heneghan wrecking rescues ornament from hospital building they are demolishing

a month ago i posted about the uncertain fate of the ornamental terra cotta adorning the facade of presbyterian hospital's daniel a. jones building, completed in 1888. as the small collection of wrecking machines slowly erased the building's lengthy existence, i was growing concerned that the ornament would eventually contribute to the growing piles of rubble gathering in and around the partially demolished facade at ground level.

when i finally had some free time to document the progress of the hospital's demolition, again as an outsider, since rush hospital did not want any architectural salvage companies to get involved in rescuing the ornament, the facade had been pulled down and the ornament was nowhere to be found. just as i was ruminating on the senseless loss of more historically important exterior artifacts, i ran across the demolition company's project foreman, who i've worked with in the past on multiple projects. my first question was quickly answered with a grin and a hand gesture toward several pallets tucked away near his trailer.

i was elated, he let me come onsite and document the ornament i had only seen previously from afar and "in situ." now, as i was standing above it, i took the opportunity to carefully document the red terra cotta panels (many of which were sadly damaged), limestone and ironwork in much greater detail. the ornament was very impressive and had developed a nice surface patina from prolonged exposure to the elements.

from what i was told, rush hospital contracted heneghan wrecking with wrecking the building, as well as with saving several ornamental components, including an entire entrance way surround and a time capsule (the latter were removed by my good friend david felling of felling contracting). once the ornament is entirely removed (a continued work in progress), the hospital intends to have a time capsule opening ceremony, followed by an architectural artifact auction to raise money for new construction. i highly doubt they will capture a sizable dollar amount that would make much of a difference, but you never know. i certainly will be present to document the opening of the capsule and buy ornament for the bldg. 51 museum.