Freemason Street Baptist Church

Norfolk, Virginia (circa 1848)

This Church was built in 1848 and designed by Philadelphia Architect Thomas U. Walter.  The structure is a very notable historic landmark in downtown Norfolk.  As part of their sesquicentennial celebration, the Church decided on an extensive restoration.  McPherson Design Group completed field investigation, a facility condition report, structural engineering design services, and construction administration for the restoration. Our inspection revealed that modified original heavy timber trusses needed to be studied on a computer model and repairs delineated.  The report was used to rehabilitate areas that were in need of repairs.  We completed the contract documents and construction administration to complete major rehabilitation to the 150’ tall masonry bell tower and other minor steeples.  The main steeple was stripped, all structural sub-framing cleaned and painted and a new roof attached.  In addition, crack monitors were installed to document movement and a complicated system of structural wall bracing was installed to stabilize the steeple tower.