In an extraordinary intersection of global challenges, childhood fascination, and maritime resilience, a 118-year-old clock in eastern Newfoundland, silent for decades, has been revived by a Ukrainian watchmaker. Liudmyla Pass, 68, who recently fled the Russian invasion of Ukraine, undertook the task of repairing the historic clock in Carbonear, Newfoundland, just a month after arriving in the coastal town.
Armed with her tools and over five decades of expertise, Pass ascended the stairs of the long-silent clock tower on Tuesday. Her daughter, Yulia Veretennyk, explained that about four hours later, the once-dormant clock’s gears were clicking and turning. The metal components were rusty and encrusted with salt from the ocean air, but Pass’s meticulous work involved a thorough cleaning and a precise reset of the machinery.
Veretennyk expressed her pride in her mother’s unique skills and dedication, emphasizing that Pass has always been deserving of recognition. The clock restoration project was not only a technical accomplishment but also a symbol of resilience and collaboration between two countries facing different challenges.
Pass and her husband arrived in Newfoundland in November after fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. Veretennyk, who had been living in Newfoundland since May 2022, was part of the first group of Ukrainians evacuated by the Newfoundland and Labrador government in response to the war.
The clock tower, located in Carbonear, is part of the Carbonear Heritage Society, housed in the town’s old post office. A social media post by the society in October expressed a hope that the clock, which hadn’t been operational for decades, would be working again by its 120th birthday in 2025.
Pass’s passion for clocks began at the age of five when she encountered a clockmaker in her village. Enchanted by the intricate mechanisms, she pursued her calling against her parents’ initial objections. Running away at 15 to attend a college where she learned to fix clocks and watches, Pass eventually established herself as the go-to clockmaker in her hometown in central Ukraine.
Her repair of the clock tower in Carbonear has not only brought a historic timepiece back to life but has also sparked renewed interest in preserving cherished buildings and objects from the town’s past. Keith Thomas, chair of the Carbonear Heritage Society, noted the significance of Pass’s contribution, emphasizing the newfound pride and appreciation felt by the community.
Since Pass’s successful restoration, locals have been bringing their own watches and clocks for repair, ensuring that her craft continues to thrive in her newly adopted community. The clock tower, now operational, serves as a testament to the resilience of both the town and its newest resident, Liudmyla Pass.