02.14.07
Analysis of the Historic Bell Tower
Through the generous support of Preserve Rhode Island/Citizens Bank Foundation and the Rhode Island Foundation, First Congregation Church was able to utilize the services of Architectural Conservation Services of Bristol in order to conduct a full conditions assessment with mortar analysis of the historic Bell Tower.
Completed in 1856, the church is a fine example of mid-Victorian Gothic revival and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a contributing structure of the Bristol Waterfront Historic District. Because of the building’s historic nature, a professional assessment of the Bell Tower with recommendations for treatment was considered prudent in keeping with responsible stewardship of the structure.
The assessment included inspections of all levels of the Bell Tower, including the basement, narthex, balcony level, third floor level, fourth floor (bell) level, and the roof. An architect specializing in historic preservation was brought in to provide cost estimating services. The final report, with mortar analysis that included suggested recipes for replacement mortars, cost estimate, a preservation brief explaining repointing on historic structures, and many photographs illustrating the areas of concern, was submitted to the church on February 13, 2007.
The church gratefully acknowledges the support of the Preserve Rhode Island/Citizens Bank Foundation and the Rhode Island Foundation for making this professional condition assessment possible. The Facilities Committee is currently reviewing the report.
