A PIECE OF FRENCH HISTORY LIVES IN CLEVELAND

Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821), savior of the French and quite the accomplished warrior, is said to have originally acquired the grandfather clock that resides in the office lobby of Ray, Robinson, Carle and Davies.  The time piece was crafted by Mennonite Peter Kinsing (1745-1816) in Mainz, Germany.

The clock is lavishly embellished with eagles, nymphs, chariots, griffins, columns and other mythical creatures.   It depicts Julius Caesar in full gallop upon his chariot.   The ten foot tall clock is regally adorned with a bust of Socrates at the top guarded by two brass eagles. It is crafted in various woods and brass accents. 

The clock announces the quarter hour and half hours with bell, chimes and an off key tune from a music box within its bowels.

Ray, Robinson, Carle & Davies’ predecessor firm received the clock in 1899 from the Lake Carriers’ Association in appreciation for services rendered.  Lake Carriers’ acquired it from an antique shop complete with a rare pedigree indeed.