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Sometimes, after 53 years of standing straight and looking dignified, one just plain wears out. At least that’s what happened to the Clock Tower at the L.A. County Fair on the final weekend in August.
The original structure, deemed by Fair officials to be structurally unsafe, was removed in consideration of public safety. The landmark is expected to return bigger and better than ever for future Fairs beginning in 2006.
Constructed in 1952, the Clock Tower immediately became the meeting place for friends, families and lost children. “Meet Me at the Clock Tower” is a familiar phrase heard during the Fair. The four clocks that appeared at the top of the original Clock Tower will be placed on the temporary tower during this year’s Fair. The Clock Tower is prominently located at the corner of Broadway and Palm.
Dale Coleman, vice president of sales, marketing and creative programming said, “ We are saddened that this icon of the Fair had to be removed, but we are looking at this as an opportunity to improve the utility of the Clock Tower Plaza as we look to rebuild.”
Fair maps will list the Clock Tower, and while it will not resemble its former self the destination is the same.
A gentleman from Scotland that will be attending this year’s Fair for the first time and looking for a spot to meet friends, said that in Scotland they tell friends to meet under the clock at Victoria Station.
So what appears to be a somewhat international message, “Meet Me at the Clock Tower,” remains applicable at the 2005 L.A. County Fair, Sept. 9 through Oct. 2, closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Horse racing is Sept. 9 through 26, closed on Tuesdays only.
Visit the Web site at lacountyfair.com for more information.
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