Edmonds Clock Tower, Christchurch

The Edmonds' Clock Tower, a notable landmark in Christchurch, embodies a rich history and a testament to the philanthropy of Thomas J. Edmonds, the founder of Edmonds' Baking Powder. Constructed in 1929, this structure was part of the River Bank Improvement Scheme, marking Edmonds' fifty years of residence in Christchurch. This initiative was his gift to the city, with the clock tower and telephone cabinet strategically positioned at the intersection of Madras Street, Chester Street, and Oxford Terrace.

Designed by Francis Willis and built by the Rennell Brothers, the tower showcases the craftsmanship of sculptor William Thomas Tretheway, known for his work on the Captain Cook statue in Victoria Square. The foundation stone was laid on 26 September 1929, coinciding with the unveiling of foundation stones for the nearby Radiant Hall and the Thomas Edmonds’ Band Rotunda, creating a significant day for local heritage.

The materials for building the clock tower were sourced from various places, including Halswell, Glenmore, Lake Kaniere, Connemara in Ireland, and the Vatican. The clock tower is adorned with clock faces on its eastern and western facades, while the northern and southern sides feature medallions of Father Time, styled after Thomas Edmonds himself as a Roman Emperor.

Significant to its design are the inscribed words "Faith, Hope, Peace, Charity" on each side, flanked by gargoyles holding lights in their mouths, adding a mystical charm to the structure. Despite suffering damage during the 2010-2011 earthquakes, the Edmonds' Clock Tower was restored between 2013 and 2015, ensuring its continued presence as a cherished part of Christchurch's architectural and cultural landscape.