For over 50 years, the Martinsville Speedway has been awarding Grandfather Clocks to race winners. These iconic trophies have become synonymous with the speedway and the sport itself. Fans often wonder who is behind the creation of these timeless pieces, and we have the answer.
The craftsman behind the Martinsville Speedway Grandfather Clocks is the renowned Joe Milligan. For over three decades, he has been handcrafting each clock with precision and care. From selecting the wood to carefully engraving each piece, Milligan’s attention to detail is unmatched.
What makes these clocks so special? Each one is unique and reflects the hard work and dedication of the driver who receives it. From the wood grain to the clock face, every element is carefully chosen to ensure the clock is a true work of art.
If you’re a fan of racing or simply appreciate fine craftsmanship, you won’t want to miss our exclusive look at the creation of these iconic trophies. From the history behind the tradition to a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate process, our in-depth coverage will satisfy your curiosity and leave you wanting more.
Behind the Tradition: The History of the Grandfather Clocks at Martinsville Speedway
It’s no secret that the winner of the NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway gets a unique trophy – a grandfather clock. But have you ever wondered about the story behind this tradition? Who started it? How did it become a symbol of victory at the speedway?
Let’s take a deep dive into the history of the grandfather clocks at Martinsville Speedway.
The Origins of the Tradition
The tradition of awarding grandfather clocks to the winners of NASCAR races at Martinsville Speedway dates back to 196That year, the speedway’s president, Clay Earles, wanted to give drivers a special prize that would stand out from the typical trophy or cash prize. After visiting a local furniture store, he got the idea of awarding them with a traditional grandfather clock.
The Making of the Clocks
- The first clocks were made by the Ridgeway Clock Company in Virginia.
- Today, the clocks are made by the nearby Henry C. Reid & Son Jewelers.
- Each clock weighs around 200 pounds and stands over six feet tall.
The Significance of the Clocks
The grandfather clocks awarded at Martinsville Speedway have become a beloved symbol of victory in the NASCAR community. Drivers often proudly display them in their homes or racing facilities as a reminder of their accomplishment.
Winning a race at Martinsville Speedway is already a huge accomplishment, but taking home one of these unique trophies makes it all the more special. And that’s why the tradition of awarding grandfather clocks to the winners of NASCAR races at Martinsville Speedway is still going strong almost 60 years later.
Meet the Master Craftsman Behind the Iconic Grandfather Clocks
Behind every iconic tradition lies a master craftsman who poured his heart and soul into every piece he created. At Martinsville Speedway, that craftsman is Wayne Eubank. For over three decades, Eubank has been responsible for building the coveted grandfather clocks that are awarded to the winners of every race at the historic track.
Eubank’s journey began in the early 1980s when NASCAR Hall of Famer Glen Wood approached him with the idea of creating a special trophy for the winners of the Martinsville Speedway races. Eubank, who had always been fascinated by the intricate design of grandfather clocks, knew that he had found his calling. He combined his passion for woodworking with his engineering skills and began crafting the first grandfather clock trophy for the 1984 race.
The Creation Process
Eubank’s process for creating the iconic grandfather clocks involves over 100 hours of work from start to finish. The clocks are made from solid oak and feature intricate carvings and brass workings that are made in-house. The intricate designs on the clock faces are created using a technique called fretwork, which involves cutting out intricate shapes using a saw.
- Woodworking: The clocks are made from solid oak and each piece is carefully handcrafted and finished to perfection.
- Brass Working: The brass workings, including the gears and pendulum, are all made in-house to ensure quality and consistency.
- Fretwork: The intricate designs on the clock faces are created using a fretwork saw, which requires a steady hand and a keen eye for detail.
The Legacy Continues
Wayne Eubank retired in 2020, but his legacy lives on at Martinsville Speedway. His son-in-law, Mark Fulcher, has taken over as the master craftsman behind the grandfather clocks. Fulcher, who worked alongside Eubank for over a decade, has continued to uphold the tradition of quality and craftsmanship that Eubank instilled in every clock he created.
As the iconic grandfather clocks continue to be awarded to the winners of every race at Martinsville Speedway, they serve as a testament to the legacy of Wayne Eubank and the tradition of quality and craftsmanship that he brought to every clock he created.
- The Legacy Lives On: Wayne Eubank’s son-in-law, Mark Fulcher, has taken over as the master craftsman behind the grandfather clocks.
- Continued Tradition: The clocks continue to be awarded to the winners of every race at Martinsville Speedway, upholding the tradition of quality and craftsmanship.
- A Testament to Quality: The grandfather clocks serve as a testament to the legacy of Wayne Eubank and the tradition of quality and craftsmanship that he brought to every clock he created.
Inside Look: The Intricate Process of Making the Grandfather Clocks
The grandfather clocks at Martinsville Speedway are not just timepieces, they are works of art that require a meticulous and intricate process to create. Each clock is handcrafted by skilled artisans who follow a tradition that has been passed down for generations.
The process of making a grandfather clock involves several steps, including selecting the right wood, carving and shaping the various parts, assembling and finishing the clock. It can take weeks or even months to complete a single clock, depending on the complexity of the design.
Wood Selection
- Cherry is the most common wood used for the clocks, known for its beauty and durability. The wood is carefully selected for its grain pattern and color.
- Walnut and oak are also popular choices, each with their unique characteristics.
Carving and Shaping
- Each part of the clock is meticulously carved and shaped by hand using traditional tools such as chisels, planes, and saws.
- Ornate designs and intricate details are added to the clock face, dial, and hands, making each clock unique and visually stunning.
Assembly and Finishing
- After all the parts are carved and shaped, they are assembled into the clock’s frame.
- The clock is then carefully finished with a combination of stains, paints, and lacquers to bring out the wood’s natural beauty and protect it from damage.
The result of this intricate process is a beautiful and functional piece of art that not only tells time but also adds to the beauty and character of Martinsville Speedway.
What Makes the Martinsville Speedway Grandfather Clocks So Special?
The Martinsville Speedway in Virginia is known for its tradition of awarding Grandfather Clocks to the winners of its NASCAR races. These clocks are not just any ordinary timepieces. They are intricately crafted and have become iconic symbols of the Speedway’s history and heritage.
The clocks are made by the Ridgeway Clock Company, which has been in the clock-making business since 192The process of making these clocks is a laborious and detailed one that involves skilled craftsmen who work tirelessly to create each clock.
The Design and Materials
- The clock’s design is based on the style of clocks that were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, with a traditional wood case and ornate details.
- The wood used to make the clocks is a combination of maple and poplar, chosen for their durability and ability to resist warping over time.
- The clock’s face is made of a brass material that is etched with the Speedway’s logo, while the hands are crafted from steel.
The Craftsmanship and Assembly
- The clocks are assembled by hand, with each component carefully crafted and fitted together to create a seamless whole.
- The clock’s movement, or the mechanism that powers the clock, is a Ridgeway-exclusive design that is made to last for generations.
- Each clock is also carefully tuned and calibrated to ensure accurate timekeeping.
The Significance and Legacy
- The tradition of awarding Grandfather Clocks to race winners at Martinsville Speedway began in 1964 and has continued to this day, making it one of the most unique and enduring traditions in NASCAR.
- For many drivers, winning a clock is not just a victory, but a recognition of their skill and dedication to the sport.
- These clocks have become cherished and iconic symbols of the Speedway’s history and the legacy of its past winners.
In conclusion, the Martinsville Speedway Grandfather Clocks are not just ordinary timepieces, but symbols of tradition, craftsmanship, and legacy. Their design, materials, and painstaking assembly make them unique and enduring pieces that have become a cherished part of NASCAR history.
The Future of the Grandfather Clocks: What Can Fans Expect?
As technology continues to advance, the future of grandfather clocks is a topic of great interest for many. One thing is for sure, the classic design and craftsmanship of these timepieces will never go out of style. However, there are several exciting innovations in the works that could take these clocks to the next level.
One trend that is gaining traction is the integration of smart technology into grandfather clocks. Imagine being able to control your clock with your voice or through an app on your phone. Smart clocks could also have features like weather updates, reminders, and even the ability to play music.
Sustainability
Sustainability is another area where future grandfather clocks could see significant changes. As consumers become more conscious of their impact on the environment, clock manufacturers are exploring more eco-friendly materials and production methods. Clocks made from sustainable wood or recycled materials could become more popular in the future.
Another way grandfather clocks could become more sustainable is through their energy usage. Some clocks already use solar power or have energy-saving features, but we may see even more innovative solutions in the future.
Customization
In the past, grandfather clocks were typically only available in a few standard designs. However, as technology allows for more customization, we could see clocks that are truly one-of-a-kind. Customizable features could include wood type, clock face design, and even the chime sound.
Another area where customization could come into play is in the clock’s movement. Some manufacturers are experimenting with new movements that offer unique sounds or smoother operation, and consumers may have the ability to choose which movement they prefer in their clock.
Restoration and Repair
As grandfather clocks continue to age, restoration and repair services will become increasingly important. Fortunately, many clockmakers and restorers are working to preserve the heritage and craftsmanship of these timepieces.
One trend in restoration is the use of 3D printing technology to recreate missing or broken parts. This allows for more precise repairs and can help extend the life of the clock. Additionally, some restorers are incorporating modern technology into repairs, such as adding LED lighting to illuminate the clock face.
Overall, the future of grandfather clocks is bright and full of exciting possibilities. Whether through sustainability, customization, or restoration, these timeless timepieces are sure to remain a beloved fixture in homes for generations to come.
Who Makes The Grandfather Clocks For Martinsville Speedway?
Who originated the tradition of the Grandfather Clocks at Martinsville Speedway?
The tradition of the Grandfather Clocks at Martinsville Speedway was originated by H. Clay Earles, the founder of the Speedway, in 196Since then, the winning driver of the NASCAR Cup Series races at the Speedway has been awarded with a Grandfather Clock.
Who designs the Grandfather Clocks for Martinsville Speedway?
The Grandfather Clocks for Martinsville Speedway are designed by Ethan Allen, a furniture company based in Danbury, Connecticut. They have been designing the clocks for the Speedway since the tradition began in 1964.
Who builds the Grandfather Clocks for Martinsville Speedway?
The Grandfather Clocks for Martinsville Speedway are built by Ridgeway Clocks, a clock manufacturing company based in Martinsville, Virginia. They have been building the clocks for the Speedway since the 1980s.
Who installs the Grandfather Clocks at Martinsville Speedway?
The Grandfather Clocks at Martinsville Speedway are installed by Ridgeway Clocks, the clock manufacturing company that builds the clocks. They ensure that the clocks are installed correctly and are functioning properly before they are awarded to the winning driver.
Who presents the Grandfather Clocks to the winning drivers at Martinsville Speedway?
The Grandfather Clocks at Martinsville Speedway are presented to the winning drivers by representatives from Ridgeway Clocks, the clock manufacturing company that builds and installs the clocks.
Who keeps track of the Grandfather Clocks won at Martinsville Speedway?
The Martinsville Speedway keeps track of all the Grandfather Clocks won by drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series races at the Speedway. The Speedway also has a display of all the clocks won by drivers in the past, showcasing the rich history and tradition of the Speedway.