"The Clockmaker; Or, the Sayings and Doings of Samuel Slick, of Slickville" is a book written by Thomas Chandler Haliburton. It is a collection of humorous sketches and anecdotes featuring the character Samuel Slick. The book is structured as a series of episodes or stories, each showcasing the wit and wisdom of Samuel Slick, a fictional character from the town of Slickville. Samuel Slick is depicted as a traveling clock peddler, known for his shrewd observations and sharp-tongued remarks. Through a combination of satire, humor, and social commentary, Haliburton presents a colorful portrayal of life in Nova Scotia, Canada, and the United States during the early 19th century. Samuel Slick's sayings and doings touch upon various aspects of society, including politics, religion, business, and relationships. "The Clockmaker; Or, the Sayings and Doings of Samuel Slick, of Slickville" is a humorous and satirical collection that offers a glimpse into the social and cultural landscape of the 19th century North America through the colorful character of Samuel Slick.
Thomas Chandler Haliburton (1796-1865) was a prominent Nova Scotian politician, judge, and author. He played a significant role in Nova Scotia's politics before its entry into the Confederation of Canada and later became the first internationally renowned fiction author from Canada. Haliburton immigrated to England in 1856 and served as a Conservative Member of Parliament. He was the father of Lord Haliburton, a British civil servant, and Robert Grant Haliburton, an anthropologist. Born in Windsor, Nova Scotia, Haliburton attended the University of King's College and later became a lawyer in Annapolis Royal. While he achieved success as a local businessman and judge, he gained the most fame through his writings. His Clockmaker series, originally published in the Novascotian and later as a book, brought him international acclaim. The series humorously depicted the adventures of the main character, Sam Slick. In addition to his literary achievements, Haliburton was connected to the English Burton family, residing in England and engaging with his cousins, including James Burton, an Egyptologist. After retiring from law, Haliburton moved to England and married Sarah Harriet Owen Williams. He was elected as a Member of Parliament for Launceston, Cornwall, in 1859. Haliburton continued writing until his passing in 1865, leaving behind a legacy as a notable Canadian author and political figure.
