The Pennsylvania State Capitol, designed by Joseph M. Huston in 1901, is a beautiful building. It is often called a “temple of democracy.” The design is similar to European palaces, with shiny marble, detailed carvings, and beautiful artwork. One special feature is the 273 antique clocks built into the building. These clocks are made of mahogany or stained mahogany and are placed in mantels and other parts of the Capitol. They add beauty and show the Capitol’s history and art. Every year, thousands of visitors come to see the Capitol, where 253 lawmakers meet. However, Huston’s reputation is not perfect. He had legal problems during the building’s construction and was punished for conspiracy.

The clocks need regular care. They are oiled, repaired, and wound every week. Professionals, like Bethany Gill, help with this work. Bethany works for Johnson & Griffiths Studio and has a $526,000 contract with the Capitol Preservation Committee. Her job is to wind the clocks, check if they are working correctly, and adjust them for changes in the seasons. Bethany loves clocks because her father was a clock collector. The clocks are also cleaned and fixed to keep them working well.