jim Gramlich has maintained the historic Pensacola downtown clock since 1980, and Pensacola State College and community leaders are exploring partnerships and fundraising to support the clock and its tower.

Jim Gramlich has cared for the historic Pensacola downtown clock since 1980 and keeps numerous antique clocks at his home near Perdido Key. The downtown clock, made by E. Howard Watch & Clock Company in 1889, was installed in 1890 and was reconstructed and restarted for a 1982 dedication after years in storage. Gramlich met recently with Pensacola State College leaders and local officials to discuss preserving the clock and its enclosing tower. The discussion followed reporting about deterioration of the tower and has led to possible educational and fundraising ideas. What we know: - Gramlich has maintained the downtown Pensacola clock without pay since 1980. - The downtown clock was built by E. Howard Watch & Clock Company in 1889 and installed in April 1890. - Pensacola State College has expressed interest in partnering with Gramlich, possibly through classes or existing programs and using 3-D printing to make replacement parts. - Community leaders noted the clock tower’s foundation has shifted and discussed fundraising to rebuild the tower rather than repeatedly repair it. - Gramlich said he might gift his own E. Howard clock to the college for educational use and that he could speak to students about making and installing parts. Summary: Local leaders and Gramlich view the clock as an important piece of Pensacola history, and talks are underway about ways to preserve it through partnerships, education and fundraising. Plans discussed include possible collaboration with Pensacola State College on hands-on learning and fabricating replacement parts, and consideration of constructing a new tower at an alternative site.