Second Presbyterian Church

Commonwealth Architects has been commissioned to provide historic restoration design and construction administration services for the sanctuary reroofing and brownstone replacement project on the 1845 Gothic Revival-style Second Presbyterian Church.

This rare Gothic Revival brownstone-trimmed Richmond landmark was the sole southern church commission for the renowned Brooklyn, New York Architect Minard Lafever and his only project constructed south of the Mason-Dixon line. The original brownstone elements and cast iron railing were delivered by rail from upstate New York, according to the historical accounts of its construction. The original brownstone, however, was not properly quarried, dressed or installed in the parapet and bell tower. Consequently it suffered severe erosion and structural failure in its hundred and fifty year existence.

To begin this brownstone renewal project, Commonwealth Architects contracted with the German firm of Schilling Stoneworks, Inc. to supply their Russet Brownstone, which is among the most dense and durable brownstones available on the worldwide market. The assembly of the replacement brownstone crenellated parapet began in March of 2002, followed by the execution of the brownstone-trimmed tower work, slated for completion in 2003. Price Masonry, Inc. of Lynchburg will provide the historic masonry services to install the new brownstone parapet and four tower turrets on the 110-foot high structure.