Marking Time

In 2016, Indiana Landmarks spearheaded a campaign to repair the inner workings of Indianapolis’s iconic Ayres Clock. This year, we turned our attention to the exterior, where a team of local craftsmen assembled to repair, clean, and wax the clock’s historic bronze case.

L.S. Ayres Department Store installed the 10,000-pound, 8-foot-tall clock at the southwest corner of Washington and Meridian streets in 1936. The store added to the clock’s cachet in 1947 with the addition of a bronze cherub, which magically appeared to perch on the clock from Thanksgiving through Christmas. It’s been a beloved Indianapolis holiday tradition ever since.

Along with the clock’s case, the cherub is being cleaned and waxed in preparation for its Thanksgiving arrival.

Support and Receive a Cherub of Your Own!

Indiana Landmarks is leading repair and financing efforts for the project, which is estimated to cost around $65,000. Donations of $100 or more will receive a custom commemorative pin depicting the Ayres clock and cherub, a perfect holiday accessory!

Contribute to the project here — be sure to note “Ayres Clock” in the comment field — or call 317-822-7922.