Christ Church in Kasauli holds a rather singular distinction—a distinction recorded in the Limca Book of Records: it is home to India’s oldest working turret clock. Imported from W.H. Bailey & Co of Manchester, this clock was installed in the 1880s at a considerable cost for that era—Rs. 2612 and 11 annas. The church tower was raised at this time to accommodate this impressive timepiece. Christ Church, Kasauli, holds a rather singular distinction—a distinction recorded in the Limca Book of Records: it is home to India’s oldest working turret clock. This clock, imported from W.H. Bailey & Co of Manchester, was installed in the 1880s at a considerable cost for that era—Rs. 2612 and 11 annas. The church tower was raised at this time to accommodate this impressive timepiece.
Unfortunately, the clock did not enjoy uninterrupted operation; it fell silent for many years, a fate not uncommon for such delicate mechanisms that struggle to endure the relentless passage of time. However, in 2015, it was revived through a restoration effort that secured its place in history. Today, it continues to function reliably, powered by its original weight-driven mechanical gear assembly.
The church itself, constructed from dressed sandstone with a cruciform floor plan, has humbler beginnings. Its journey began in 1844 when Rev. M.J. Jennings and Bishop Wilson conducted services in a barrack. The structure, then referred to as a ‘shed,’ was completed in 1853, but the church was not consecrated until January 8, 1857, under the authority of the Bishop of Calcutta. Over the years, its aesthetic and spiritual significance grew, turning it into a landmark of timeless charm.
Inside, one finds finely carved stone pillars and solid wooden pews, likely of Burma teak. Natural light filters through the lancet windows along the sides. The stained-glass windows above the high altar depict Christ on the cross, flanked by Joseph and Mary. A side altar features windows with Saint Barnabas and Saint Francis of Assisi—the latter depicted with doves, reflecting his connection to animals and nature. Since 1970, the church, with its Spanish and Italian stained glass—a touch of continental flair—has been part of the Church of North India.
Surely, it is an interesting place to explore.
