Auburn's Historic Clock Tower Restored to Former Glory

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  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 6:42 GMT by Auburn Citizen
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

Auburn's Historic Courthouse Clock Tower: A Symbol Revived

AUBURN - The iconic clock tower atop the Cayuga County Courthouse has once again become a vibrant symbol of Auburn, New York, following a meticulous restoration project completed this month. After a decade of visible decline, the landmark's chimes now resonate through the city, marking not just the time, but a renewed commitment to preserving Auburn's rich history.

The restoration, which commenced in June of 2025 and concluded earlier in February 2026, was a significant undertaking fueled by a combination of county funding and state grants. County Executive Keith Edmonson emphasized the necessity of the project, stating, "It's been deteriorating for a long time, and it needed to be addressed." The deterioration wasn't merely cosmetic; critical issues included extensive water damage, pervasive rust, and the failing of vital mechanical components that threatened the tower's structural integrity and its functionality.

The Cayuga County Courthouse, completed in 1873, has served as the heart of the local justice system and a central gathering point for the community for 150 years. Judge Lawrence Cerow powerfully articulated the importance of this restoration, stating, "The courthouse and its clock tower have been a part of this community for 150 years. We've got a responsibility to preserve it for future generations." This sentiment underlines the project's core purpose: not simply repairing a building, but safeguarding a tangible link to the past for those to come.

What made this restoration particularly challenging, and ultimately successful, was the specialized nature of the work. The project team assembled a collective of contractors and subcontractors specializing in historic preservation - experts uniquely equipped to handle the delicate complexities of restoring a 19th-century structure. Modern construction techniques, while efficient, would have been inappropriate and potentially damaging to the historic fabric of the tower.

Project Foreman Jim Smith offered insight into the depth of the restoration, stating, "The workmanship is remarkable." He detailed that the entire clock mechanism had been painstakingly rebuilt "from the ground up." This wasn't a simple repair of damaged parts; it was a complete overhaul, with every component replaced to ensure reliable operation for decades to come. This involved sourcing historically accurate materials and employing traditional craftsmanship to maintain the authenticity of the original design.

The silencing of the clock chimes several years ago had become a palpable loss for many Auburn residents. The sound, once a constant presence in the city's soundscape, symbolized stability and continuity. The restoration team understood this emotional connection. Therefore, the moment the clock began to chime again on Tuesday was met with a small but meaningful celebration, signifying more than just a mechanical achievement. "It's a beautiful sound," Cerow remarked, encapsulating the joy and relief felt by the community.

Beyond the immediate aesthetic and auditory improvements, the restoration project offers a compelling example of successful public-private partnership. The collaborative effort between county officials, state grant providers, and skilled preservation specialists demonstrates a shared commitment to cultural heritage. Furthermore, the project served as a small economic boost for local businesses involved in the restoration work.

Looking forward, the restored clock tower is poised to once again serve as a focal point for community events and civic pride. The Cayuga County Historical Society is exploring opportunities to incorporate the tower into walking tours and educational programs, highlighting its architectural significance and the stories it holds. Discussions are also underway regarding improved lighting to showcase the tower's grandeur at night.

The restoration of Auburn's courthouse clock tower is more than just a building project; it is a testament to the power of preservation, a celebration of community heritage, and a promise to future generations that Auburn's historical landmarks will continue to stand tall.