The Fall River Historical Commission meeting on October 1, 2025, focused on a significant project aimed at restoring and replacing 54 historic windows in the city. The discussion highlighted the collaboration with Horner Mill in Somerset, which has been tasked with providing options that adhere to preservation standards.
The windows in question are notably large, measuring 11 feet high by 6 feet wide, and are designed with two panels that swing out. The commission confirmed that the new windows will maintain the same size and style as the originals, ensuring consistency with the building's historical character. The project is modeled after a successful renovation of similar windows at a site in Providence, which met state preservation standards.
Horner Mill will conduct on-site measurements and has indicated a lead time of approximately 10 to 12 weeks for the window production. If approved by the Community Preservation Committee (CPC), the installation is planned for the following summer. The commission emphasized the importance of ensuring that the new windows comply with interior preservation standards.
During the meeting, a member inquired about how the company was selected for this specialized work. The project lead explained their prior experience with Horner Mill and the process of sharing photographs of the existing windows to find a suitable match from the company's catalog.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the project's direction, including a decision to match the new window color to the granite exterior of the building, further enhancing its historical integrity. The commission's commitment to preserving the city's architectural heritage remains a priority as they move forward with this restoration initiative.