Historic City Building Gets New Roof
They don’t make city buildings like they used to. While this well known phrase brings to mind quality workmanship known to buildings of days gone by, it doesn’t mean historic buildings will last forever. When it comes to longevity one of the most important pieces of a historic structure, like the Sistersville City Building, is its roof. Work began last week on the new roof for the Sistersville City Building by Shield Roofing & Construction, LLC; their main office is located in Morgantown, WV. The new roof comes with a 40 year warranty on materials and a 20 year warranty on craftsmanship. Mike Groom, of Shield Roofing, said “Thank you for the opportunity to bid on your project. Shield Roofing prides itself on providing the best customer experience possible.”
Sistersville City Council accepted the bid from Shield Roofing for a total cost of $67,069.11. Funding for the project is a result of a grant awarded to the city by the Harry E. and Olive T. Barth Charitable Trust Fund in the amount of $40,000. The remaining monies will come from city funds.
Sistersville City Hall, also known as the City Building, was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 5, 1972. It was built in 1897 and is a two-story red brick and stone building. The property is located at the intersection of Main and Diamond Streets on a circular plot surrounded by an iron fence which was popular in the period. The 16 sided unique structure features centrally located three sided bay windows on each section. The building has served to house city offices, and for several years (1913 – 1964) served as the home for the Public Library. At one time the second story was used for conventions and social gatherings offering a small stage and one large open room.
The new shingled roof will be replacing the current slate roofing which had fallen into disrepair.