Sidewalk Clock at 161-11 Jamaica Avenue, New York, NY
Why it's listed
A cast-iron sidewalk clock about fifteen feet high stands on Jamaica Avenue in Queens, mid-block between 161st and 162nd Streets and roughly 48 inches from the curb. It was made between 1880 and 1930 by an unknown manufacturer and originally served both as a timekeeper and as advertising. The clock has a rectangular pedestal, a fluted column with a bell-cast base, a round casing with twin faces, and an anthemion finial. The original dials were later replaced by smaller electric clock units surrounded by neon signs, yet the overall outline remains unchanged. It was recognized as a rare and distinctive survivor of the sidewalk clocks once common in American cities, valued for its unusual Greek anthemion crown. It is the only relatively intact example remaining in New York City outside Manhattan. The surrounding street is lined with large commercial buildings with shops at ground level. The clock is listed as inactive and in fair condition.
Significance in brief: The nomination calls it a rare and distinctive example of late nineteenth and early twentieth century American sidewalk clocks, noted for its crowning Greek anthemion. Although electric clock units and neon signs replaced the original dials, its shape and outline are unaltered. It is the only relatively intact sidewalk clock left in New York City outside Manhattan.
Machine-generated summary. This summary was generated by a language model from the official nomination document and has not been reviewed line by line by an editor. It may contain errors. Check the source document before relying on any detail. Source: nomination document (PDF) · National Archives catalog entry. NRHP reference 85000931, listed April 18, 1985. Summary generated October 2026 (model claude-sonnet-5-5, prompt v1.0-2026-10-29, confidence medium).
Key facts
| Address | 161-11 Jamaica Ave., New York |
|---|---|
| County | Queens |
| Listed | April 18, 1985 |
| Reference number | 85000931 |
| Resource type | Object |
| Period of significance | 1880-1930 |
| Architect / builder | Architect: NA; builder: manufacturer unknown |
| Areas of significance | Commerce, Art |
| Level of significance | Local |
| Status (as stated in the nomination) | Condition listed as fair; present use inactive. Original dials were replaced with smaller electric clock units and neon signage at an unknown date. |
| Acreage | 0.9 |
| Coordinates | 40.70418, -73.79858 (NPS GIS) |
What listing means for this property
National Register listing is honorary: it recognises significance and does not restrict what a private owner may do without federal money or permits. It unlocks the 20% federal rehabilitation tax credit for income-producing buildings, state credits in many states, and Section 106 review when federal agencies are involved. See what listing means in practice.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; confirm with your State Historic Preservation Office or a qualified adviser.
Sources and further reading
- National Park Service, National Register of Historic Places database (snapshot May 2026), reference 85000931.
- Nomination form (PDF, National Archives) — catalog entry
- Wikipedia article (used for cross-checking only; text not reproduced here)
- Wikidata Q7508523
- This listing as JSON
Last updated October 2026. Found an error? See the editorial policy for how to report it.