Photo: Old North Church & Historic Site
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Four historic wood-carved angels are back on their perch at the Old North Church after a months-long restoration project.
The angels, which date back to the 1620s, were first brought to the church in 1746 after they were seized from a French cargo ship by British privateer Captain Thomas Gruchy—a North End resident who worshipped at the Old North Church. Gruchy donated the four angels to the church where they've remained for centuries.
"It's crazy to think that when they were installed in 1746 they were already a historic artifact at that point," Nikki Stewart, the Executive Director of Old North Illuminated, told WBZ's Kyle Bray. "We think they were probably headed for a church or a convent but they ended up here and they've hung in the gallery ever since."
However, after decades without any work, the Old North Church partnered with Manzi Appraisers & Restoration to give the angels a facelift. Stewart said the restoration work included cleaning, fixing cracks from old work, and touching up paint.
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"Two of them were actually missing their trumpets," Stewart said. "Manzi was able to fabricate new trumpets that look a little aged and match the visuals of the angels."
To celebrate the return of the angels, the Old North Church is hosting a celebration Tuesday, Dec. 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stewart said anyone with the word angel in their name or anyone who comes dressed in an angel costume will be able to get in for free. Stewart added that she's excited they were able to get the angels back in time for the holidays.
"A lot of folks don't know that Old North is still an active church," Stewart said. "It was important to us to bring them back in time for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services as well."
WBZ's Kyle Bray (@KyleBrayWBZ) reports.
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