Stanford Clock Tower: A Timeless Icon

The Stanford Clock Tower, situated at the corner of Escondido and Lasuen Malls on the Stanford University campus, is more than just a timekeeper; it's a symbol of the university's rich history and enduring spirit. The tower houses a mechanical clock built in 1901 by the Seth Thomas Clock Company. Originally, this clock resided in the belfry of Stanford Memorial Church. However, the 1906 San Francisco earthquake caused significant damage, leading to the belfry's collapse. While the church tower was never rebuilt, the clock mechanism survived. For approximately 50 years, it was kept in a temporary wooden structure behind the church. In 1983, a new clock tower was constructed to house the restored clock. Trustee William Kimball donated the funds for this dedicated tower. Today, the clock chimes every 15 minutes, using the same tune as Westminster Abbey, with a series of tones marking the hour. The clock mechanism still requires hand-cranking twice a week. Visitors can view the intricate workings of the clock through glass walls in its current home.