During the 1990’s as FCC neared the century mark, various Building and Grounds Committee members identified areas in the Church that were problematic. The roof needed replacement, ominous cracks appeared in the Meetinghouse and other sections of the historic structure, and water incursion was evident in a number of areas. The organ was not functioning properly, including the pipes and the console, sometimes it didn’t work at all.
The Building and Grounds Committee recognized that expert help was needed to construct a Master Plan that would survey the building condition, identify problems, clarify programmatic space needs and recommend possible solutions. Three architecture firms toured the building, looked at archives and original drawings, then made a formal presentation and bid to the Committee and other Church leaders. The Akron firm of Chambers, Murphy and Burge was selected to head up our restoration.
Over the next year, Chambers, Murphy and Burge interviewed staff and church leaders, surveyed the building, determined what repairs were necessary and how the Congregation wanted to use space available. They also performed the research to submit an application to the Department of the Interior to place the Church on the National Register of Historic Places as it is one of the few remaining "Akron Plan" churches designed and built by Charles Henry. The application has been approved.
In 2004, a special Organ Restoration Committee was formed to find a firm to rebuild or replace the organ and install the historic pipe façade destroyed in the 1950’s. They selected the original builder, Casavant Freres in Quebec, to restore the organ. Casavant accepted the work with the understanding that the acoustics in the Meetinghouse must be corrected, including removal of the acoustical tile ceiling. With this in mind, the Governing Board retained CMB to plan and oversee roof replacement, structural repair and the Meetinghouse restoration required by the organ contract.
A Full History
Exterior and Structural
Our roof was completely rebuilt and structural damage to the roof elements, clock tower, chimneys and the foundation was repaired. The new slate roof was installed by the Durable Slate Company, beginning in November 2004 and completed in July 2005. It is a beautiful piece of craftsmanship and should last at least one hundred years with proper maintenance. The most noticeable changes are the restored copper elements such as the massive monitor (skylight) over the Meetinghouse dome, covered for half a century by shingles.
New light fixtures will illuminate our parking lots. We also have all new signage.
Pictures of the roof restoration taking place
Pictures of the restored exterior molding
Interior
Upon arrival in the Narthex, most will immediately notice the beautiful mosaic porcelain tile that had been covered by layers of carpet and linoleum.
The Meetinghouse will look completely different and more closely resemble the original state. The space will be dominated by the Casavant Frere organ pipe façade with hand stencils to match the originals. The sound should be positively breathtaking.
The wall color is a rich ochre similar to the Narthex color. The ceiling is a dramatic change too, with beautiful decorative painting uncovered when the ceiling tiles were removed. Special attention has been given to restoring the original molding and stenciled wainscot borders that encircle the walls on both levels. Plans for air conditioning and heating ducts have been included in the new framework to maintain a comfortable atmosphere throughout the year.
New carpet and pew cushions in shades of green will be easier on the eye and match our beautiful windows much better, just as the originals did. Much of the floor will be uncovered oak. Improved lighting and sound will be less obtrusive to the eye but appreciated just as well.
Pictures of the Meetinghouse Restoration beginning
Pictures of the Meetinghouse Restoration continuing
More pictures of the Meetinghouse Restoration continuing
Pictures of the restored ceiling stenciling
Organ tuning and restoration
Pictures of the historical relics that were uncovered during the Restoration
Restoration Festival Weekend Events
