127-year-old Library Roof Restored Thanks to the Community

By Cass Jacoby, RCS Reporter. 

The town of Pequot, Connecticut raises $1.5 million in donations to restore historic library roof. 

Fixing the roof of the Pequot Library was a long overdue project. According to the architecture firm Pirie Associates who directed the restoration, it was “an urgent priority,” not only to preserve the entire structure, but also to protect the library’s special collections of rare books, manuscripts and archives.  

Work was completed this summer, with a ribbon cutting held on July 14 to celebrate the new roof. General contractors who specialize in historic building restoration Kronenberger and Sons Restoration, finished the project in around 10 months. Kronenberger and Sons Restoration has also worked on the Mark Twain House and many other historic buildings.  

“We were honored to guide the renovation that burnished this exquisite architectural gem; its robust texture, color and detail are a perfect reflection of the unique treasures found within,” Laura Pirie, with Pirie Associates told Fairfield Citizen. 

It was no small feat to replace the original red tile roof. The historic roofs layout consisted of four different shapes as well as dormers gables, pyramids and chimneys that needed to be sealed watertight. The roof’s original underlayment also needed to be replaced alongside the gutters and flashings. 

Additionally, the $1.6 million project included restoring the stained-glass windows in the auditorium and strengthening the foundational elements beneath the front steps and portico. 

According to the Fairfield Citizen, the original roof was built in 1893, four years after the library was founded by Southport residents Virginia Marquand Monroe and Elbert B. Monroe. The building opened to the public in 1894 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. It has also been recognized by the Connecticut chapter of the American Institute of Architects with a Connecticut Treasures Award in 2018.  

Now with the new roof, the history of this building continues to be celebrated. During construction, a time capsule was put in the attic eaves. The capsule contains letters to future library staff and mementos of the past year. During the 50-year anniversary of the new roof in 2071, the capsule will be opened.  

This project couldn't have happened without the town of Pequot raising the money necessary to make these repairs. A total of 355 gifts and more than 200 donors participating in the “Sponsor-a-Tile” program helped support the library’s fundraising campaign.  

“The outstanding support of the Southport-Fairfield community has been tremendously inspiring,” Stephanie J. Coakley, the library’s executive director, told Fairfield Citizen. “Pequot Library’s dedicated patrons and business supporters, as well as the Town of Fairfield, generously helped us care for one of Fairfield’s most revered public buildings and for that we will be forever grateful.” 

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Photo credit: Fairfield Citizen