PA Museums

Visiting the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County

A collage of four photos taken at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The top left image shows an exhibit of early mechanical clocks, including a large white clock face with Roman numerals and intricate mechanisms. The top right image is the exterior of the museum, featuring a neoclassical design with four large white columns and a traditional street clock in front. The bottom left image displays a unique locomotive-shaped clock with intricate details, housed in a glass display case. The bottom right image shows a collection of wall and floor clocks, each with unique designs and intricate woodwork, alongside a glass case containing smaller clocks and horological instruments. The collage highlights the diverse and extensive collection of timepieces at the museum.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, you’re in the right place!

An exhibit at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, showcasing a collection of ornate wall clocks. The display features a variety of elaborately designed clocks, each with unique decorative elements such as intricate carvings, inlays, and detailed motifs. The clocks range in size and style, highlighting different periods and artistic influences in horology. The arrangement on the white wall allows each timepiece to be appreciated individually, while the overall display demonstrates the rich history and craftsmanship involved in clockmaking. Informational plaques accompany the clocks, providing historical context and details about their origins and makers. The exhibit is well-lit, ensuring that the fine details of each clock are visible to visitors.

Since its opening in 1977, the National Watch and Clock Museum has grown to house the most extensive collection of horological (time-keeping) artifacts in North America.

An ornate bracket clock on display at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The clock, made by Thomas R. Russell from Liverpool, England around 1880, features intricate gilded decorations. The clock face has Roman numerals and two smaller dials above it. The casing is black with gold detailing, including columns on either side, floral patterns, and a majestic eagle perched on top. Two small owl figurines sit on either side of the top. A descriptive plaque provides information about the clockmaker and the history of the timepiece. The clock is showcased in a glass display case with a blue background.

Located in the heart of Columbia, the museum stands as a testament to the evolution of timekeeping.

An interior view of the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, showcasing an extensive collection of longcase clocks, also known as grandfather clocks. The exhibit features a wide variety of these tall, elegant timepieces arranged along curved walls. Each clock is encased in beautifully crafted wooden cabinets with intricate designs and detailing. The well-lit display area highlights the craftsmanship and historical significance of each piece. The ceiling features exposed beams and modern lighting, creating a contrast between the historic clocks and the contemporary museum setting. A central pathway allows visitors to walk through and appreciate the detailed artistry and mechanical ingenuity of the longcase clocks.

Each piece in this vast collection carries significant historical value, offering a glimpse into the artistry and precision that have defined timekeeping through the ages.

The Engle Clock exhibit at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, showcases an elaborate and large clock known for its intricate design and mechanical artistry. The clock, housed in a detailed cabinet, features multiple dials, figurines, and ornate decorations. Above the clock, flags are displayed, adding to the grandeur of the exhibit. Informational plaques and signage on the walls provide historical context and details about the clock's creation and significance. A wooden bench is positioned in front of the exhibit, allowing visitors to sit and admire the marvel of the Engle Clock. The exhibit is highlighted by a well-lit environment, emphasizing the clock's artistic beauty and mechanical complexity.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

The National Watch and Clock Museum is located at 514 Poplar Street, Columbia, PA 17512.

The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday 10 am – 5 pm, Friday 10 am -4 pm, closed Sunday-Monday.

The exterior of the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The building features a neoclassical design with a central entrance flanked by four large white columns supporting a pediment. The structure is symmetrical, with additional wings on either side and a prominent cupola on the roof. To the left of the main building, a traditional street clock is displayed in a landscaped area. The museum is surrounded by neatly trimmed bushes and has a few lamp posts in front. The sky above is clear, providing a bright and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The parking lot in the foreground includes designated accessible parking spaces.

Admission fees as of 2024 are: Adults: $15 | Children (6 to 17): $9 | Under 6: Free | Seniors (65+): $12.

A diorama at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, depicting a clockmaker's workshop. The scene features a mannequin of a clockmaker in period clothing, bent over a workbench, engrossed in his craft. The workbench is cluttered with various tools and materials used in clockmaking. Above the bench, a variety of wooden clock parts and templates are neatly hung on the wall. The background includes additional woodworking tools and unfinished pieces of wood, showcasing the meticulous and detailed process of creating timepieces. Informational plaques in the foreground provide context and historical details about the clockmaking process.

What You’ll See at the Museum

Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by an array of timepieces that span the breadth of human history, from primitive devices to sophisticated space-age technology.

An exhibit at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, displaying a collection of early mechanical clocks. The foreground features a large white clock face with Roman numerals, connected to intricate green and brass mechanisms. Behind it, a row of various historical clock mechanisms is arranged on stands, showcasing the evolution of timekeeping technology. Each piece highlights the detailed craftsmanship and engineering from different time periods. The exhibit is set against a clean, white wall with a well-lit environment, allowing visitors to appreciate the complexity and beauty of these early mechanical clocks. An informational plaque provides context and historical details about the exhibit.

The “Time for Everyone” exhibit showcases public clocks, highlighting their crucial role in community life and their status as symbols of local pride.

An informational display at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, titled "Public Clocks." The text explains the history of large mechanical clocks installed in towers and cathedral spires throughout Europe during the 14th and 15th centuries. These early tower clocks, which often lacked dials, indicated time by the hourly striking of a bell. As technology advanced, these clocks became more accurate and began chiming the specific hour, and sometimes half or quarter hours, with the correct number of strikes. The display notes that the word "clock" derives from the Latin "clocca," meaning "bell." It also discusses the significance and expense of early turret clocks, which took months or years to build and required constant maintenance, making them city-wide status symbols and points of pride. Some advanced clocks included astronomical dials or models depicting celestial phenomena and featured colorful, intricate moving figures known as automata.

These clocks, once central to directing daily activities, remind us of the importance of time in societal structure.

A display at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, showcasing a large, early clock mechanism made by E. Howard & Co. of Boston. The intricate machinery features a complex arrangement of gears, levers, and pulleys, all housed in a robust metal frame. Behind the clock mechanism, several large clock faces and additional timekeeping devices are visible, demonstrating the evolution of clock technology. An informational plaque in the foreground provides context about the significance of the clock, noting its historical importance and connection to notable events, including the impact of time perception during September 11, 2001. The exhibit is well-lit, highlighting the detailed engineering and craftsmanship of the clock.

The “Buying Time” exhibit captures the essence of small-town America in the early 1900s, where jewelry stores were not only commercial hubs but also provided essential watch and clock repair services.

A diorama at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, depicting a historical watch and clock shop. The display features an intricately designed wooden cabinet filled with a variety of clocks and watches, showcasing different styles and time periods. At the center, a mannequin dressed in period clothing represents a clockmaker or shopkeeper. The shelves are lined with ornate mantel clocks, pocket watches, and other timekeeping devices, while the upper section of the cabinet displays larger clocks. The exhibit is well-lit, highlighting the detailed craftsmanship of the clocks and creating an immersive experience that transports visitors back in time to an old-fashioned clock shop. Informational panels provide context about the historical significance of the pieces on display.

Another notable exhibit, “Time in Lancaster,” delves into the rich history of the Hamilton Watch Company.

An exhibit at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, highlighting the history of watchmaking in the Lancaster region. The display features a large map on the wall with the title "Geneva, London... Lancaster," showcasing Lancaster's rail road connections in 1887. In front of the map stands a tall grandfather clock with a wooden case and a prominent clock face. To the left, various display cases house historical timepieces and watchmaking tools, with a dedicated section for Hamilton watches. The exhibit is set in a well-lit room with a wooden floor, allowing visitors to explore the rich heritage of watchmaking in the region.

Founded in Lancaster in 1892, Hamilton Watch quickly became renowned for its precision, particularly with its large railroad models, which were essential for the burgeoning railway industry.

An exhibit at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, featuring two early pocket watches made by the Hamilton Watch Company. The display includes a vintage sign that reads "The Hamilton Watch, The Rail Road Timekeeper of America, Lancaster, PA." Below the sign, the pocket watches are placed side by side. The left watch is identified as Serial No. 1, and the right watch as Serial No. 2. An informational plaque details the historical significance of these watches, highlighting Hamilton's reputation for precision, innovation, and quality. The plaque also mentions Hamilton's contribution to railroad safety and its role in supporting the Allies during World War II. The exhibit emphasizes the craftsmanship and technological advancements of Hamilton watches.

The company pivoted to manufacturing wristwatches as the market switched from pocket watches to wristwatches after World War I.

During World War II, Hamilton Watch played a pivotal role in the war effort by supplying the Navy with essential chronometers.

An exhibit at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, dedicated to marine chronometers. The display features a variety of maritime timepieces mounted on a white wall, each with a descriptive plaque detailing its history and function. The collection includes different styles and sizes of chronometers, highlighting their evolution over time. A large informational panel titled "Harrison's Legacy" explains the significance of these instruments in maritime navigation, accompanied by an image of a historic ship at sea. Above the display, a sign reads "Marine Chronometers," with a dedication plaque to Robert Wolf. The exhibit showcases the crucial role of chronometers in ensuring accurate timekeeping for naval expeditions.

The museum’s collection is impressively diverse, featuring more than 13,000 timekeepers from around the globe.

A display of intricately carved cuckoo clocks at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The left clock features a large, elaborate design with a prominent stag head at the top, crossed rifles, and detailed carvings of woodland creatures and leaves. The clock face has Roman numerals and a small birdhouse entrance. The right clock is smaller, with a simpler design but still showcases detailed woodwork, including foliage patterns and a traditional cuckoo mechanism with weights hanging below. Descriptive plaques provide historical context and details about each clock's craftsmanship and origin. The background is a plain wall, allowing the elaborate designs of the cuckoo clocks to stand out.

Visitors can marvel at stately grandfather clocks, intricate cuckoo clocks, ornate gilded clocks, and quirky novelty clocks.

Three whimsical cat-themed novelty clocks are displayed at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Each clock features a cat's face with the clock dial integrated into the design. The left clock depicts a gray cat with a red bow tie, marked with number 8. The center clock shows a white cat with a green bow tie, labeled number 9. The right clock features a brown, furry cat with an open mouth, showing a playful expression, and is marked with number 10. The background is a neutral wall, highlighting the unique and creative designs of these clocks.

From early non-mechanical devices to today’s cutting-edge atomic and radio-controlled clocks, the museum offers an educational and visually engaging experience that traces the development of timekeeping methods and tools.

A display of numerous grandfather clocks at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The clocks, with their tall wooden cases and ornate designs, are lined up against a white wall. Each clock features a distinct face with Roman numerals and various decorative elements. A poster of Luther Goddard, an American clockmaker, is displayed in a glass case along with some small artifacts. The exhibit is well-lit, allowing visitors to appreciate the fine craftsmanship and historical significance of each grandfather clock. The arrangement highlights the evolution of design and technology in clockmaking.

Final Thoughts

A visit to the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County is more than just a journey through time; it’s an exploration of the ingenuity and craftsmanship that have shaped our understanding of timekeeping.

The image shows a display of vintage advertising clocks at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Three clocks are prominently featured. On the left is a clock advertising "Sauer's Flavoring Extracts" with a black and gold design. The center clock, with a circular face and red casing, advertises "Vanner & Prest's Molliscorium." The right clock, with a wooden frame, advertises "Calumet Baking Powder" with the slogan "Best by Test." Each clock has a descriptive plaque detailing its history and significance. The background is a simple beige wall, highlighting the intricate designs and historical value of the clocks.

With its unparalleled collection of time-keeping artifacts, the museum offers a unique and educational experience for all ages.

A unique locomotive-shaped clock on display at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The intricate timepiece features a detailed miniature steam engine design with a clock face integrated into the front of the locomotive. The clock has a black and gold color scheme, with polished brass elements adding to its elaborate construction. The wheels and other components of the train are meticulously crafted, reflecting the artistry and precision of its creation. The exhibit is housed in a glass case with a blue background, allowing visitors to closely examine the craftsmanship and mechanical ingenuity of this unusual timekeeping device.

Whether you are a history buff, a technology enthusiast, or simply curious about the evolution of timekeeping, the National Watch and Clock Museum promises an enjoyable visit that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art and science of measuring time.

A quote from Benjamin Franklin's "Poor Richard's Almanack" displayed at the National Watch and Clock Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The quote reads, "Dost thou love life? Then do not squander Time; for that’s the Stuff Life is made of." The text is presented in a classic, serif font on a dark background, emphasizing the importance of time in relation to life. The display serves as a thoughtful reminder of the museum's theme and the significance of timekeeping throughout history.

For more information, please visit the National Watch and Clock Museum’s OFFICIAL WEBSITE.

Nearby Attractions

The Burning Bridge Antiques Market expansive, three-story, 24,000-square-foot antique store in Columbia features over 200 vendors, each offering a unique array of treasures.

A collage of four photos showcasing different aspects of the Burning Bridge Antiques Market in Lancaster County, PA. The top left image shows the exterior of the market, a brick building with striped awnings and large display windows. The top right image captures a long aisle inside the market, lined with wooden furniture, shelves, and various antiques. The bottom left image features a section dedicated to vinyl records, with walls covered in album covers and crates filled with records, along with neon beer signs adding a retro feel. The bottom right image displays a detailed aisle filled with glass cases containing collectibles and vintage items, highlighting the market's extensive and diverse offerings from over 200 vendors.

The Tollbooth Antique Warehouse in Lancaster County is a 40,000 sq. ft., multi-vendor antiques and collectibles market in downtown Columbia.

A collage of four photos from the Tollbooth Antique Warehouse in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, showcases the diverse and captivating environment of this 40,000 square foot multi-vendor antique store. The top left image shows the exterior entrance with a brick facade and large industrial windows, welcoming visitors with an "OPEN" sign. The top right image captures the expansive interior filled with retro dining sets, vintage decor, and an inviting atmosphere. The bottom left image highlights an aisle under a sign reading "ANTIQUE FREAKS," displaying a variety of antique furniture and unique items. The bottom right image features a colorful display with a bust of Elvis Presley and a vibrant fish sculpture, illustrating the eclectic mix of treasures found within the former factory building.

The National Toy Train Museum in Lancaster County houses one of the world’s largest publicly exhibited collections of toy trains and accessories.

A collage of four photos taken at the National Toy Train Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The top left image shows the museum's entrance, featuring a glass building with an "OPEN" flag and a sign indicating various museum sections. The top right image captures a vibrant model train layout with an orange passenger train, a central station, and various surrounding accessories. The bottom left image displays a detailed model train layout with mountainous terrain, bridges, and multiple trains running on tracks, along with shelves filled with model trains in the background. The bottom right image showcases an "American Flyer" exhibit, highlighting a variety of model trains and accessories on a realistic train layout.

Find even more great spots to explore in Lancaster County and all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!

Did you enjoy this article?

If so, be sure to like and follow PA Bucket List on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Pinterest to learn more about the best things to see and do in Pennsylvania!

Click on any of the icons below to get connected to PA Bucket List on social media.