NAWCC not only lost one of its past presidents (1981-1983), but horology lost one of its most ardent and respected researchers, with the passing of Ward Francillon on the 25th of October, 2004. A member of the Association since 1968, he was not an Old Timer in terms of years of membership, but he played a most important role in the growth of our organization and in expanding its educational services. While serving as first vice-president, Ward chaired our first (1980) and second educational seminars. Additionally, he served as the chairman of the Seminar Committee and was its guiding light for 15 years. It was TERRY WHITE Ward and Mary Francillon 2004 Pacific Northwest Regional Spokane, Washington most fitting that, in 2003, the seminar was renamed “The Ward Francillon Time Symposium” in Ward’s honor. Also, let us not forget his role as a member and Trustee of the American Clock and Watch Museum.
Although many think of the Francillons as residents of Atlanta, GA, where they resided for many years, Ward’s association with NAWCC began while he was a resident of California. There he was a member of the Dr. W. Barclay Stephens Memorial Chapter 5, serving as a chapter director and president before being elected NAWCC second vice-president in 1977. It was in California that he also helped initiate the Stephens Memorial Lecture series, helped organize and edit the Cog Counter’s Journal and where his great interest in the educational aspect of horology was first evidenced. During this period he also served on our Museum Acquisitions and Research Committees. He was an active member of several committees during his years of service to the NAWCC: the Crafts Contest Committee, the Awards Committee, and, from 1997-2004, the Editorial Committee. He served on the Strategic Governance Advisory Committee from 2001-2002.
Ward and his beloved wife, Mary, were regular attendees at most of our National meetings and annual educational seminars over the years. One could often spot Ward and his trademark straw hat, surrounded by those seeking information about one of his many research interests. Whether it was wooden works clocks, or some other topic, he was only too happy to share his knowledge with those desiring information. In fact, it has been reported that he and Mary, as was so typical of them, invited two relatively new members, with an interest in wooden works, to visit their home and view their collection after the recent MidSouth Regional (see photo below).
As one who benefited from his help while planning the 1996 seminar on railroad timekeeping, and who knew of Ward’s interest in railroads, this writer understands the scope of Ward’s expertise. His interest in railroading became evident during the Denver National in 1992 when we both had the pleasure of a most enjoyable trip on the Georgetown, CO, railroad behind a steam engine.
When he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer some three years ago, his and Mary’s friends prayed for his recovery from this most serious condition. That he became well enough to continue for a period to participate in NAWCC activities and to lend his expertise to all of horology was a blessing, for him and for all of us. To Mary, his two daughters, and his son we express the sincere condolences of all our members. May they realize the great respect and appreciation we had for this man and for his contributions to NAWCC.