Welcome to the Historic Street Clock of Reno, a remarkable landmark that stands as a silent witness to the bustling history of Reno, Nevada. This iconic clock, known as the Ginsburg Clock, was first installed in 1935 in front of the Ginsburg Jewelry Co. on North Virginia Street. The story of this clock is intricately tied to the life of Harry Ginsburg, a prominent businessman and community figure in Reno’s early 20th century.
Harry Ginsburg was born in Russia in 1882 and immigrated to the United States in 1906. By 1914, he and his family had settled in Reno, where he purchased the Golden Jewelry Store. His business quickly became one of the most renowned jewelry firms in the region. The clock he installed in front of his store was not just a timepiece; it was a statement of elegance and precision, reflecting his own expertise as a jeweler, a skill reportedly inherited from his father, who was a watchmaker to the Czar.
The Ginsburg Clock has seen Reno transform through the decades, remaining a steadfast symbol during times of change. After Harry Ginsburg’s passing in 1954, his family donated the clock to the City of Reno. It was relocated to the Park Lane Mall in 1966, where it became a central feature until the mall’s demolition. In 2012, the clock found its current home in front of Reno City Hall, thanks to the efforts of local business owners and city officials.
This clock not only tells time but also tells stories of Reno’s evolution. From its origins as a cornerstone in a thriving commercial district to its role today as a cherished historical artifact, the Ginsburg Clock is a tangible connection to Reno’s rich past.
