Perhaps the most recognized street in Philadelphia, Elfreth’s Alley is considered the oldest city street in America.  Except for the museum, all of the homes are privately owned and highly prized historic 18th century structures.  This home is one of the oldest on the street, it was built in 1735 and originally served as an Inn.  At that period in Philadelphia’s history, its total population was about half the population of Easton today. 

Our 2008 project included only the side walls of the building which had suffered severely from water sealant, Portland Cement repointing, caulk and paint.  We carefully removed Portland Cement mortar and other materials, inverted and replaced severely damaged bricks with matching used bricks found stored in the basement.  We used a soft lime putty mortar with a large aggregate similar to the original.  We continue to monitor the building to determine if the repointing has been sufficient to arrest the deterioration in the brick.  Because of the damage from the water sealant and the historic nature of the building we felt that attempt to remove the water sealant might further jeopardize the masonry.