DA's Historic Chapel Library Restoration this Summer

Our beautiful and iconic historic Chapel Library is getting some special attention. With a grant of $157,273 from the History Colorado State Historical Fund, we are moving forward with repair and rehabilitation this summer of the stained glass windows, copper cupola, and front entrance door - all of which are original. 

The architects, contractors, and DA staff met in April to coordinate the plan for work that is in full swing now that school is out for summer. Heritage Window Restoration removed several Chapel Library windows in May and is working in collaboration with Watkins Stained Glassto rehabilitate all 16 of the stained glass windows. As windows are removed for repair work, temporary glazing inserts are installed, protecting against the elements while still letting in light. 

On June 5, Raleigh Roofing and Restoration began setting up scaffolding that surrounds all four sides of the Chapel Library cupola for workers to repair seams and copper louvers to address leakage of moisture into the tower. The leaning finial at the top of the cupola will also be straightened and the tin that's topping it will be replaced with copper. The bulk of the construction and repair work for the Chapel Library will be completed this summer. 

Built in 1926, the Chapel is historically designated by the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission. As we worked toward this grant funding, Teacher-Librarian Jolene Gutierrez encouraged students to write letters of support for the project. Many of the students' letters said they just wanted to be comfortable within their too-cold-in-the-winter, too-hot-in-the-summer Chapel Library. The preservation work being done will help DA students and their families to be more comfortable within this historic space. Ms. Gutierrez and other teachers will also continue to grow our teaching opportunities around the history of our campus, offering opportunities to practice descriptive and creative writing, to explore historic buildings through photography, and to learn more about local history. Check out this website about the history of the DA campus.