The Delacorte Music Clock: A Captivating Attraction in Central Park Zoo

Zoo Core Editors Desk

The Delacorte Music Clock: A Captivating Attraction in Central Park Zoo

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The Delacorte Music Clock, located in the heart of Central Park Zoo in New York City, is a beloved attraction that captivates visitors with its enchanting musical performances and whimsical bronze animal statues. This iconic timepiece is a must-see for anyone exploring the wonders of Central Park.

Operating Hours and Musical Performances

Central Park Zoo Clock
Image Credit: Wikimedia

The Delacorte Music Clock is a true delight for visitors, as it plays a variety of nursery rhyme tunes every half hour between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM daily. On the hour, the clock treats onlookers to a full musical performance, while on the half-hour, a shorter rendition is played.

Captivating Bronze Animal Statues

Central Park Zoo Clock

The clock’s main attraction is the six bronze animal statues that come to life, each playing a different musical instrument. These charming figures include:

  • A goat playing pipes
  • A kangaroo (with a baby kangaroo) blowing into a French horn
  • A penguin on drums
  • A bear with a tambourine
  • A hippo playing violin
  • An elephant with an accordion

Additionally, two mischievous monkeys with mallets strike a bell at the top of the clock tower, adding to the whimsical performance.

Donor and Restoration

The Delacorte Music Clock was a generous gift to the city of New York, donated by publisher and philanthropist George T. Delacorte in 1965. Delacorte was inspired by the animated clocks he had seen in medieval town squares during his travels in Europe.

In 1995, the Central Park Conservancy supervised a restoration of the clock and sculptures, financed through an endowment established by the Delacorte family in 1993. More recently, in 2017, the electrical system was updated, making the music selection digital.

Architectural Design and Dimensions

The clock was designed by Fernando Texidor and architect Edward Coe Embury, with the bronze animal sculptures crafted by Italian sculptor Andrea Spadini. The clock tower stands an impressive 18 feet 6 inches tall, 23 feet 4 inches wide, and 5 feet 9 inches deep, featuring a brick and limestone gateway.

Location and Accessibility

The Delacorte Music Clock is conveniently located on the path between the Central Park Zoo and the Tisch Children’s Zoo, making it easily accessible to visitors exploring the park. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this captivating attraction is sure to delight and enchant.

Conclusion

The Delacorte Music Clock is a true gem of Central Park Zoo, offering a delightful and whimsical experience for visitors of all ages. With its enchanting musical performances, captivating bronze animal statues, and rich history, this iconic timepiece is a must-see for anyone exploring the wonders of New York City’s beloved green oasis.

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