German School Clock Winder

German School Museum

The Clock is Still Ticking by Shirley Boehm

312 Schiller Street ~ 573-486-2017

Yes, the town clock on top of the German School Museum building is still ticking in spite of the passing of one of it' s faithful clock winders. Last week Joe Everdon , the "guardian" of town clock, lost his fight for life. His commitment to the clock surpassed the expected winding of the clock every four days. Joe took care of the clock, he was able to trouble shoot, and make adjustments when the clock needed it. Ironically during the time of Joe's very serious illness, the clock had it's own problems, almost as if to say, " I need Joe." A professional clock man had to be called in to do the repairs.

Joe Everdon came to Hermann from Indiana. He and his wife, the former Clara Groner of Hermann, lived on a small farm a few miles out of town. They enjoyed traveling, raising miniature goats, family and friends, they took active interest in the community and it's historical heritage.

"The Board of Directors of Historic Hermann Inc. (HHI) is very grateful to Joe for the way he cared for the clock, for his devotion and his willingness to do the extra work that he did," emphasized Joy Kallmeyer, President of HHI. "He will be missed, and always remembered."

The clock winders are all volunteers. They give of their time simply because they love the old clock, and they feel it is an honor and a privilege to do this job. Other current clock winders are: Dick Hudson, Dea oLudlow, Joey Los, Katy Gilmore, and Perry Jones. Installed in 1890, the old clock has been ticking ever since. "All through those 176 years, volunteer winders, have wound the clock every four days. That's a remarkable accomplishment," concluded Kallmeyer. If anyone who reads this is interested in being an official clock winder, please call Joy Kallmeyer, at 486-2389.

German School Clock Winder

Published 11/22/06