Restoring First Methodist Weatherford’s

Historic Bell Tower

We are starting the restoration work on our beloved historic bell tower. For well over 130 years, the iconic bell tower of First Methodist Church has been a prominent feature of Weatherford’s skyline. It rises high on Main Street as a beacon to the city that the light of Christ is offered here. For the community, the ringing of the bell sings praises over our neighbors, and it’s great longevity represents the faithfulness of our God to this community in which our church was planted so many years ago. Our work to repair this great symbol will be a statement to the city that we are committed to continually offering Christ here.

While there have been small repairs and some repainting done over the past century, some significant work needs to be done now on the sheet metal exterior, the plywood underneath, the window frames, the domed roof and the weather vane. A new weatherproof membrane will be installed to protect the interior of the bell tower, and the new sheet of tin coated stainless steel siding will be painted to the original three colors (looking very similar in color to the courthouse). For a number of months, scaffolding will surround the bell tower, but we are hopeful that a path will be created so as to not block the doors or the ramp into the north entryway. Using the specialty materials mentioned above along with proven historic building restoration techniques, it is expected that the bell tower will last for another 130 years.

The total cost of the project (which includes the contractor, architect and a contingency fund) will be $1.7 million. Gratefully, we have received $800,000 in gifts to-date, and will need to raise $900,000 more. You can donate here, or make a multi-year pledge to support this project.

Thank you for your pledge!

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