Bloomer Elementary School has launched a fundraising campaign to re-install a clock on the exterior of the school building, and is inviting alumni, parents and community members to be part of this fun and nostalgic project! The goal is to raise $10,000 to purchase, install, dedicate and maintain the new clock.

Background

From the local lore over the years, it is believed the first clock was part of the original Bloomer School built in 1880, became quite popular with citizens who relied on it for their time, but quit working in the early years of the 20th Century.  The school board didn't want to undertake the expense to repair it for inclusion in the new Bloomer, so donated it to the county. The clock was installed in the Pottawattamie County Courthouse in 1924. Judges found the ringing annoying so the bell was disconnected and the clock tower itself removed at some point as it was a perpetual source of leaks.  The entire courthouse building was razed in 1977. Hence, the clock is presumed to be destroyed.

When the new Bloomer school building was built in 1924, it included an electric clock facing Seventh Street, but it is thought that this clock mechanism was removed at some unknown time. The committee believes “It’s Time” to install a new clock for the school and community to enjoy. 

You can be part of helping make this goal a reality with a donation to the project.

Online donations can be made at the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation www.cbsd.org/bloomer-clock.

or make checks payable to Council Bluffs Schools Foundation.

Mail to:

Council Bluffs Schools Foundation
Bloomer Clock Fundraiser
300 W. Broadway, Suite 212
Council Bluffs, IA  51503