On these last two pages you will see some of Leland's previous work. Alex Chadwick in his feature story about Leland and his work for National Public Radio described Mardela Springs "...as a small place a long way from anywhere big." Many might take exception to such a remark, but, for Leland & Michelle Mardela Springs has provided a community and a buffer a long way from the foolishness of the modern world. They are able to pursue their craft to its highest potential and re-capture the art form of clock making.

Their clock mechanisms are made using a simple lathe, gear cutting engine, saw and drill as they were used 300 years ago. No plans or templates are used while making the clocks.

Leland "Begins at the beginning. Following the laws of mathematics and physics to set the mechanism properly running." Case design is a mix of consignor's taste and Leland's experience of having seen thousands of styles and variation of clock casings over the past 35 years. Again, no plans or templates are used. The case proportioning, wood grain, trim molding and other features take shape within the master craftsmen's minds eye allowing for an original, unique, one of a kind design uniquely suited for the consignor.

How unique? In an article for the Baltimore Sun newspaper, Dail Willis contacted Stuart Mitchell of The American Clock and Watch Museum in Bristol, Conn. He says "It's always a difficult thing, the eight day (wooden geared) clock ... there aren't many people doing this -- maybe just three or four."

Tony Glaros, in a feature story for Woodshop News, begins his article saying, "In the heart of the drowsy village of Mardela Springs, in the marshy and mellow Eastern Shore of Maryland, there lives a man who is elegantly, soothingly, clock wise." "Leland Hedgecock Smith ... could pass for a former campus radical turned visiting professor of horology, the study of the measurement of time."

Glaros continues with the question, "Will his clock making remain commercially successful?" "Who Knows?" Smith shrugged. "Its worth is determined by the individual. Some folks say 'oh neat, get a job' other folks look at our work and tell us the people preserving the old skills are national treasures."

Their shop, methods, and the Adkin's Historical Museum Complex remain open and welcoming to all who visit. Leland is available for talks and lectures to any interested groups. For more information please contact Leland using our contact form.

Images of Original Work >>