If you have driven by the First Presbyterian Church on West Main Street next to Central Bank, you notice scaffolding being erected around the belltower. Actually, the church has commissioned 606 Masonry LLC to repair the parapet or the protective wall around the edge of the belltower.
The Richmond First Presbyterian Church was founded in 1827, and the original building was erected on West Main in 1828. The present church was the third building constructed on the present site in 1921 according to Madison County Historical Society Records.
606 Masonry LLC from Wollum, Kentucky is working with the church to secure the parapet, the belltower, and parts of the roof. The company’s website states “our masonry professionals transform brick, stone, and concrete into stunning durable structures that stand the test of time.”
Jim Exline, the chairman of the Administration Committee at First Presbyterian and retired construction professional, explained to me last Sunday that he believes the committee chose the best company for the task.
Gil Shew, my brother and the Treasurer at First Presbyterian, states that the company is working to secure the building and more scaffolding with be added as the work continues. He also stated that he asked a representative of 606 Masonry how they got their name and was told their company is located in the “606” area code and they do “masonry” work.
The present church building includes the central tower or belltower which rises from the steeply gabled roof, and the cost of the church construction in 1921 was $85,000. Today, the repair work on the parapet and roof is three times more than the cost of the original structure.
