USA’s first Catholic church blessed by Keymer

3/02/2010

America's first Catholic Church, which was demolished in 1704, has been resurrected and topped with Keymer's Traditional hand made clay tiles for an authentic 17th century appearance.

Designed by Henry Miller, research director of St Mary's city, the new chapel was built to mark the state's 375th anniversary. To maintain historical authenticity, it was constructed using only traditional methods and materials, which made Keymer's prestigious Traditional hand made clay tiles the ideal solution to complete the roof.

With over 400 years' heritage, Keymer was the ideal candidate to supply the project, which is so steeped in history. Following a visit from the architect, Keymer's highly attractive Wealden Red Traditional hand made clay tiles were specified to complete the building's wooden framed roof with an authentic and dramatic appearance.

There were no original plans to work from, with only the original 3ft thick foundations remaining, outlining a modest, cross-shaped structure, and a collection of glass, brick and plaster. Henry Miller, therefore, followed traditional European ecclesiastical architecture of the time.

Many materials were sourced locally, but the architect chose to get genuine hand made clay tiles from overseas, just as the original designers would have. Without the resources to fire the clay themselves, they'd have had to import the tiles, from a manufacturer like Keymer.

A total of 16,000 of Keymer's highly attractive Traditional hand made clay roof tiles were meticulously installed upon the structure's pitched roof. As one of the most impressive buildings in the entire city, the striking red of the tiles perfectly complements the red brick walls to create a unique visual appearance that catches visitors' attention from afar.
With the building complete and ready for the city to celebrate its anniversary, the church can welcome visitors for the first time in many years, keeping them safe and dry under Keymer's genuine hand made clay tiles.