Iconic Ayres Clock Coming Down for More Repairs
The Ayres Clock is located at the southeast corner of Washington & Meridian Streets in Indy.
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowAn Indianapolis landmark which has stood the test of time and the elements for 85 years is coming down from its perch to undergo major work.
Repairs on the eight-foot-tall Ayres Clock require it to be removed from its spot at the southwest corner of Washington and Meridian streets in downtown Indy.
“The clock will be removed from the building and taken to an off-site facility for restoration, so things will look a little bleak on the historic corner until the work is done,” said Paul Smith, Indiana Landmarks member and volunteer project manager for the clock’s restoration.
When the clock was first repaired in 2016, workers saw the bronze box that houses the inner workings was in poor shape. Smith says the new work will address leaks to the housing and work on conserving the bronze exterior.
“When we’re finished, the clock will be better than new,” said Smith.
On Wednesday, potential vendors will be allowed to inspect the clock so they can assess the job.
The clock is owned by the City of Indianapolis, and Indiana Landmarks is leading the repair efforts and financing.
Indiana Landmarks says when it launched the 2016 fundraising campaign to repair the iconic clock, donors quickly responded by raising $60,000 in 24 days.
“Clearly the people of Indianapolis love the Ayres Clock, and we hope they will be just as enthusiastic this time around,” said Smith.
Depending on the selected contractor’s schedule, the project team hopes the project can be completed in time for the holidays.