Originally published in the 1997 Holiday Kamm’s Corners Magazine

The residents of Kamm’s Corners don’t have to worry about time passing by. In fact, very soon the correct time will audibly arrive.

An antique bank clock will soon be placed over the corner entrance of the Kamm’s Corners Bank Building. The landmark, originally built for the Cleveland Trust Company, is located at Lorain Avenue and Rocky River Drive. It is the focal point of a new Storefront Renovation Project.  The lighted four-dial McClintock Clock is over 70 years old, with green and white stained glass. The completely refurbished brass clock, controlled by a computerized panel from inside the building, will chime every fifteen minutes.

Owners Donald and Karen Barrett purchased the now newly renamed Kamm’s Corner Bank Building in December 1995. “Kamm’s Corners is experiencing a renaissance and we knew that the bank building would be a good investment,” said Don, who is a financial consultant with Wheat First Butcher Singer.

The Barretts own six bank buildings, of which three have antique bank clocks on the outside of the buildings. “I enjoy renovating bank buildings, and I have been collecting antique watches and clocks since I was in high school,” Don said. “In fact, our City Bank Antiques in Kent is reminiscent of walking into a jewelry store of over 100 years ago and has the largest selection of pocket watches in Northeastern Ohio.”

“The McClintock chime clocks are very scarce,” continued Don. “This bank clock was removed from a bank in Pennsylvania and is the same time period as the Kamm’s Corners Bank Building. I think it will be an added enhancement to the building and the neighborhood.”

In addition to the antique bank clock, the renovation that is currently under construction also includes the installation of a new marquee over the Rocky River Drive entrance. Two dark green canvas awnings will be installed at Shoreline Outfitters with gold molded letters for all tenant signage mounted in the transoms. The rear and side brick elevations, as well as the repaired second floor windows, have been painted to complement the stone facade. In addition, the two brass shields at the Lorain entry will be refurbished and enhanced with new signage. Also, the second-floor office spaces have been renovated for new tenants.

When the clock was originally installed in January 14, 1926, the news story at that time referred to the “Westminster Chimes” of the clock. It noted the 16 strokes on the hour “form the interpretation for the well-known English prayer: “Lord through this hour Be Thou our guide So, by Thy power No foot shall slide.”

Kamm’s Corners Development Corporation commends Donald and Karen Barrett for their outstanding investment in the Kamm’s Corners neighborhood and the lovely blessing presented by the beautiful sound of the chimes.