Sunday, December 4, 2011

Cuckoo for Clocks

  French Club members have been busy making imitation Swiss cuckoo clocks. Switzerland, where French is one of four official languages, is known the world round for its clock-making craftsmanship. The cuckcoo clock, which originated in the forest of Germany, was made popular at the end of the19th century by the Swiss who created clocks in the shape of chalets adorned with trees, birds and other wildlife, as well as people. Pine cones dangle at the end of the clocks' chains. The traditional Swiss cuckoo clock plays music and often has a bird that pops out of a hidden compartment when the clock strikes each hour. These French Club masterpieces are on display this week in the hallway across from the French classroom.