The roof of the historic Black Bottom House of Prayer collapsed in December 2019 and took its supporting walls with it, in a dramatic and sudden Act of God that almost completely destroyed one of Orlando’s oldest churches.
The building, which is located at 921 Bentley Street [GMap], is listed as a historic landmark by the City of Orlando, was built in 1925. It’s sat empty ever since the collapse. Further demo was also required to remove the historic bell tower as well, following Hurricane Ian, to prevent any further collapses that could hurt bystanders and pedestrians.
Ryan Young, of Parramore-based design firm, Interstruct Design + Build (Website), is leading the restoration project, and he took a moment to catch us up on what his team is doing to bring back the local landmark.
“The project has taken a very long time for approvals through the State for the historic grant to repair the shell of the building, and the City permitting process. We have structurally repaired the perimeter walls and are currently installing the trusses/sheathing. We will be starting roofing in the next few weeks, followed by a historic door, and window install by Austin Historic.“
– RYAN YOUNG, INTERSTRUCT DESIGN + BUILD
Young also chipped in that the belltower will also be returning, “In all of its glory.”
Funds for the renovation/restoration work were provided in part from the Florida African American Cultural and Historical Grant program, which awarded the project $500,00 back in 2022.
Young provided the following renderings that showcase the work his team is carrying out on the historic Parramore church.
Wonderful to see this happening!