This “Tavern” or “Parliament” Clock was made in about 1770 by Martin Dunsford of Ashburton and given to the Great Meeting Chapel in North Street, Ashburton in 1791 by Sir Robert Palk, MP for Ashburton.

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These clocks were developed in the early 18th century and made to be hung in public buildings; they became know as Act of Parliament Clocks. In 1797, William Pitt introduced a tax on clocks and watches.  The tax on clocks was five shillings, which in 1797 was a great deal of money.  This Act was very unpopular and most people hid their clocks and watches and relied on the large Tavern Clocks.  The Act was repealed after only nine months. 

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The name “Act of Parliament Clock” is not accurate as these clocks were made at least 80 years before the Act was introduced.  They have very large dials in various shapes and were made of oak planking and the cases usually of pine. The pictures on the door usually have an oriental scene and the clock maker’s name was written on the dial in large flowing gilt script with the name of the town underneath.  

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After about 1770 white dials were used with black numbers, the clock maker’s name was still in the large flowing script but the name of the town is in capital letters and less flowing, and placed on the top of the case above the door instead of on the dial.  Hands can also give a clue to the age of a clock.  Those used on the Ashburton clock were in use circa 1760. 

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When the Great Meeting Chapel in North Street, Ashburton was closed in 1985 the Museum was able to buy this Clock thanks to generous donations from The National Arts Collection Fund, The Beecroft Bequest & Mr & Mrs Paul Endacott.