German Black Forest Cuckoo Clocks
What originated in the Black Forest of Germany in the seventeenth century? German Black Forest Cuckoo Clocks of course! The cuckoo clock not only keeps time, it is also a work of art. Later in the week, I will share my ideas on how to properly care for a cuckoo clock.
German Black Forest cuckoo clocks are made mostly out of wood. Some internal parts are now made of brass so that they will hold up longer. Some clocks have two chains with acorn-shaped weights on the ends. One chain controls the clock, and one controls the cuckoo. Some clocks also feature music and will have a third chain and weight to control the music. Do you have a favorite? Cuckoo clocks originated in Furtwangen or Triberg in the Black Forest region of southwestern Germany.
The German Clock Route takes today’s tourists through the central and southern Black Forest where they can see enormous (house-sized) working cuckoo clocks, see traditional clocks being made, and also purchase these ever-popular souvenirs. I will talk more about that next week as I prepare a for a trip to Europe. I hope you will join me.