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· Trustees
and the Building Committee have been diligent in their efforts to identify
the extent of the work needed to save the sanctuary, preventing further
deterioration of the structure and the exterior masonry and make it safe.
The professional assessment is thorough and will address all problem areas
which have been identified. After interviews, the firm of Julian P. Barry
General Contractor was selected as best qualified and experienced in this
demanding and specialized type of project, due to their extensive experience
in church-related construction and historic restoration, to work with our
architect and structural engineer.
This firm conducted a thorough assessment of the job and generated an
initial preliminary estimate of cost.
The following major items are included in their estimate, though the
Building Committee continues to refine details with them.
· The
major portion of the work involves removal and replacement of the
sanctuary’s exterior masonry veneer which is no longer anchored to the
structure and is in imminent danger of failure resulting in an unstable
structural condition involving life-safety issues.
· Steel
studs will be installed to reinforce the structure in areas where the old
wood studs have rotted or deteriorated.
New masonry anchors will be installed to secure the new veneer to the
structure.
· Stained
glass windows must be protected during the process.
· New
brick has been located which replicates the color and look of the original
structure.
· Representatives
of the Texas State Historical Commission have indicated that brick
replacement will not interfere with the church’s historical structure
designation as long as the church looks the same as it did in 1976 when the
designation was given.
· The
two towers on the west side will be stabilized and sections rebuilt as
required to maintain structural integrity.
· Wood
doors will be resurfaced and weather stripping installed.
· Wood
windows will be restored and sealed.
· Energy
savings will result from new thermal insulation to be installed in the
walls, as there is none in the original structure.
· Exterior
wood louvers, trim, window framing, etc. which have rotted due to lack of
maintenance will be replaced or repaired.
General Contractor Estimate
Construction costs
$967,693 |
· May
22, 1852:
Early settlers requested the establishment of a Methodist church, according
to official records
· May
21, 1855:
The first church building, granted by the Commissioners Court was used for
worship, schooling, Masonic Hall, and shared by Methodists,
Christians, and Baptists. The current sanctuary site was given by
Judge J. M. Lindsay, a prosperous early
settler.
What do you suppose was going on in his life that particular day, to
motivate such a generous donation?
· 1892:
A resolution was passed to construct the current sanctuary for a total cost
of $10,000. John Garrett served as designer and builder
· 1893: The stained glass windows arrived, as did the organ, which is still in operation today. The beautiful pipe organ was the first tracker pipe organ in North Texas. Originally having 363 pipes, 85 wood, and 278 metal, it now has more than 600