Historic Preservation Archives

Fall River Arts Association

Greater Fall River Arts Association

Fall River, MA

This project works in line with the goals of the Fall River Master Plan to “preserve and enhance historic resources” as well as “assist non-profits in preserving their structure”. The main efforts being the addition of a new accessible entrance, new exterior stairs, and a new accessible toilet room, as well as the restoration of 12 windows in drastic states of deterioration.

The work done by Civitects will be a continuation of the restoration efforts that the Art Association has akready begin to maintain and protect the historic character of the building. This work includes refinishing the original wood floors, repairing original bookcases, restoring the stained glass windows, and the organization of a “Spindles and Columns” fundraiser to aid the restoration of the porch.

Fall River Central Fire Station

Central Fire Station

Fall River, MA

This project consists of the restoration of the exterior facades of the Central Fire Station in Fall River, MA. This includes the restoration of brick and stone work, as well as upgrades to the windows and doors.

FRHS Borden Gallery

Douglas Hills Jr. & Joan Louise Borden Gallery

Fall River, MA

This project consisted of the design and construction of the new Douglas Hills Jr. & Joan Louise Borden Gallery at the Fall River Historical Society. This new gallery space allows th Historical Society to have more space for rotating exhibits. All work was completed with careful attention to the preservation of the buildings orignal structure.

Massasoit Fire House No. 5

Massasoit Fire House No. 5 Study

Fall River, MA

56 Water Street

56 Water Street Study

Fall River, MA

The existing building located at 56 Water Street is what remains of a 3 ½ story Greek Revival Style masonry building, constructed around 1845. From 1853 to 1876, it served as the headquarters for the Metacomet Bank, later becoming part of the American Printing Company complex. From the 1880s through the early 1930s, the building was used as a storehouse for the printing company and later served as their offices for several years. In 1937, American Printing Company complex, including the building on the corner of Water and Anawan Street, was purchased by the Firestone Tire & Rubber Company. On October 11, 1941, the upper stories of the building were destroyed in a massive fire that started in the mills across the street. The remnants of the upper floors were removed, resulting in the one story structure seen today.

Civitects PC was asked to create an existing conditions study and preservation plan for the building located at the corner of Water and Anawan Streets in Fall River, Massachusetts. Our existing conditions evaluation began with a survey of the property, observing elements of the building such as the condition of the masonry, mortar joints, windows, doors, and other architectural features. Civitects also researched the building utilization history using resources such as maps, newspaper clippings, and historic photographs. Based on our observations, recommendations were made intended to preserve the quality and aesthetics of the historic fabric following the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and the National Parks Service’s Preservation Briefs.