‘Falk’ Clock

Lepp Clock no. 15, 1837 (MC0291)

Peter Lepp (1817–1871) made this clock in 1837, the year after he returned from Prussia (present-day Vistula Delta, Poland) and set up his workshop in Chortitza, Russian Empire (now Ukraine). The dial may have been repainted by Kroeger Clockmakers at an unknown date, as the design is very similar to other Kroeger clocks made around the same time.

It is unknown who the clock's original owners were, but this clock has been passed down through the Falk family as long as can be remembered. The Falks moved from the Chortitza Colony to Manitoba, Canada, in the 1870s and settled on the West Reserve.

The clock is on loan to the Neubergthal Heritage Foundation.

• Description Thirty-hour wall clock with pendulum and weight-driven movement, made by Peter Lepp (1817–1871) in Chortitza, Russian Empire, (now Ukraine), in 1837, serial number 15. Round dial with a decorative bonnet. Much of the paint has come off, but basic design is visible. Decorative bonnet has a dark background outlined in yellow, with what appears to be a basket of flowers in the centre and the year 183[7?] painted below. Chapter ring is light with yellow outer and inner borders and yellow Roman numerals separated by a trefoil design. There is also an inner ring bordered in yellow for marking the minutes, but the minute markings have worn away. Inside the chapter ring are the remains of a hand-painted Greek-style vase holding roses. One hand; rope drive; two weights.

• Mennonite Clock Number MC0291

• Object Name Lepp Clock

• Serial Number 15

• Date Created 1837

• Maker Peter Lepp (1817–1871)

• Location Made Chortitza, Chortitza Colony, Russian Empire (now Ukraine)

• Other Markings LEPP (stamped on hour wheel); Chortitz No 15 1837 [den?] 4 N (scratched on hour wheel); PL (scratched on back of pendulum)

• Movement Type Iron plate

• Owner Private Owner