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repointing the masonry, and restoring the large terra-cotta center
window and the wood surrounds around the other windows. Seaboard will
also replace seven ornamental finials removed in 1960. All work will be
conducted by hand, using the same methods the original craftsmen used to
give the building its special character.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the restoration of this wonderful
architectural gem,” said Seaboard President Michael Ahearn. “We will
work to reverse the ravages of time and bring this historic building
back to its former glory.”
The elaborate façade features a large rose window, elaborate cornices,
molded brick work, and Central Gable, along with keyhole-shaped windows
that accommodate stained glass. Moorish touches include rounded arches,
bell-shaped pinnacles, and intricately carved columns, which Seaboard
will restore to their original condition.
Completed in 1887, the synagogue is the first great house of worship
built in the United States by East European Jews. The congregation
flourished through the 1920’s, when many Jews left the Lower East Side.
Worshippers continued to gather in the building, but began meeting in
the basement during the 1950’s as the main sanctuary deteriorated.
Despite the setbacks, the congregation has not missed a weekly service
since its founding.
The synagogue is the latest high-profile building in Manhattan that
Seaboard has worked on. The company is currently working on the
Woolworth Building and recently completed the restoration of 90 West
Street, a Cass Gilbert masterpiece that The New York Times called the
“miracle survivor of 9-11.”
About Seaboard Weatherproofing and Restoration Company:
Based in Port Chester, NY, Seaboard Weatherproofing and Restoration
Company is one of the leading restoration and alteration construction
firms in the New York City metropolitan area. The company has received
several accolades for its work on high-profile projects, including The
Elephant House at the Bronx Zoo, The Cloisters museum, and 90 West
Street, originally constructed in 1907 and designed by noted architect
Cass Gilbert, which experienced extensive damage during the 9-11 attack.
For more information, please call (800) 347-7464 or visit
www.seaboardwpr.com.
PRESS CONTACTS:
Stacey Cohen/Mike Dardano
Co-Communications, Inc.
(914) 666-0066
mike@cocommunications.com
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New
York, NY (September 28, 2005)– Scaffolding covers
the façade of the Eldridge Street Synagogue as a crew
from Seaboard Weatherproofing & Restoration Company
works to restore the fine detail of this historic
building’s exterior.
Project,
the entire building is undergoing an extensive
rehabilitation that is expected to cost a total of $12
million. The anticipated completion date of the façade
work is December, 2005.