First Church of Lancaster
Designed by renowned American architect Charles Bulfinch and a National Landmark, the First Church of Christ Unitarian in Lancaster is an excellent example of the Neoclassical blending of Georgian and Federal styles that characterizes this architect’s work. Recognized as Bulfinch’s finest ecclesiastical work, the church has been the centerpiece of the Lancaster town green since it was constructed in 1816. A bell in the church steeple, originally cast by the Paul Revere Foundry in 1824, still calls townspeople to worship every Sunday morning.
In 2004 Menders, Torrey & Spencer performed a comprehensive evaluation and documentation of existing conditions at the church including the exterior envelope, structural framework, interior finishes, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. The final report addressed safety and universal access requirements and made recommendations for maintenance and preservation. This study enabled the Church to receive matching grants from the Massachusetts Historical Commission and the Getty Foundation Conservation Fund for restoration work and further study of the building’s historic fabric. The Getty grant funded an historic structure report as well as an expert forum and white paper on the introduction of HVAC systems into historic structures.