The four-year restoration project to rebuild a damaged Pacific icon is approaching the finish line. The Historic First Baptist Church restoration committee and church leaders continue to host fundraising activities and prepare to complete the restoration and turn the rebuilt church over to Pastor Robert Stevenson and the congregation by Thanksgiving Day.
Four years after flood water washed through the historic frame church and education building, destroying the interior – for the fourth time in recent memory – plans to rebuild the 170 year old structure, with modern fixtures and materials, are nearing completion.
“It may seem like a long time to all the individuals who contributed to the project and watched the progress but a huge amount of work has been accomplished,” said Norbert Gildehaus, who co-chairs the restoration project with Bob Masson and Brad Reed. “We’re now focused on what still needs to be done.”
The flooding building had to be completed gutted, destroyed fixtures removed, mold cleaned from walls and floors. It was then elevated above the flood plain to avoid future flooding. Mismatched windows were placed with new. Insulation was installed in the ceiling of both buildings. All new electric service, heating and air-conditioning, and plumbing have been installed. Finish work to qualify for occupancy permits so church services can be held is being scheduled.
Miner changes were made to the historic structure – a simple pediment and narrow window were installed above the front door, as well as two narrow side windows that will be filled with stained glass and lighted from behind.
For the past two years, the project was sidetracked by the COVID pandemic but it is now approaching the finish line. Church leaders are not waiting for drywall, paint and polish to re-launch the spiritual life of Historic First Baptist.
Between now and Thanksgiving Day 2021, the target reopening day for the historic frame church at, a flood of activities, fundraising continues and finish work is being scheduled.
The restoration committee organized a community pilgrimage to a St. Louis Cardinals Games against the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, July 22 and hosted the second annual Turtle Johnson poker run July 24 as a fundraisers. A Gospel sing to match the one hosted by Gray Summit Baptist Church is scheduled for August 15.
Saying it is appropriate to work and worship at the same time, Pastor Robert Stevenson said it is time to make a joyful noise.
“The target date of Thanksgiving is important,” Pastor Stevenson said. “It gives us energy to what we have to do before then.”
