At about 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, after nearly three years of dormancy, the clock atop Milwaukee's City Hall finally returned to active duty, ticking its way to the correct time.

As a part of the massive overhaul of the built in 1895 City Hall, the clock also was restored to its original design.

OnMilwaukee.com also has learned that the building will be lit at night year round. This is good news as the beautiful landmark was dark for too long. The lights will turn on for the first time during a December 18 ceremony that's open to the general public.

Mayor Tom Barrett, members of the Common Council and the citizens of Milwaukee will celebrate the restoration, significance and beauty of Milwaukee's National Historic Landmark, City Hall. The event begins at 5 p.m. with live music, refreshments and tours. An official rededication ceremony begins at 6:15 p.m. outside at the corner of Wells and Water Streets. The first 1,000 people receive a free City Hall memento and commemorative City Hall posters will be available for $10, with proceeds benefiting the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.

City Hall was designed by architect H.C. Koch in 1892 and constructed from 1894-1896 by Paul Reisen Corporation for $945,000. It is the only American city hall to be constructed in the German Renaissance Revival Style and has been an iconic part of Milwaukee's skyline for more than a century with its 393-foot clock tower.

The current restoration, led by J.P. Cullen & Sons Inc. and
Engberg Anderson Design Partnership, was awarded with a bid contract of $59,927,218.00.

In addition, the City Hall Restoration Exhibition remains open through January 19, 2009.