About this objectWooden Racing Pigeon Box. Clock in front with two handles on the top. Used to record the time of pigeons by inserting a case containing a pigeons ring (2003.1.2).
Pigeon racing started in the UK in 1881. A serial number is marked on a pigeon’s ankle ring, and the clock is set when the bird is released. On its return, the ring is put into the clock box to record its finish time. The fastest bird wins. Until the 1970s, pigeons from the North of England were brought to Hitchin by train to race home. Today they are released at Reed, near Royston.
Date Madec 1930
Place MadeManchester
Medium and Materialswood, steel
Inscription and MarksJundes Thexor Timing Clock Est 1820, Manchester