Please join the AIA Philadelphia Historic Preservation Committee and the Association for Preservation Technology – Delaware Valley Chapter for a tour of the existing historic Saint Mary of the Assumption Church and School renewal site in Manayunk which is about undergo a repurposing and renovation to become a unique residential campus by Campbell Thomas & Company and and CaVA Architects.
The existing historic Church, Rectory and School will become truly special apartments allowing these beautiful buildings to have new life and purpose after sitting vacant for several years. The historically certified German Catholic Church was built in 1849 to serve the surrounding German speaking immigrant community. The Wissahickon Schist Church exemplifies stylistic Germanic religious architecture of its time. The adjacent large parking lot was once home to the Liebert & Obert Brewing Company building, circa 1873, which was torn down after it closed in 1948. The parking lot will become home to 18 new townhouses and a landscaped parking area.
This project is a very interesting example of what is happening all over Europe and North America with historically significant religious structures which have out lasted their original purpose.
The tour is rain or shine, so come prepared! Parking is available on-site but attendees are also encouraged to take SEPTA Regional Rail to the Manayunk Station, just a few minutes’ walk below St. Mary of the Assumption. Please wear appropriate footwear (no sandals!) and be prepared to sign a waiver of liability beforehand as we will be touring an in-progress site.