Roof Repairs 2021

When the rear roof was being repaired, the original sheathing boards were exposed. In more modern construction, sheathing boards (now mostly plywood) run horizontally over rafters. The sheathing at the Hooper runs vertically. This indicates the presence of purlins, or horizontal structural members, used in early post and beam construction. This rear roof has now been repaired thanks to donations from the community, grants from MassDevelopment, and The Lynch Foundation.

Schrage Gallery Closet Repairs 2021

While repairing a water damaged wall inside a closet on the 2nd floor, the archaic construction of the mansion was exposed. Hand-split lath, hundreds of years old, was laid over the timber framing, and brick infill, called nogging, within the timber frame. Nogging was used to provide structural stability, some insulation and perhaps moderate fire protection. This is just one of the many sneak peaks revealed during the three-phase renovation led by board member and preservation architect Bruce Greenwald. This work is being funded through tireless grant writing and fundraising by Charles Gessner.

Chimney Repairs 2021

The chimneys at the rear of the mansion had been badly deteriorated. As part of the Centennial renovation project, Chris Power, of Power Masonry, repaired and repointed these structures to create a safe and stable condition. It was decided to keep the slight lean in the rear chimney as a cost saving measure and to preserve its character. Chimneys will tend to lean in the direction of the southern sun. As the northern joints begin to open over time, freeze/thaw cycles will open these joints, pushing the structure toward the warmer side. The roof was also repaired. New flashing and new shingles were installed to keep the building watertight. An “old timer” once told Bruce that “a good hat and a good pair of shoes are all that you need” to keep a building secure.

Wall Repairs 2021

The weather enclosure at the rear of the mansion also had deteriorated badly. These walls were stripped, a new air and water barrier was added, and new clapboards applied. In addition, a mechanical service line that was badly installed and snaked across this façade was relocated, and downspouts were moved to provide better water management. Once the exterior envelope of the building has been restored, the focus can be turned toward the interior areas that need help.

Window Repairs 2021

The windows in the King Hooper Mansion had also fallen into disrepair. Everything needs maintenance over time. Window Woman of New England has been working with the Marblehead Arts Association to restore the windows on an as needed basis to repair the worst units. During our phased centennial renovations, the windows at the street façade were the first to be brought back to life.

The following is a view of the front façade where these windows reside, however, one cannot tell the difference from before and after. That is the sign of good preservation work. One thing that was discovered during this process was the exposure of some old sash pulleys. These were used with internal ropes to ease the movement in opening and closing the windows. Typically, these are made of metals, but the early ones uncovered at the King Hooper Mansion were made of wood!

Phase 2 Repairs 2022

Phase 2 of the centennial renovation work continues with much needed repairs to the east, or rear, façade of the building, facing the wonderful garden. This wall will undergo the same treatment as the rear of the front section of the mansion.

Unfortunately, the stairway from the tavern level to the garden partially collapsed in 2021. This stairway is being rebuilt by Joel White Construction in accordance with drawings and supervision by D. Bruce Greenwald, Architect.

Kitchen Renovations, 2018

Thanks to a generous donation by Peggy Schrage and design assist from then executive director Patti Baker.

Great thanks go to the Cottage Garden Club for their great care of the beautiful garden that graces the mansion’s access to Hanover Court. This photo shows the garden being prepared for a plant sale sponsored by the club.