Sanctuary Closed: Ceiling Plaster Failure

On Wednesday evening, September 28, 2011, plaster suddenly fell from the ceiling of the sanctuary, causing damage to the ceiling and chandelier, which must be repaired before we can open again. We retained an architectural consultant specializing in historical structures, and also a specialized construction company with unique equipment and expertise for this kind of work. Upon their review it was determined that the damage was not localized to the chandelier area, but is a systemic failure in the attachment of the plaster ribs and crosspieces to the ceiling; after 120 years, it is failing. This is an expensive enterprise, likely costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. 

An engineering firm has been hired to advise us. They will develop repair options, create drawings, get bids, and supervise the work when it is undertaken.

Old First is very grateful to the Sacred Sites program at the New York Landmarks Conservancy for a grant of $7500 to help us with the assessment of our damaged sanctuary ceiling. More fund raising to come to cover the balance of the cost of the assessment and upcoming repairs.

Many people have asked if they can help. We are posting updates and advice on how you can help. Please keep visiting this page and the links below for developments.

Thank you for your love and support — Old First.
Facebook Updates / How to Make a Donation

Other Questions?
Email sanctuaryceiling (at) oldfirstbrooklyn.org

Letter to Congregation _ September 30, 2011
News Release _ September 30, 2011

How the Ceiling Was Crafted

Our incredible lacunar ceiling was created circa 1890 by highly skilled craftsmen of Italian descent who also worked on some of the city's grandest office buildings. The bone structures, ribs and raised frames which surround the coffers are not carved in wood but are enormous pieces of cast plaster, molded and sculpted by these craftsmen, then raised and affixed to the wooden skeleton of the ceiling. This framework surrounds beautifully stenciled designs, layer over layer of subtle, contrasting colors in green and gold over the lighter rosy sienna base color. Other decorative plasterwork in the sanctuary includes leafy and floral motifs atop columns, arches and above our Tojetti painting.

The quality of the decorative plaster is unexcelled and is rarely seen after this time period. The gifts of 19th century artisans can be seen throughout.

The sanctuary was dedicated in September 1891. Read more.

Financial Donations

Check or Money Order
To make a donation by check or money order, please be sure to earmark it
'Sanctuary Ceiling Repair' and bring or send to the church office:

Old First Reformed Church
729 Carroll Street
Brooklyn, NY 11215

Donate Online through 'Causes' Website:
'Causes' is linked to Facebook and is set up to pull your name and FB photo so that your friends know who you are supporting, and 'Causes' will show your picture with your dollar amount unless you log out of Facebook first.

So, if you wish to make your donation an anonymous one, you will need to log out of Facebook — either on your own browser or click the "Sign Out" link in the upper right corner of the 'Donate to Old First Reformed Church' page.

You will also have an option to make your donation anonymously to Old First when filling out the form, or leave it as is to let them know who you are.

Whichever you prefer — Old First is very grateful for your support. Thank you!

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