A thief has recently obtained a new time piece, at the expense of Reiman Gardens, 1407 Elwood Dr.

A large metal sundial was taken from the gardens two weeks ago – the circumstances of the theft, and the perpetrator or perpetrators, remain unknown.

Megan Jorgensen, communications coordinator for Reiman Gardens, said the sundial – which is approximately two-and-a-half-feet tall – was in the gardens Sept. 23 when staff closed the gates at 4:30 p.m., but was gone the next morning.

Jerry Stewart, director of the department of public safety, said the sundial was estimated to weigh approximately five to 10 pounds and had been broken off of its mount.

No signs of forced entry were found at the scene. Jorgensen said her best guess is that the thief or thieves found another way into the gardens.

“It is possible to scale the fence or remain in there after hours,” Stewart said.

Stewart said the sundial was estimated to be worth approximately $500.

According to Iowa Code, theft of property between $200 and $500 is a serious misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,500 fine. Theft of property between $500 and $1,000 is an aggravated misdemeanor punishable by up to two years in jail and a $5,000 fine.

Jorgensen said the sundial was donated 15 years ago by the Mary and Paul Petersen family.

The family could not be reached for comment.

The sundial was displayed at the old horticulture gardens for five years, before being moved to Reiman Gardens 10 years ago.

“It was a loved piece of both gardens,” Jorgensen said.

She said no other sundials are present at the gardens.

ISU Police Capt. Gene Deisinger said incidents of vandalism and theft of campus art occur infrequently. For example, Deisinger said in 2000 the Ring of Life statue located in McKay Hall was vandalized, and although part of it was stolen, it was later recovered.

Anyone with any information on the whereabouts of the sundial can call ISU Police at (515) 294-4428.