Joseph Smith Clockmaker of Barthomley and Chester
Joseph Smith of Barthomley and Chester was a prolific clockmaker in the eighteenth century. Take a look at some of his clocks and read his history.
Joseph Smith of Barthomley and Chester was a prolific clockmaker in the eighteenth century. Take a look at some of his clocks and read his history.
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<strong>Joseph</strong> <strong>Smith</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Barthomley</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Chester</strong><br />
<strong>Joseph</strong> <strong>Smith</strong> table clock made at <strong>Barthomley</strong><br />
<strong>Joseph</strong> <strong>Smith</strong> was a son <strong>of</strong> the well known <strong>and</strong> highly regarded<br />
clockmaker Gabriel <strong>Smith</strong> (<strong>of</strong> <strong>Barthomley</strong> <strong>and</strong> Nantwich).<br />
<strong>Joseph</strong> was born c. 1688 <strong>and</strong> learned his trade from his father. Having<br />
lived <strong>and</strong> worked in the village <strong>of</strong> <strong>Barthomley</strong> for many years, Gabriel<br />
<strong>Smith</strong> left around 1722 <strong>and</strong> relocated his business in the nearby market<br />
town <strong>of</strong> Nantwich. <strong>Joseph</strong> remained at the family home until 1725<br />
when he too left <strong>and</strong> settled in <strong>Chester</strong>.<br />
<strong>Joseph</strong> chose the Gloverstone area where he could trade as a<br />
clockmaker without the requirement to be a freeman. Gloverstone was<br />
within the old city walls, but was not subject to the city Assembly’s<br />
jurisdiction. Hence it attracted many free-spirited artisans <strong>and</strong><br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essionals. <strong>Clockmaker</strong>s were especially attracted to the area. Soon<br />
after his arrival in the city, <strong>Joseph</strong> made a three train turret clock for<br />
the cathedral which he went on to wind <strong>and</strong> maintain until infirmity in<br />
old age prevented him doing so. His wife <strong>and</strong> sons then took over.
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