Clock Tower Project

(Photo Journal of Clock Tower Rehabilitation)

Jefferson County Courthouse   1892

Clock Tower Rehabilitation Project   2001-2007

Project Summary

The Clock Tower Rehabilitation Project primarily addressed structural deficiencies in the upper portion of the tower.  Routine inspections in 1998 had noted structural deterioration in the area of the Clock Tower above the third floor of the Courthouse.  Although no significant damage resulted, the Nisqually Earthquake on February 28, 2001 increased the sense of urgency to address structural problems with the structure completed in 1892.  The Clock Tower is part of the Jefferson County Courthouse, which is the keystone of Port Townsend’s Victorian heritage.  It is the most prominent landmark in Port Townsend from land or sea.

Project development and funding efforts gained momentum during 2002 thru 2005.  The plan to retrofit the Clock Tower was developed to fit with a potential future upgrade of the Courthouse building itself.  The plan to retrofit the Clock Tower focused on addressing the greatest need first, while attempting to reduce cost to help the project be achievable as soon as possible.

Prior to the start of construction, Public Meetings were held with the neighborhood to help mitigate impacts to the community.  Construction work began in the summer of 2006.  The project required the full scaffolding of the tower.  Four Clock Tower floors were replaced.  Vertical reinforcement of the tower was provided by core drilling into the un-reinforced masonry corner ‘turrets’ of the tower.  This was followed by the placement of reinforcing steel and grout in the 6 inch diameter, 40 foot long core drilled holes.  The historic clock and bell were completely rebuilt, including the 9 foot diameter clock dials.  The Clock and bell operate in their original manner, and are wound on a weekly schedule.  Exterior metal work was replaced or repaired.  Extensive masonry restoration was carried out.  The large window at the second and third floor was completely rebuilt.

After the completion of the Clock Tower project, the Site Improvement project was completed.  This projected upgraded site utilities, parking, landscaping, accessibility and pedestrian use of the Courthouse site.  A public flag raising ceremony was held on June 14, 2007 to celebrate the successful completion of this project.

All work was done with the building fully occupied and open for business.  The support of the Offices (and Courts) in the Courthouse, the visiting public, and the community were key to the success of this project.

Please view the photo journal on this webpage.  Photo panels are also on display on the Basement Floor of the Courthouse.

In addition to local funds, this project was possible with the support of our Funding Partners:

WA State Historic County Courthouse Grant Program

National Park Service - Save America’s Treasures

 WA State Historical Society Heritage Grant Program

US Dept of Housing & Urban Development - Economic Development Initiative

National Trust for Historic Preservation - Professional Services Grant

Port Townsend Main Street

Questions?  
Contact Gordon Ramstrom at 360-385-9380
or via e-mail at gramstrom@co.jefferson.wa.us
 

10/17/08

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