Looking at Architectural Salvage from 401 Sophia Street

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The demolition of 401 Sophia Street in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
The demolition of 401 Sophia Street in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

While difficult to witness, the demolition of buildings like 401 Sophia Street can provide for some unique opportunities. In particular such scenarios allow the historic preservationist the opportunity to examine architectural salvage, particularly structural members, that normally would be inaccessible without destructive analysis. Below are some images, with annotations, of the architectural salvage procured by the UMW Center for Historic Preservation from 401 Sophia Street.

Sribe mark
The image above shows a scribe mark left by a marking gauge to assist the carpenter in creating the 1/2 dovetail lap joint. Such gauges were a great way to ensure proper measurements without having to worry about math.
Carpenter Marks, often Roman numerals, used to ensure the proper matching of joinery.
Carpenter Marks, often Roman numerals, used to ensure the proper matching of joinery.
Hand hewn member helping to support the antebellum date of the building. Hand hewing was a process in which the wood member was shaped with a felling axe first and later a broad axe.
Hand hewn member helping to support the antebellum date of the building. Hand hewing was a process in which the wood member was shaped with a felling ax first and later a broadax.

Comments

  1. I agree that sometimes demolition can be sad for the really old, historical buildings. However, you also make a great point in that it can really help to make better opportunities. Older buildings can be nice for historical reasons, but it can prevent new businesses from growing or homes being built. I am sure that this building being demolished will do just that and can help make room for more things on this campus.

    Reply

    • Re. the above comment: “this building being demolished will…make room for more things on this campus.”
      Does the University, whose campus lies largely between Sunken Road and College Avenue, own the Sophia Street property? What are the plans for the lot?

      Reply

      • No, the University does not own the property. I believe current plans are to rebuild, residential, on the lot.

        Reply

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