Keeping time in Chicago

I took so many photographs in Chicago a few days ago that I have been at a loss as to how to share them with you. Rather than bombard you with random images, I am going to try to keep each blog post focused on a theme or topic (operative word: try). Today's subject: clocks.

Chicago is a city blessed with amazing architecture. As you walk the downtown streets, gazing up and back and all around, you can't help but notice the numerous clocks along your way. The above two are both from the famed Wrigley Building on North Michigan Avenue, on the Chicago River. The clock tower is visible for many blocks around and is a quick way to check the time, while the other clock is featured above an entranceway and is not so easily seen.

Below, some department store history.

These two photographs are taken one block apart; the first at State and Randolph, the second at State and Washington. This block features the original flagship Marshall Field & Company department store, bought a few years ago by Macy's. The original signs, proclaiming it to be Marshall Field's, have been left intact, as have these beautiful clocks. As you can see, it only took me about six minutes to walk this block!

Below, the Jewelers Building. (Yes, apparently there is no apostrophe.)

This gorgeous clock juts out from the amazing building found at 35 East Wacker Drive. It is apparently known locally as the Father Time Clock, referring to the winged statue of Father Time positioned atop the clock. Only upon researching this online today did I learn that Father Time was often shown with wings, like an angel; this seems to have been popular in the 19th century. You learn something new every day!

I need to go back to Chicago and shoot some close-ups of this beauty! You can read about the building's history HERE, including its Al Capone connection and the special automobile elevator that took cars up to the various floors (this was so the jewellers could leave their offices with their valuables and safely go straight to their cars).

Finally, the Old Republic Building.

Leslie and I spotted this beauty as we were walking back to our hotel on our last afternoon in Chicago. This is the Old Republic Building, on North Michigan Avenue. At this point I was tired, my back was sore, and I just wanted to get back to the hotel and rest up before dinner. But still ... I had to stop to shoot this clock.

More Chicago images in the coming days; check back soon!