Channing Memorial Church
Newport, Rhode Island
Finished: December 2009

Description:
Built in 1881 and sitting majestically atop Historic Hill in Newport, Rhode Island, the Channing Memorial Church is a classic example of Gothic architecture that complements the surrounding neighborhood and nearby mansions. Its 130-foot steeple is the highest point in the city, and is readily visible to boats sailing into the harbor. Unfortunately, the elements took their toll over the years and about ten years ago, it became apparent that the steeple needed repair.

Gnazzo’s experts knew restoration would be a daunting task. The church roof could not support the scaffolding that would be needed to work on the steeple, requiring design of a nearly free-standing cantilevered system; the existing steeple itself was tilted and asymmetrical because its sides were not built identically during original construction; there would have to be innovative internal structural work that would support an identical exterior appearance; and there were many other historical factors to consider including delicate stained glass windows to protect, and the need to fabricate a new eight-foot tall copper finial identical to the old one to top off the steeple. The top 52 feet of the steeple had to be dismantled by hand with each stone labeled and re-fabricated on site for use in reconstruction. Workers used lasers to ensure that the entire structure was kept true during rebuilding, effectively correcting the tilt and asymmetry of the steeple.