Since 1806, the steeple of the Second Church has been a prominent fixture in the Codman Square neighborhood. Well, last week, according to the Dorchester Reporter, the base and lantern were removed for some much-needed repairs.
Steeplejacks from American Steeple and Tower Co. of Salem removed the dome and lantern tower via crane over the past two weeks. It is the first time since it was built that the steeple has been removed. These repairs are part of a much larger project to fix and improve the historic church.
The Paul Revere & Sons bell is still sitting securely in the belfry, but it’s hoped that the bell can be repaired to working order to play on special occasions. The glass clock – once gifted by Walter Baker of Baker Chocolate fame – is also on the wish list for repairs.
According to the Dorchester Report, most of the funding for the project at Second Church has come from the Community Preservation Act.
You can read the full article with photos here.
Image – postcard of the historic church in Codman Square
Editor’s note – my great-grandfather John Hagerty was a steeplejack who traveled all over the country repairing steeples. So he’d love this story.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
