Meet you under the clock (448 Granville)
“MEET YOU UNDER THE CLOCK”
Since 1907, generations of Vancouverites have arranged
downtown rendezvous with one simple phrase – “meet you
under the Birks clock!”
Erected as “a public convenience for the people of
Vancouver”, this stalwart timepiece has stood in front of the
main Birks store in Vancouver for almost 90 years, requiring
little more attention than a weekly winding of the original
mechanical movement. Originally placed at the northeast
corner of Hastings and Granville, the clock moved with Birks
in 1913 to Georgia and Granville where it remained until 1994.
Manufactured by E. Howard & Company of Boston,
Massachussets [sic], this four-sided clock is constructed of cast
Iron and features foliated capitals, columns, friezes and
Cornices. These design elements, so popular at the turn of
the century, reflect the Victorian fascination with
ornamental details and historic style.
This plaque is dedicated to the past, present and future
generations of Vancouverites and visitors who have enjoyed
and will continue to enjoy meeting at the historic Birks
clock.
Dedicated this 2nd day of November, 1994
by
The Birks Family Foundation
and
The City of Vancouver
Heritage Conservation Foundation
(photo credit Jennie Eggleston)
Submitted by Jennie Eggleston