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Ship's Clock and Barometer
Ship's Clock and Barometer

Ship's Clock and Barometer

Artifact IDMO 63.6110
Object Type Clock; Barometer
Date 1950-1961
Maker
Medium Brass, metal, glass
DimensionsOverall H 7 1/2 in x W 3 1/2 in x D 14 1/2 in (19.1 cm x 8.9 cm x 36.8 cm )
Physical DescriptionClock and barometer set inside ship's wheel frames, affixed to a rectangular brass base inscribed "President John F. Kennedy." In horology the term "ship's bells" refers to a clock which strikes according to a system similar to that used on board ship where a bell is struck manually to denote " watches " or a period of duty. A Ship's Bell Clock may not necessarily agree with the nautical time Some ship's bell clocks are made to strike true nautical time but the majority strike in pairs. Accurate time-keeping is essential for sailing navigation and a barometer is one of the most valuable weather forecasting tools.
Historical NoteShip's clock and barometer displayed by President Kennedy in the Cabinet Room of the White House.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was part of the office furniture of the Oval Office of the White House during the Kennedy Administration owned by the government. Ownership was transferred to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesKennedy Administration Collection 1960-1963 (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view