Please join APT-DVC and the Lower Merion Conservancy for a Members Only event that includes lectures and live demonstration of historic masonry repair techniques at the standing remnants of tenement houses adjacent to Barker’s Mill along Mill Creek. Registration is strictly limited, sign up today to save your spot.
Pre-registration required. If you are not able to attend, please contact the event coordinator so that we can arrange attendance for a participant on the waiting list. This event has been submitted to AIA for 3 LU.
Lectures:
Site History Lecture: Kathleen Abplanalp, PhD, Lower Merion Conservancy
The tenement buildings in Rolling Hill Park date to the mid-nineteenth century and are associated with the Barker Mill, the last functioning mill in Lower Merion Township. The Barker Mill, which ceased operation by the 1930s, was once at the center of a thriving economy that produced manufactures including rifles, paper, textiles, and carpets. Like other mills on the Mill Creek, it was served by a community of workers who lived in on-site tenement housing. The tenements, which survive as ruins, are evidence of the community's role in this economy.
Structural Condition Assessment Discussion: Justin Spivey, PE, APT RP, Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.
WJE performed a structural condition assessment of the buildings in 2017 and developed a stabilization concept that would extend the longevity of their remaining walls and allow closer access for visitation. Justin will discuss the challenges of preserving ruined structures, techniques for stabilizing unreinforced masonry, and the stabilization concept for the tenement house walls.
Mortar Joint Preparation and Repointing Demonstration: Chris Hertz, Premier Building Restoration
Good repointing practices guarantee the long life of the mortar joint, the wall, and the historic structure. The demonstration will introduce principles and work practices needed to repoint historic stone structures using breathable lime mortar.
Supplemental Anchorage Demonstration: Kent Crawford, Cintec
When the structural integrity of historic masonry walls is compromised, supplemental anchorage can be used. Kent Crawford will demonstrate how Cintec Reinforcement Systems can be used in this application.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Attendees will have to walk down to the ruins from the parking lot at the top of Rolling Hill Park (1301 Rose Glen Road, Gladwyne). We will meet in the parking lot at 10 am and walk down to the tenements. It is about a 10 minute walk and the path is steep and rocky.
Please wear sturdy, close-toed walking shoes. We also encourage everyone to bring a hard hat. If you do not own one, we will provide one for you.
Bathrooms:
There is NO bathroom access in the park. Nearby bathroom locations will be provided, but require a drive. Please plan accordingly.
Covid-19 Precautions:
Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic all attendees, speakers, and event volunteers are asked to follow CDC Covid-19 safety protocol. Proper mask wearing (over the nose and mouth), social distancing of 6’ or more, and hand sanitization will be expected at all times during the event. We also encourage everyone to bring water, and personal snacks for before and after the event.
Register HERE: