Maule Clockmakers
Newcastle

We are not certain why the family decided to move to Newcastle upon Tyne, as family records portray them being nicely settled in Wooler.  However, records state that in 1855, it was decided to install a clock in the tower of St Mary's Church in Wooler and a Committee was formed to organise a donation scheme.  

The fund soon topped the estimated £200 considered necessary both for the purchase of the clock and to cover alterations to the existing Church tower. However another clockmaker from the area, Richard Turnbull, was awarded

the contract and the clock was installed in 1856 on the

23rd of February!

Our family always remained tight-lipped about the matter but I feel this was a major contribution to their decision to move to pastures 'Newcastle'.

My Great-Great Grandfather John (photographed at a studio

in Newcastle circa 1870) died in 1877 and his son William

took over the running of the business, which was by that time doing extremely well.  William's two sons - James (my Grandfather) & John William - eventually entered the

profession.  

This precious watch-paper is one of only a few remaining from the shop where they made their clocks at 77 Blackett Street, Newcastle upon Tyne (buildings opposite Old Eldon Sq. were demolished to make way for Eldon Square shopping centre).