A Tower That Rings Through Time:
Restoration Update on our historic landmark
For 132 years, the bell tower has stood as a historic landmark in the heart of downtown Wayne, a timeless presence in the city’s ever-changing landscape.
Wayne Presbyterian Church has been blessed with a magnificent 600-seat sanctuary and a landmark bell tower, designed by George E. Savage and constructed in 1892. For over 132 years, this historic granite structure has stood as a beacon over Lancaster Avenue, its bells a joyful sound at the heart of Wayne since 1893. As with any building of its age, time has taken its toll, and the bell tower now requires significant restoration.
Scaffolding has recently been erected from the base to the very top of the tower’s four spires, wrapped in safety netting to protect both the workers and community below from any falling debris. This extensive restoration project, led by Joseph Dugan, Inc., a masonry restoration contractor well-acquainted with WPC’s architecture, will address a range of structural needs. Dugan Inc. has previously repointed the chapel and sanctuary walls, and is again working closely with our dedicated property committee to ensure high standards and attention to historic detail.
Work includes regrouting the distinctive raised ribbon mortar joints that have worn down over time, as well as addressing interior mortar joints and reinforcing areas that are failing. Additional repairs involve complete mortar joint replacement throughout the four tower spires and exterior, waterproofing, replacement of bird-proofing materials, painting of the tower louvers, and installation of a new certified lightning protection system, including new lightning rods. Sheet metal on the narthex roof will also be replaced as part of the project.
Though the tower will look largely unchanged when the scaffolding comes down, these crucial repairs will ensure its structural integrity and beauty for the next century. The masonry work is expected to take 8–10 weeks, with an additional two weeks for scaffolding removal. Weather permitting, the project should be completed by the end of May 2025.
We are profoundly grateful to an anonymous benefactor who generously donated $100,000 specifically for this project.
The remaining costs, estimated at $220,000, will be covered by existing funds. Our campus requires ongoing investment to remain a safe and welcoming place for worship, fellowship, and service. Thank you to our entire congregation for your continued pledges and donations, which make it possible to preserve and protect this sacred space for generations to come.
