✯ Capitol* Hi Restorationll Restoration Society Society * ✯

www.chrs.org October 2011 “Water and Light”—Bartholdi Restored

By Lisa Dale Jones

ou can’t miss it. Anyone walking “We needed to hire a 120-ton Ynear the United States Botanic crane just to remove the pieces of the Garden (USBG) along Independence fountain. The diameter of the pool is Avenue has seen the Bartholdi 100 feet, so it was about 75 feet to the Fountain, newly restored to its center of the fountain from the crane, original 1876 appearance. Designed and the fountain is heavy. That jacked R obinson I ron courtesy photo for the in up the crane specs pretty well!” , Frédéric Auguste The parts of the fountain were Bartholdi’s fountain has been a loaded onto two 18-wheeler flatbed fixture in Washington, DC, since trucks and driven down to Alabama. 1877, when Frederick Law Olmsted After they arrived, all the pieces convinced Congress to purchase it were cleaned down to the original cast for $6,000 (half the asking price). It iron, and then sprayed with molten originally stood at the center of the zinc to keep them from rusting. Botanic Garden when it was located directly in front of the Capitol. In Continued on page 6 1932 the fountain was moved to its location along Independence Howell can’t get over the quality Avenue in what is now called Also in this issue . (Bartholdi also designed the .) ARTICLES Although the fountain has been September Preservation Café...... 5 The in the 1890s. repaired and cleaned at various AOC at Membership Forum...... 7 Virginia Avenue Tunnel Update...... 9 times in the —most recently in NE Library Renovation...... 9 1986—it was in serious need of a to Mr. Ayers, “Congress was very major restoration. After many years generous with funding this project.” COLUMNS President’s Column...... 2 of study and planning, the fountain Dismantling the Structure Zoning Briefs...... 3 was dismantled in 2008 to begin the Historic Preservation Briefs...... 4 process. The work was overseen by Robinson Iron in Alexander City, CHRS Supporters...... 8 Stephen T. Ayers, AIA, LEED AP, Alabama, specializes in restoring and Looking Back on Capitol Hill...... 10 (AOC), with constructing and undertook LOOKING AHEAD involvement by Holly H. Shimizu, the major portion of the restoration. October Preservation Café...... 7 Executive Director of the USBG. Scotty Howell, Vice President of the Fun Fall Auction...... 11 The work was divided into several company and project manager for the Mark Your Calendar...... 12 phases in order to secure the funding Bartholdi restoration, says it was a in manageable segments. According large-scale project right from the start. of the fountain. President’s Column: Reaching Out

By Beth Purcell

apitol Hill always faces new Cchallenges. For example, the CSX Virginia Avenue Tunnel construction will have a major effect on neighbors near the 200-1100 blocks of Virginia Avenue. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Section 106

of the National Historic Preservation E lizabeth N elson courtesy photo Act (NHPA) provide for community participation in decisions on this project. CHRS plans one or more public meetings for the community to learn about their rights under NEPA and NHPA and how to use their rights to be heard. Homeowners are always looking for new ideas and solutions to problems. Our Preservation Cafés try to meet this need by finding experts to discuss topics of interest to homeowners. CHRS table at Barracks Row Day. We are doing a lot to be a resource for the Capitol Hill community, but we need to and want to do more. CHRS in the Neighborhood CHRS reaches out by participating in events such as the H Street Festival As part of our “Beyond the Boundaries” program, CHRS volunteers are and Barracks Row Day. CHRS engaging in a variety of community outreach activities. In September, volunteers meet people attending we staffed booths at both the H Street Festival and Barracks Row Day. these events to offer information, The H Street Festival was hugely well-attended, even larger than last answer questions when we can, and year. The scene extended all the way from 8th Street to 14th Street, NE: get feedback on questions important a grand opportunity to share the Society’s mission with those living to Capitol Hill neighbors. We use this outside the boundaries of the Capitol Hill Historic District. feedback to respond to questions and Barracks Row Day seemed tame by comparison, but it was lovely respond to the needs of the Capitol to see old friends and introduce ourselves to newcomers on the Hill. Hill community. Please contact us At both events, we distracted the children with beads to string and by telephone, letter, or email about temporary tattoos while we passed out membership information and issues that are important to you, or “vintage” house tour catalogues to their parents. programs that CHRS could offer that On October 5, we’ll have a presence at Walk to School Day in ✯ are of interest. Lincoln Park, passing out pencils with our web address to all the students. Volunteers are always welcome—and they always have fun. Just check out the photos on our homepage. If you would like to assist in any of our outreach efforts, please call or email Elizabeth Nelson, 543-3512, [email protected].

2 • CHRS News October 2011 Capitol Hill Restoration Zoning Briefs Society (CHRS) By Gary Peterson BOARD OF DIRECTORS President...... Beth Purcell he Capitol Hill Restoration This case involves a building 1st Vice President...... Michelle Carroll TSociety Zoning Committee met (two buildings combined into one) 2nd Vice President...... Shauna Holmes Secretary...... Janet Quigley on September 8, 2011 and considered that has been substantially altered by Treasurer...... Sharon Weiss five cases. The Committee voted to man and a fire. It consists of a 3-story At Large...... Donna Hanousek support three cases, take no position section and a one-story section. At Large...... Catherine Davis in one case, and oppose a portion of Without going into further details the At Large...... Chuck Burger At Large...... Donna Barbisch one case. The cases considered were: owner proposes to create a 3-story At Large...... Maurice Walters restaurant with 25% of the third story 18243. At Large...... Drury Tallant This case involves replacing open. The committee voted to take Immediate Past President...... Dick Wolf an existing garage and building a no position. roof deck. The applicant needs a COMMITTEE CHAIRS special exception to construct a free 18254. The applicant needs five Donna Hanousek, Beyond The Boundaries Paul Cromwell, Budget & Administration standing garage addition serving an variances and one special exception Dick Wolf, City Planning existing one-family row dwelling to construct a 315 square foot garage Barbara Eck, Communications not meeting the lot occupancy with 100% lot occupancy into a two- Elizabeth Nelson, Community Relations requirements, and a variance from story plus roof deck single-family Beth Purcell, Environment Larry Pearl, Grants the accessory structure height and residence located at 1303 Linden Nancy Metzger, Historic Preservation story limitations at 1231 F Street, Court, NE. This is a property that is Paul Cromwell and Ann Richards, NE. The lot occupancy will change internal to the square and is located House & Garden Tour from 60% to 65% (a special exception behind the Atlas Theater. There will Michelle Carroll, Membership Gary Peterson, Zoning is needed to go from 60% to 70%). be one parking space in the building. The Committee voted to support the The property has any number of NEWSLETTER special exception. problems, including being in both the Lisa Dale Jones and Kelly Vielmo, editors There is a height issue with the R-4 and C-2-A zones. The committee Jean Kohanek, design & layout garage because it can only be 15 feet voted to support the application. WEBMASTERS high measured from the backyard. Donna Breslin and Paul Cromwell The alley in this case is much higher 18258. The applicant needs a (10 feet) than the backyard and they OFFICE MANAGER variance from the off-street parking Gloria Junge need a variance to build a useable requirements, and a special exception garage. The Committee voted to from the roof structure requirements To reach any of the above, please contact the Society offices at (202) 543-0425 or support this variance. to allow the construction of a new via e-mail: [email protected]. The applicant also wants to build four-story apartment house with a roof deck and the tower to cover www.CHRS.org ground floor retail, in the C-2-A the interior stairs is 5 feet too high. District at 1442 Pennsylvania Celebrating more than 50 years helping The committee voted to oppose this Avenue, SE. This property is the to preserve and protect Capitol Hill’s residential character, the Society is the request and recommended that an former KFC site. largest civic association on Capitol Hill, exterior stair be built instead. Applicant proposes building a and one of the largest in the District four-floor apartment building. The of Columbia. From the beginning, 18247. In this case the applicant is first floor will be retail and there will the Society has played a key role in maintaining the diverse, residential seeking a variance from the floor also be a roof deck. The Code requires character of our neighborhood. With area ratio requirements, a variance 11 parking spaces and the applicant your participation, we will continue from the rear yard requirements, a proposes 7 spaces. To provide the to do so for many years to come. variance from the off-street parking required parking the applicant would To start or renew a CHRS membership: requirements, and a variance from have to dig a basement and build a On the web at www.CHRS.org the loading requirements, to allow ramp. Because of the unusual shape Call (202) 543-0425; choose option 2 the development of a new restaurant of the property doing this would Pick up a form at one of our meetings in the HS/C-2-A District at 1309 and be prohibitively costly. The special 1311 H Street, NE. Starting at just $25 per year for a single membership, it’s a great deal. Continued on page 11

CHRS News October 2011 • 3 Historic Preservation Briefs

By Nancy Metzger

Looking At “The Hawk” From a earlier change and install appropriate thing, the large tree on one side of Preservation Perspective windows on the second floor and in the door has been removed. It had Ever since it was announced that the first-floor store-front bay, getting been planted too close to the house Hawk ‘n’ Dove owner and founder rid of the “Ye Olde Colonial Store” and would not have survived the Stuart Long was selling his legendary feeling. construction. Although a lovely tavern, people have been reminiscing Over the years, the buildings at specimen, its absence does provide and swapping tales about the “good 329 and 331 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE a much better view of the façade, old days” that began 44 years ago. have been altered numerous times, which will be restored closer to its The preservation story is equally inside and out, so the signature historical appearance when the porch interesting—and goes back much bay windows with the dramatic is reconstructed. The historic house farther. The Hawk ‘n’ Dove is swooping copper roofs likely did plus all of its additions and three new actually comprised of three historic not mean a loss of historic fabric. town houses are all being converted buildings—the westernmost frame The present lack of windows on into a condominium project. building with a gable roof that served the second floor of both buildings Altus Realty, owners and for a long time as a cigar shop and contributes to a “hybrid” feeling—not developers, reported to ANC 6B03 the center building (Main Bar) which having windows would indicate a Commissioner Norman Metzger was once a two-story blacksmith one-story building but the height of that “interior demolition is being and carriage repair shop and after the buildings is the same as the two- carried out under the permit issued that a gas station with a pump at the story building at 327 Pennsylvania in March. The heavy equipment on curb. The easternmost building, now Avenue, SE. Mr. Cevera will be re- site was used to create the ramp for the Pub, was once connected to the introducing windows on the second the Dumpsters to be pulled close neighboring building (now known as floors in a size and style appropriate to the building. We are in for our the Tune Inn, another legendary bar) for brick construction of the period, foundation to grade permit with the when they both operated as a salt- thus re-establishing the historic scale. city. This is for the construction of water taffy factory. On the ground floor the easternmost the garage, which is the first phase Along with the accolades for building, no. 331, will have a new flat of the work. We hope to start work running his successful business, Mr. store-front (a solution likely similar to on the garage late this year and Long also deserves accolades for the pre-1960 condition) and the center anticipate that the work will take four what he didn’t do in the 1960s when building will have new entrance months, weather permitting.” Altus he established his business. Simply doors with side lights. All these new plans to introduce a website soon so put, 10 years before the establishment windows will help to introduce more the neighbors can keep up with the of the historic district, he recognized light into the interior space and allow project. the value of historic preservation and for more patio seating, some of Mr. There has been some left the building much as it had been Cevera’s goals. Yet they will also help disappointment thus far with the in 1927 when it was Harvey’s, selling to establish the separate identities project—everyone hoped that 5-cent cigars. (There is a photo on of the three buildings—a bonus the archaeological excavations of the Hawk ‘n’ Dove website to prove for the historic district. Mr. Cevera the South Carolina lawn would it.) At a time when aluminum siding expects the construction to last about turn up evidence of the wine covered many frame buildings and six months as the interior is being cellar, supposedly forty-two feet historic trim was removed without completely renovated. underground, that Count Louis Francoise de Pourtales was reported much thought, Stuart Long replaced Phase I of “The Maples” Condo to have constructed in 1858 when he only the windows and door. Granted, Project Now Underway the door in the photo was a beauty was owner of the property. So far, the ✯ but it also appears to be very short, If you have recently been past The location remains a mystery. so it is not clear it hadn’t been Maples, the historic 1795 house and removed by 1967. So the little frame grounds in the 600 block of South building is ready for Xavier Cevera, Carolina Avenue, SE, you know that the new owner, to “reverse” that work has started at the site. For one

4 • CHRS News October 2011 Question: When Is “Fake” Not A Problem?

By Shauna Holmes and Nancy Metzger

he answer, according to TSeptember’s Preservation Café speaker, architect Carol Beach, is when faux (meaning “fake”) painting is used to create the illusion of an C arol B each courtesy photos architectural element or a different material. Another term is trompe l’oeil (“fool the eye”). Faux painting has a long and celebrated history, starting about 5,000 years ago in Mesopotamia when frescoes of gardens and other scenes were painted on the walls of villas of wealthy residents’ villas in an attempt to bring a garden spirit inside or perhaps to brighten a room. In a profusely illustrated talk, Ms. Beach traced the story of faux painting from its beginnings in the ancient civilizations through the Classical period (think of the frescoes of Pompeii, Greece and Rome) into the great works executed by the TOP: Painted wallpaper, New England, 1830s. bottom: Painted niche. Italian artist Michelangelo (Sistine Chapel ceiling) and the villas of painting tiles or even “Turkish carpets.” Walls the 1500s architect Palladio. Some continued shifted from simple plaster surfaces of the grand residences of Europe in to those looking like limestone block (painted urns in illusionist niches, popularity fit for an Italian villa, fancy wood burl for example) were also featured in into the panels, or brick work that successfully the talk by Ms. Beach who did her Victorian merged two different brick styles/ dissertation on the topic. era as colors and multiple repairs. By the 1700s (Georgian Period) decorative Painted furniture can highlight the softer woods were beginning to be finishes contemporary setting as successfully used and they needed to be painted were as it does traditional homes. One to help preserve them. So faux and applied particularly striking example shown decorative painting was often used to add was a low credenza painted in silver to dress up the pieces and make them richness and then “combed” for texture. look stylish. In Colonial America, near the high ceilings or create Even if you missed the fascinating where few could afford expensive the illusion of fancy plaster work, introduction, you will have a chance wallpaper, wall surfaces were painted marble floors or walls, or wood to attend a hands-on demonstration with landscape scenes to give the paneling. (The marbleized columns of faux painting at the November 16 impression of wallpaper. Stencils of the Building Museum are prime Preservation Café. Mark your calendar were extensively used, providing a examples from this period.) now and plan to attend because it will decorative touch in an economical But faux painting is definitely give you a chance to ask questions and and easy way. Wood-graining (using not a relic from the past, as Ms. consider faux painting, which is at paint to imitate exotic or more Beach showed with examples of home whether that home is traditional expensive woods) on both furniture both furniture and wall treatments or contemporary. ✯ and interior trim and doors was a executed in a contemporary manner. well-known decorative practice. Faux Floors were covered in “fake” marble

CHRS News October 2011 • 5 Bartholdi Fountain, continued from cover

signifying a city wall at the very top of the fountain.) The original lights around the large bowl were gas lamps, based on the design of Parisian street lamps. The Bartholdi fountain was the first L isa D ale J ones courtesy photo fountain to be lit at night, making it a modern marvel at the time. In 1915 the fountain was fitted with electrified white globes, and the globes remained until the current restoration. The new lanterns, based on the original gas lamps, were designed and created by the Klemm Reflector Company in Philadelphia. Leonard Gutekunst, president of the company, explains some of the design problems they had to solve, including bird- proofing the new lamps. “The original fixtures were gas, and…the Stephen T. Ayers and Holly H. Shimizu in front of the restored fountain. gas flame itself was enough to keep birds out, but the new fixtures are “It was a real honor for us to the central column. We had to use electric, so a number of steps were work on it. I’ve never seen casting of stainless steel plates and bolts on the taken to prevent bird entry while that size with that complexity. It has inside to reinforce it.” maintaining the original appearance amazing undercutting, and the molds While the fountain itself was of the lantern. The top cap has a they used to produce this must have being repaired and restored in cover to prevent building of nests; been incredible. It’s an incredibly Alabama, the basin it rests in was the bottom of the lantern cage has a well made piece, especially being being upgraded here in DC by perforated plate to allow any water to made three-sided. Most fountains are Grunley Construction Company of exit and dead bugs to fall through but made in fours. This is quite unusual. Rockville. The basin was repaired, prevent bird entry; and the constant There’s nothing else like it in the with new electrical wiring and spray from the fountain should world.” filtrated plumbing, and new concrete discourage most nesting anyway.” was poured and painted a dark The AOC wanted the lanterns to Repairs gray blue. New light fixtures were use LED bulbs, but there was nothing The entire weight of the large bowl installed around the circumference available for the lamps that worked on the fountain rests on the central and vines were trained to grow up adequately, in the right size, and that column and the backs of the heads of the light posts. Shimizu is grateful could function in a wet environment. the three sea nymphs—not on their they decided to redo the basin; “We Gutekunst points out that they used arms—so it is essential for the column just had an earthquake here, and the a regular medium base socket that to support the weight. Unfortunately, new basin stood up to it!” will accept an LED retrofit bulb, the interior of the main column was suitable for a wet environment, when Lighting in very bad condition, according to available. Shimizu: “There’s a panel opening at Lighting was an important part of In the meantime, the AOC is the base of the column, behind one of the fountain from the beginning. using compact fluorescent lamps the shells. We put on special suits and Bartholdi meant the fountain to (CFLs) in the fixtures, which are not actually crawled inside. There was a be an allegorical representation of only energy efficient, but they also lot of corrosion and rust.” water and light, indicating what provide the best light quality around Howell concurs, “We were was important to modern cities in the fountain. really surprised at the condition of the 1870s. (There is a battlement Continued on page 8

6 • CHRS News October 2011 Architect of the Capitol Addresses CHRS Membership

By Sharon Weiss

n September 22, CHRS was an office desirable—everyone wants a Statuary Hall. Contracts are in place Ohonored to once again welcome view of the Capitol Dome. to begin the process for the design the Architect of the Capitol, The recent hurricanes and and sculpture of new busts for both Stephen T. Ayers, to address us at a earthquake affected the Capitol Dick Cheney and Al Gore to become membership meeting. The meeting grounds. Interestingly enough, a part of the collection of busts of Vice took place in the Carriage House of the Capitol itself, which is made Presidents in the Senate Chamber. the newly renovated Hill Center, and of masonry, only had a few minor Mr. Ayers also reminded the CHRS included the membership approval of plaster cracks in the walls, but the membership of numerous volunteer this year’s CHRS budget. Rayburn Building, with a steel frame, opportunities for those interested, Mr. Ayers showed a photo-laden had much more wall damage. Mr. especially in the U.S. Botanic Garden presentation of the properties his Ayers noted that the sound of the and in the Capitol Visitor Center. ✯ office manages. The Architect of cast iron dome on the Capitol shifting the Capitol (AOC) is responsible around during the earthquake was Volunteer at the Botanic Garden: to the “terrifying.” (There was no danger of www.usbg.gov/education/ for the maintenance, operation, it collapsing.) get-involved.cfm development and preservation of The AOC is also responsible for Volunteer at the Visitor Center: 17.4 million square feet of buildings the preservation and stewardship of www.visitthecapitol.gov/cvc_ and more than 460 acres of land all the artwork and statuary within volunteer_flyer_2-2011.pdf throughout Capitol Hill. In addition the buildings. A new statue of Rosa to the U.S. Capitol, this includes the Parks is almost complete and is AOC YouTube channel: House and Senate office buildings, expected to be dedicated before www.youtube.com/user/AOCgov Capitol Visitor Center, the Library the end of the year and placed in of Congress buildings, the Supreme Court buildings, the U.S. Botanic Garden, the Capitol Power Plant, and other facilities. October Preservation Café Will Feature The AOC also is responsible for Green Roofs arranging for inaugural ceremonies and other major events on the Capitol With the current focus on environmentally green efforts, many of us have grounds. heard about the potential for green roofs to reduce rainwater runoff and One event that takes place every contribute to cleaner waterways, especially in urban areas like DC. Mark two years is the major office shuffle your calendar for CHRS’s October 19 Preservation Café, where Capitol when new members are elected in the Hill architect and CHRS board member Maurice Walters will talk about House and Senate. Mr. Ayers described “Green Roofs” from the perspective of a Capitol Hill homeowner. the elaborate process with a time- Drawing from his personal and professional experience, Mr. Walters lapse presentation of one office being will discuss the global, local, and personal benefits of green roofs; redone. The process is multiplied by how to assess whether your roof could withstand the load; and other approximately 235 office moves that considerations such as access and long-term maintenance. He will be have to be accomplished in just 30 joined by Scott Titanish from LiveRoof, a company that manufactures days! This is quite an undertaking, a modular green roof system which provides property owners with which involves completely emptying ready-to-install, pre-planted modules containing live plants selected for out the office, painting, cleaning and their specific region and rooftop environments. Mr. Titanish will bring putting the office back together again samples of LiveRoof modules and explain their design, installation, and for the next occupant. Members of maintenance. Congress choose their new offices “Green Roofs” will be held Wednesday, October 19, from 6:30–7:15 based on seniority, and can take a pm in the downstairs community room at Ebenezers Coffeehouse at 2nd virtual tour of each potential office and F Streets, NE. The Preservation Café is free, accessible, and open to online. Mr. Ayers said that it’s usually all in the Capitol Hill community; no reservations are necessary. the view out the window that makes

CHRS News October 2011 • 7 Bartholdi Fountain, continued from page 6 Welcome CHRS Testing the Fountain detail, as Shimizu points out: “The Supporters Once all the pieces were cleaned and new coating system protects it, looks repaired and the new lanterns were like bronze, and allows us to see all We thank the following new built, Howell says the next step was the detail work. The old coating had members, patrons, and sponsors. to assemble it at the shop. too many layers of paint, and some “We erected the fountain on a of the detail was lost. Just look at the NEW MEMBERS concrete pad right outside our office. fabric folds in the clothing, and the expressions on the sea nymphs’ faces!” Kim Jones We installed all the nozzles—there are Joseph & Margaret Keller seven of them—three turtles, three Back to Bartholdi Park Ben & Ariana Klay fish, and the castle.” Mervin & Ruby Shello But it didn’t work properly right After the fountain was finished earlier this year, the pieces were loaded back away. PATRONS “We didn’t have enough water onto two 18-wheelers and driven Leslie & Gary Barbour pressure in our shop to drive to Washington. Howell says it took Frank S. Harlem the fountain,” he says. “We had Robinson Iron only a day to put it Joan S. Keenan to borrow a hose from the fire together. They touched up the paint, Ralph Phillips & Alice Hall department and connect it to a fire did some fine-tuning, hooked it up Greg Vass hydrant. We got a good flow then!” to the plumbing and electrical wiring and made sure the water flows were The fountain wasn’t exactly SPONSORS invisible when it was set up. “The all running properly. fountain caused quite a stir around The Botanic Garden staff Brian Biles & Diane Rowland here,” says Howell. “The newspaper meanwhile had prepared the park Chuck Burger & Nancy Broers did a story the day we tested the water for the completion of the fountain, Albert & Margaret Crenshaw flow. It was on the front page. We had finishing the landscaping and Joseph & Margaret Keller a lot of people drive by to look at it.” installing chairs and benches so (new member) people can once again enjoy the Geoffrey & Terry Lewis The Color of the Fountain fountain and park. As Stephen Ayers Ritch Tindall & Michael Piziali None of the original finish survived puts it, “It’s such a beautiful place to SILVER SPONSORS under the layers of newer finishes. But walk through. When you come here there were clues. Shimizu took a field you feel the weight of the world lift Kathryn Powers trip to the National Gallery to view off your shoulders.” the small Statue of Liberty there to see So come, visit the fountain at the color Bartholdi may have had in Bartholdi Park, and enjoy this restored ✯ mind. As Howell explains, “We don’t gem at the foot of Capitol Hill. know the original color. Bartholdi used a color that emulated bronze. All accounts from the day talk about Capitol Hill House Histories ‘the bronze fountain from France.’ Frederick Law Olmsted told Congress CHRS has established a project to collect histories of Capitol Hill homes we’d be crazy not to buy the fountain and businesses. Eventually these will be placed on the CHRS website. for $6,000, as the bronze metal itself If you have a history that you would like to contribute, please send was worth more. They didn’t realize at to [email protected] with “House History” as the subject line. If the the time that it was iron.” history is available only in printed form, please mail a copy to: After testing the fountain, Capitol Hill Restoration Society (House History) Robinson Iron dismantled it again P.O. Box 15264 and added a series of paints to Washington DC 20003-0264 achieve a bronze look. They now call If you are willing to share, but do not wish to send your the mixture of tan and two darker only copy, please contact Paul Cromwell at (202) 543-7530 or colors the “Bartholdi Finish.” [email protected] to make arrangements to have copies made. A benefit of stripping the old finish is the reappearance of lost

8 • CHRS News October 2011 Virginia Avenue Tunnel Update

By Shauna Holmes

n September 14, over 120 Department of Transportation be a Project Design Concepts Meeting Omembers of the Capitol Hill (DDOT), CSX, and cooperating later this fall. Given the major impacts community attended a Virginia agencies will be reviewing comments this enormous project is expected to Avenue Tunnel Environmental on the project that were submitted have on the Capitol Hill community, Assessment and Section 106 Public at the Scoping meeting, as well CHRS will do its best to keep its Scoping Meeting at Van Ness as all other Scoping comments members as up-to-date as possible Elementary School. The presentation from the public, which need to be regarding this project. A letter CHRS boards from the Scoping meeting submitted by October 14. General sent to FHWA requesting Consulting are now posted online on the comments about the project may be Party status during the Section 106 VirginiaAvenueTunnel.com website submitted at any time throughout the review can be found on our website at www.virginiaavenuetunnel.com/ Environmental Assessment process. If at www.chrs.org, along with the project-resources. The website also you have not already provided your reply from FHWA. Section 106 review has other information about the comments but wish to do so, or if considers project effects on historic project, including a description of you have questions about the project, resources such as the Capitol Hill CSX’s proposed plans and project you can submit them by e-mail at Historic District and the 100+-year- milestones. [email protected]. old tunnel itself, along with ways to The Federal Highway The next public meeting about the avoid, minimize, and/or mitigate Administration (FHWA), the DC Virginia Avenue Tunnel is expected to adverse effects. ✯

Renovation of Northeast Public Library

By Vincent Morris, President of Friends of the Northeast Library

any Hill residents know about other recently renovated DC Public for a full year, reopening in the spring Mthe landscaping and window Library (DCPL) branch libraries that of 2013. replacement at the Northeast Public are similar to Northeast: Petworth The Friends of the Northeast Library two years ago. The project and Takoma Park. The goal is to Library (FONEL) is taking the lead resulted in a beautiful garden, make Northeast have the look and in working with DCPL and the flagstone patio and seating area feel of a historic library, but with contractors on the project. As with facing the intersection of Maryland improved conveniences of modern other Friends groups, FONEL is a Avenue and 7th Street, NE. libraries—such as easy Internet access group of volunteers that advocates Now the second part of that and well-lit spaces. on behalf of Northeast and raises project—a full interior renovation—is Much of the budget covers money through book sales to support soon to begin. Starting next spring, things that are essential, but not activities and efforts at the branch. construction will begin on a $10 million necessarily exciting: new plumbing, Besides reviewing the project at project that will be one of the most electrical work, a sprinkler system, our meetings and discussing it with significant renovations to happen at bathrooms, better access, hazardous CHRS, we intend to hold additional the library since it was built in 1931. material abatement, eliminating code meetings this fall to gather input. The The Georgian Revival Style violations, a new HVAC system and a project will be reviewed by the ANC building still has much of its original new security alarm. and by the city’s historic preservation woodwork. The plan is for the However, there is great incentive staff. We will be distributing renovation to stay true to the original for the community to get involved. information about the project when concept and preserve the look and That’s because the architect, who will we hold our annual fall book sale and feel of the building as it appeared begin work later this fall, is committed children’s party on November 5, 2011. when it first opened. to hearing from library patrons. If you have any questions, please If you are curious as to how that Once the construction starts, it’s email [email protected]. ✯ might look, it’s worth visiting two likely that the library will be closed

CHRS News October 2011 • 9 Looking Back On Capitol Hill

By Nancy Metzger

ost Capitol Hill residents Tuesday, January 1st, 1828: This day employed as yesterday, labourers, Mwere very surprised to find air light and variable. Riggers not at some employed trimming coals themselves in an earthquake this work. Labourers and Ordinary men which were set out of the Schooner summer. If we had paid better employed in the for noon putting Rising Sun, some cutting junk to be attention to our history, we wouldn’t molds in boxes on board of a scow sent out to be picked into oakum. have been so surprised, as the which was delivered to Rosenneck Ordinary men on various duties of occurrence of an earthquake was wood and discharging a long boat the Yard, sent out to E. Simms 3424 recorded in the March 9, 1828 entry or scow that came from Columbia lbs. junk to be picked into oakum. of the Washington Navy Yard foundry with sixteen cannonades Hired Betsy Howard’s horse and cart Station Log, that daily compilation Oxen hauling timber to the saw and widow Speiden’s horse and cart, of significant events and occurrences pit and saw mill supplying steam oxen and horses on various duties at the Yard, including a record of the furnace with wood Bell did not ring and of the yard, hauling coals from weather, temperature, clouds and after dinner consequently no work in the Rising Sun. other pertinent details. the afternoon being new year’s day. Thursday, March 13th, 1828: This Earlier this summer CHRS day pleasant and clear weather, wind received a communication from Wednesday, January 2nd, 1828: For variable from N.W. to N.E. Riggers John G. Sharp of Concord, California the first part of the day moderate employed about the Potomac, rigging, concerning a transcription he had breezes from the South West and detailed four labourers scraping the made of the Log from November heavy rains at intervals in the after sloop of war St. Louis, the remainder 1822–March 1830. We are very part more moderate with light rains of the labourers working about coals appreciative he shared his work with Riggers employed at the Potomac (oxen hauling timber the bull being CHRS. We’ve selected a few entries rigging Ordinary men getting some sore was taken out of the yard. Widow to share that give the flavor of the water casks for rain casks from the Spieden’s horse and cart and Mrs. activities, concerns, and some people officers dwelling labourers did not Howard’s horse and cart hauling coals at the Navy Yard. work today from the schooner Rising Sun, yd As Mr. Sharp notes in his January 10th, 1828: The first part cart hauling from the Rose in Bloom introduction to the material, daily of this day heavy rains & cloudy Ordinary men went to Alexandria work assignments of the largely weather, the latter part cloudy and with Mr. Kelly, at two they returned, civilian workforce were a prominent moderate breezes from N.E. Riggers rec from Mr. Simms 239 lbs of oakum. feature of the Log, which is helpful employed working Tarpaulin for for us as it gives a fuller picture of covering cannon at Green Leafs Point, Friday, March 14th, 1828: The first the workings of the Navy Yard. The Labourers putting planks into the and middle part of the day, moderate March 12, 1828 and March 13, 1828 scow to be sent to Alexandria and breezes from the S.W. and flying entries note Betsey Howard and Ann left the wharf at about Noon. She clouds, at 4 p.m. Heavy squall of Speiden as horse cart drivers, the first returned at midnight, after delivering wind and rain from the S.W. at 5 the and second females for whom we the molds. Oxen hauling timber to wind shifted around to the N.E. With have documentation of employment and from Saw Pit and Saw Mill, Oxen heavy rain, thunder and lightning at the yard. As with other workers, and Horse Carts hauling dirt & in at 8 p.m. pleasant and clear weather. they were paid on a per diem basis. other duties of the Yard &c. Riggers, Labourers oxen and carts (Note: Mr. Sharp retained original employed as yesterday, send out 2504 spelling, capitalization, punctuation, Sunday, March 9th, 1828: The day lbs of junk to Mr. Simms and rec. 258 etc. and entries are generally moderate breezes from the N.E. and lbs of oakum, and in discharging the provided in full.) cloudy, misty weather a slight shock of Rose in Bloom of her cargo of coals. an earthquake about 11 o’clock, P.M. Carts employed as yesterday.

Wednesday, March 12th, 1828: The Monday, June 16th, 1828: The first first and middle part of the day part of this day cloudy weather, cloudy weather and variable winds at wind from the SE to SW the middle sun set commenced raining. Riggers and ladder part sultry weather with

10 • CHRS News October 2011 light rain about midnight we were Although the Navy Yard writer shake under my hand and the floor appraised by the beating of the seemed rather blasé about the under my feet. The window shutters drum and ringing of the yard bell of earthquake, across town the resident rattled as if shaken by the wind, and afire, took out one Engine, there not of the White House, President there was a momentary sensation as being enough men to take out the John Quincy Adams, recorded of the heaving of a ship on the waves. other, at about 1 AM discovered the the following in his diary: “There It continued about two minutes, then fire to be in George Town, at 2 the was this evening the shock of an ceased. It was about eleven at night. I Engines returned, Riggers employed earthquake, the first which I ever immediately left writing, and went to knotting yarns and wharfted one distinctly noticed at the moment my bedchamber, where my wife was tenth of rope. Labourers stowing when it happened. I was writing in in bed, much alarmed. “✯ timber and docking knees. Ordinary this book, when the table began to men moving tin from the Cooper Shop to the Sail Loft over the Navy Store. Oxen hauling timber & knees, Terminology: “Ordinary” refers to those assigned to ships held in reserve horses hauling and three labourers or in for repair so they were available for duties in the Yard. “Riggers” discharged for fighting in the Yard were used on ships to fit masts, spars, sails, lines, etc. and when in the Yard they used their skills in lifting and hauling. “Oakum” is a tarred fiber Friday, July 4th, 1828: The day used for caulking or packing the joints of timbers in wooden vessels (and moderate breeze and flying clouds sometimes found around the windows in old houses). It was recycled from the N.W., cool for the Season, from old tarry ropes and cordage (“junk”) that were painstakingly the Bell did not ring to day and all the unraveled and taken apart into fiber. The craft mentioned in these entries Yard Boats went to the procession, in were the Potomac, Rising Sun, St. Louis, and Rose in Bloom. the evening returned.

Zoning Briefs, continued from page 3

exception is necessary to provide emergency access to the roof and will only be visible from the alley. The Committee voted unanimously to 2nd Annual CHRS Fun Fall Auction support the application.

Tuesday, November 29 • Hill Center (Old Naval Hospital) 18280. The applicant is constructing a rear addition to 630 A Street, NE, CHRS will once again be hosting a Fun Fall Auction! and is increasing the lot occupancy We are now accepting auction items. We are looking for from 57% to 64%. The addition will weekend getaways, original art, rare books, furniture, kitchen extend a nonconforming (currently and household items, etc. Everything including the kitchen 4.3 feet with 6 feet required) open sink. (Oh, wait a minute—we already have that!) court (or dogleg). The applicant All items that are donated are tax deductible. needs a special exception to increase the lot occupancy and to extend the To make a donation, please contact Michelle Carroll at: open court. The committee voted to [email protected] or (202) 544-7900. support the application. ✯ We look forward to seeing you at the Fun Fall Auction!

CHRS News October 2011 • 11 Capitol Hill Restoration Society 420 Tenth Street, SE Washington, DC 20003

Mark Your Calendar!

OCTOBER November Saturdays, April 16–November 19 3 Monday, 6:30 pm 7 Monday, 6:30 pm 9 am–noon (rain or shine) CHRS Historic Preservation Committee, CHRS Historic Preservation Committee, H Street NE Freshfarm Market, Kirby House, 420 10th Street, SE, first Kirby House, 420 10th Street, SE, first 625 H Street, NE (across from H Street floor. Details: Nancy Metzger, 546-1034 floor. Details: Nancy Metzger, 546-1034 Self Storage). Fresh fruits and vegetables, pasture-raised meats, local dairy, breads 13 Thursday, 7:30 pm 10 Thursday, 7:30 pm and baked goods, cut flowers and more. CHRS Zoning Committee, Kirby House, CHRS Zoning Committee, Kirby House, www.freshfarmmarkets.org 420 10th Street, SE, first floor. Details: 420 10th Street, SE, first floor. Details: Gary Peterson, 547-7979 Gary Peterson, 547-7979. 18 Tuesday, 6:30 pm 15 Tuesday, 6:30 pm CHRS Board of Directors, Capitol Hill CHRS Board of Directors, Capitol Hill Townhomes, 750 6th Street, SE, second Townhomes, 750 6th Street, SE, second floor. Details: Beth Purcell, 622-4303 floor. Details: Beth Purcell, 622-4303 19 Wednesday, 6:30–7:15 pm 16 Wednesday, 6:30–7:15 pm CHRS Preservation Café, “Green Roofs” CHRS Preservation Café, “Demonstration with Capitol Hill architect Maurice of Faux Finishing” featuring DC architect Walters and Scott Titanish of LiveRoof. Carol Beach. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 2nd Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 2nd & F Streets, & F Sts., NE, downstairs; free, accessible, NE, downstairs; free, accessible, no no reservations needed. Details: reservations needed. Details: Shauna Holmes, 546-5211. Shauna Holmes, 546-5211 29 Tuesday (Time TBD) Second Annual CHRS Fun Fall Auction. Hill Center (Old Naval Hospital), 921 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.