BOSTON -- Conservators have unveiled eight previously hidden angels at Boston's Old North Church, which is not only notable for its ties to Paul Revere but also holds rich historical significance dating back to the early 18th century. These celestial figures, painted with childlike faces and angelic wings, were obscured under layers of white paint for over a century.
Straddling the scaffolding higher up the church, murals conservator Gianfranco Pocobene has been leading this restoration project for the past four months. Originally painted around 1730, the angels were covered during renovations made to the church’s interior back in 1912, part of what was perceived as modernization at the time.
“When we first looked at the project six months ago, we had no idea what was here,” Pocobene stated, reflecting on the initial discovery. “It's really been quite a revelational to find these really interesting and historic works of art on the walls of the church... to be part of a project where we are returning something from colonial America is really extraordinary.”
Through diligent work, conservators managed to carefully strip away seven layers of paint. Employing a solvent gel to soften the older layers, they manually scraped off the coverings using plastic tools, taking special care not to damage the delicate figures beneath. This painstaking method creates a delicate balance between preserving the original work and restoring its historical beauty.
Corrine Long, another conservator on the project, articulated the emotional fulfillment tied to returning the angels back to their original glory. “Whenever I go to buildings with history, I'm amazed to be surrounded by the original decorations,” she said. “When it’s been repainted white, it takes away from some of the majesty and some of the history.”
The uncovered angels are but part of the estimated 20 originally painted; eight were visible by the start of this month. Each angel boasts individual character, thanks to the unique artistry of John Gibbs, the congregation’s member and artist responsible for their creation. Pocobene remarked, “They all have their own character — they're not copies. The artist painted them individually, which gives them a wonderful pattern across the arches of the church.”
The Old North Church, Boston's oldest standing church, has long served not only as a place of worship but also as a witness to pivotal moments in American history. It is famously known for the lanterns displayed from its steeple during Paul Revere's midnight ride to alert the American militia of the British invasion. The church, constructed to serve the burgeoning colonial Anglican community, once had its interior vibrant with colors and rich artistry.
Emily Spence, the associate director of education at Old North Illuminated, noted the importance of restoring these original colors to accurately reflect the historical state of the church. “For much of the church’s history, people coming here would have seen those angels, would have seen the colorful interior,” she explained. “The color scheme was integral to the identity of the members, setting it apart from the predominantly Calvinist Puritans.”
Public interest in the church has been reignited along with these discoveries. Recently, visitors such as Sean Dixon and Sarah Jardine from California observed the restoration efforts. “I was kind of shocked when I first saw it. It looks really cool, and I’m really excited to see the full picture once the scaffolding come down,” Dixon remarked enthusiastically.
The restoration hinges on the upcoming 250th anniversary of Revere’s iconic ride, set for April 2025. Church officials hope all twenty angels will be uncovered and restored, providing visitors with a glimpse of the artistry and culture from colonial times when the church served as both a sanctuary and social hub.
Through this careful renovation, conservators not only resurrect pieces of history but also bridge the past and present, enabling future generations to appreciate the stories held within the walls of Boston's Old North Church.
