Barnum Museum undergoes construction from past tornado, storm damage

Construction has finally begun to restore the building after extreme weather impact on the museum.

Jack Walsh

Oct 7, 2024, 9:05 PM

Updated 46 days ago

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The Barnum Museum of Bridgeport is undergoing the largest restoration project in its 131 year history.
Repairs are finally underway following damage from a 2010 tornado, Hurricane Irene, Superstorm Sandy and a delay in construction due to COVID-19.
"There is some modern elements that went in there to make sure everything is structurally and thermally sound back in the building. That was supported through a Save America's Treasure's Grant through the National Park Services," said Kathleen Maher, executive director of Barnum Museum. "But aside from that, what we were also able to accomplish, was the entire building has been repointed."
Repointing is the process of renewing previous exterior construction, such as bricks or tiles.
Maher says the next phase of repair will consist of thermal engineering, ADA and even an upgraded elevator.