Chapelton Clock Tower

Statement of Significance

The Chapelton Clock Tower and War Memorial is the only structure of its kind in the town of Chapelton. This unique structure makes it a distinctive landmark in the general area. The edifice commemorates all the fallen men and women in Clarendon who died in World War 1 (1914 - 1918). The prominent bust of Captain Cudjoe famed Maroon leader who resisted and fought back the advances of the British in 1690, guards the entrance to the park. The site takes on additional significance because of the presence of these historic landmarks.

Historical Significance
The erection of the Chapelton Clock Tower originated in 1919 from the desire to build a memorial to honour the fallen men of Clarendon who died in World War 1 (1914 – 1918). The idea for a memorial was proposed by Rev. E. E Brice, then Rector of the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Chapelton. At a public meeting in May Pen, Clarendon, members of the parish Parochial Board and other influential individuals of the parish decided that a tower and clock should be erected in Chapelton. A committee was then formed to see to the construction of the memorial. The members of the committee were J.A.G. Smith, Member of the Legislative Council for Clarendon (Chairman), Dr. A. W. Thompson (Vice Chairman), Mr. Manley Lopez (Treasurer) and the Rev. E. E. Brice (Honorary Secretary).
To make the construction of the clock tower and war memorial possible, several fundraising initiatives were undertaken. These included a subscription list which was opened by Messrs. Thomas Abrahams and company of seventy-five pounds (£75). An agricultural show held in Clarendon in 1921 yielded one hundred and fifty pounds (£150). The Parochial Board of Clarendon also made a contribution of fifty pounds (£50). During the construction phase, the Parochial Board contributed another one hundred and twenty pounds (£ 120). The total cost of construction did not exceed six hundred and seventy pounds (£ 670).
The tower was built on land known as the ‘Triangular Square’ situated on Parade Street (now Main Street) in the centre of Chapelton. A Gleaner report of 1924 stated that the land formerly known as Triangular Square was enclosed and converted into a park which was to be called the Chapleton Tower Park. The construction of the clock tower began in August of 1924 and was completed in April of 1925. The contract for the building of the tower was awarded to Mr. Ambrose Robottam, and the architect was Major B. F. Cawes.
In a very moving and emotional ceremony attended by thousands of residents and dignitaries, the clock and war memorial was unveiled on the 20th of April 1925. During the Great War, the parish of Clarendon sent over three thousand (3000) men to fight in the British cause.

Inherent Features

The Chapelton clock tower is constructed of reinforced concrete. The clock with Roman Numerals is located below the belfry. This imposing edifice, which stands at approximately 12.19 meters (40 feet), is located in the center of the park and is accessible from three different points.

The tower has a turret which, at the time of construction, was roofed with copper. The clock was designed with three dials by Messrs. William Potts and Sons of Leeds, England. At the base of the tower are two marble tablets supplied by Messrs. Becketts and Sons Ltd. London, England, on which are engraved the names of the fallen men of the parish who died in the Great War.

Identity–Local/National/Regional

The Chapleton Clock and War Memorial has been a prominent landmark in the center of town since 1925. It is the only memorial of its kind in the town. To its credit, at the time of our visit (May 2016), it was working, but it no longer chimes. The park is maintained by the Clarendon Parish Council and holds a special value to the community. Apart from being a recreational area, every year during the month of November, the Veterans’ Day Service is held here. It is also the scene of the annual Christmas tree lighting.