Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Save the Kirkbride Windows! Email Action and Hearing


Image courtesy of the Oregon State Library

The Oregon State Hospital was built in 1883 in Salem, Oregon. The plan for the structure was based upon the philosophy of Dr. Thomas Kirkbride. Here is a link to more information on other Kirkbride buildings around the country.

Last summer when I toured the rehabilitation of the facilities, the plan for the windows in the main older section was to have them restored and interior storms installed. Recently the group in charge of the restoration decided that the windows are not worth saving. They want to remove them and install new windows.

There comes a point when a person has seen enough destruction of irreplaceable building materials that something must be done.

I will be testifying on Thursday at the meeting of the Salem Historic Landmarks Commission to help try and save these beautiful windows.
Here are some detail photos of one of the sash.


Sash made from clear Western Red Cedar


Square-pegged rail and stile joints.


Really the only thing that needs work is new glazing putty.


Construction lines clearly evident.


Wedged muntin tenons.

The meeting is in the City Council Chambers at the Salem City Hall at 5:30 pm on Thursday, January 28th. The meeting is open and public comment is encouraged on this matter. If you are unable to attend but feel strongly about this subject, the Salem Historic Landmarks Commission is accepting comments via email. Here is the address where such comments should be directed, preferably by this Thursday, 1/28:
Thanks for your help!

4 comments:

Doug K said...

Amy, thanks for letting us know. I emailed (and postal mailed) comments. Good luck at the hearing.

Melissa Darby said...

thanks Amy,
Beautiful windows, good job. I will send an email to Kim.
Melissa

FSQIV said...

What a shame that the people in charge of the project don't see what a value they have in the original windows. Wake up people! Recycling isn't just about aluminum cans!

Unknown said...

It's hard to imagine anyone looking at the construction of these windows and believing that a new window would even come close. Don't fill the landfill with these beautiful windows! Jean F