February 22, 2018
Work Begins to Restore NoMad Landmark St. Sava Cathedral
It has been nearly two years since an Easter Eve fire raced through St. Sava, destroying the historic and architectural landmark. So severe was the damage that supports had to be added to the remaining structure until decisions were made about the future of this great neighborhood church. Read more about the St. Sava and the fire here. See photos of the church before the fire here.
PHOTO CREDIT: © DAVID LUBARSKY — ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Now, scaffolding has been erected on all the inside walls of the church and on the exterior of the apse. This is great news for the NoMad District — the church is one of our real gems and links with the past. The church’s website reports: “Following the removal of a huge amount of debris, the restoration of Saint Sava Cathedral continues to progress steadily. The current scope of work, which consists of the removal of the ornamental limestone from the church’s interior, is almost finished. Upon completion of this task, the repair of the damaged central and upper part of the granite retaining walls, installation of the roof structure, flooring, and installation of windows and doors will follow. If all goes according to plan, the completion of this phase is anticipated by mid-year.”
St Sava’s is the Mother Church of the Serbian Orthodox Community in the United States and was formerly a Trinity Church Chapel. This beautiful church hosted the weddings of many in Gilded Age high society, including that of Jane Austen, and the funerals of many dignitaries, including that of Roscoe Conkling, were held here.
The cost of restoring this masterpiece will be substantial. If you would like to help, please go to the St. Sava website, where there is a button to donate to this great cause.