It's a simple clock, but it changed the way we told time in America.
An artistic rendering of the face of a banjo clock is the newest stamp in the 2003
schedule. The 10-cent stamp features the elegant timepiece made about 1805 by Simon
Willard (1753-1848) of Roxbury, Mass.
It's the second stamp in the new American design series by the U.S. Postal Service.
The art in the new stamp depicts the clock's painted iron dial, which has simple
scrolled hands, Roman numerals and a keyhole. The dial is crowned with the patriotic
symbol of an American eagle.
Willard and his brothers were well-known clockmakers in the Boston area during the
first half of the 19th century. Known for his inventive designs, Willard in 1802
patented a new style of wall clock, later called a banjo clock because of its shape.
Willard originally designed the clock for home but later adapted it for schools and
workplaces. Its popularity made it one of the most famous designs in American
clockmaking.
The artist for the USPS is Lou Nolan, who previously was responsible for four stamps
in the Transportation series, as well as the first in the American Design series
(American Toleware in 2002). The Postal Service says the new series reflects the rich
diversity of American design from various eras and regions.
The new 10-cent American clock stamp was released Jan. 24. First-day covers may be
obtained by phoning (800) STAMP-24. In addition, a selection of stamps and other
philatelic items are available at the Postal Store at the Postal Store Web Site.
The Banjo Clock Stamp presentation ceremony at the National Watch and Clock Museum