The Stretch Family of Clockmakers
A prominent Pennsylvania family of 18th century clockmakers began their trade with Samuel Stretch,who was working in Philadelphia, circa 1711.
Samuel took his nephew Peter Stretch (1690 to 1740) as his apprentice, and he, in turn, raised two sons as clockmakers, Thomas (1720 to 1760) and William (born circa 1720). In addition to making fine clocks, Thomas was also active in civic affairs and is remembered as one of the founders of the Pennsylvania Hospital.
Circa 1750 another Stretch clockmaker, Isaac, was working in Philadelphia, however a family connection has not been demonstrated.