Renovation Update

The first phase of our efforts to restore the historic Head House and Shambles on 2nd and Pine Streets is complete. Made possible by a generous $1.625 mil­lion grant from the City of Philadelphia, secured by Councilman Mark Squilla, the work has focused both on preservation of this historic landmark and activation of the space for expanded community uses.

Based on plans prepared by John Milner Architects, Inc., a nationally respected historic preservation firm, funded by the City’s Department of Public Property, we competitively selected W.S. Cumby Construction, a family-owned business with deep expertise in restoring and renovating historic landmarks. Cumby’s renovation work focused on the most critical preservation priorities: repairing the Head House roof, restoring, repainting, and lighting the cupola wood­work, repointing brickwork, repainting shutters, replacing windows, interior office space renovations, installation of a ground floor bathroom for special events, installation of new clockfaces, a functioning clock, and a restored historic bell that rings hourly and on the half-hour.

Generous contributions from neighbors are also enabling us to illuminate the Head House façade and update historic information panels at both ends of the block.

For the next phase of enhancements, the Conservancy will be seeking to raise additional funds to improve walking surfaces to make the Sunday markets and other events more accessible, and to upgrade and maintain landscaping and planters. Contributions from $250 to $2,500 to $25,000 will help us get there!