A Manross, Prichard & Co. Ogee style wall clock was recently donated to the Sikes Historic Farmstead. This generous gift was from Dave Morehead and Rob Stevanato. The clock had been in the private collection of Rob’s father, who was an avid collector of antique and vintage clocks. It is believed this clock was acquired in northern California, possibly in the San Francisco area or perhaps in the Gold Country. Rob, who owns The Clock Shop in Escondido, rebuilt, and cleaned the clock, which was in excellent, unrestored condition. The weight mechanism and pendulum are original as is the mirror front and interior, which is rare. Often the mirrors are replaced as they are very delicate and fragile.
Elisha Manross (1792-1856) was well known for his involvement in the making of 30-hour brass weight-driven clocks in the 19th century. Manross, Prichard & Co. manufactured fine clocks in Bristol Connecticut from 1841 until the business dissolved in 1843. Manross continued to manufacture clocks under his own name until he filed for bankruptcy in 1853.
While there is no mention of a wall clock in the probate records of Zenas Sikes, it is not inconceivable that the family would have owned a clock. Please be sure to admire the new addition to the farmstead house during your next visit.
April 2023 San Dieguito Lagoon Bird Survey Results