Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Morgan-Keller Completes Schmucker Hall Renovation

Morgan-Keller recently completed a four-story, 20,000 SF, environmentally efficient historic preservation of Schmucker Hall located on the campus of the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Gettysburg, PA.  The building was converted into the state-of-the-art Voices of History Museum that will depict the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg, 1863-era medicine, religion, and African American life during the Civil War.

Schmucker Hall, built in 1832, is nationally significant for its role in the American Civil War. Its location on Seminary Ridge was the site of the first day of the battle of Gettysburg on July 3, 1863 and it served as a hospital throughout the three day battle.

The cupola atop the building provided Civil War Union generals an observation vantage for viewing the approach of the Confederate troops from the West and is today an icon for American Civil War enthusiasts and scholars.  Additionally, it served as a dormitory, administration offices, and classrooms for the oldest Lutheran Seminary in the United States. The significance of Schmucker Hall has been recognized through its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.

The project involved the rehabilitation of the exterior and interior to reflect its appearance at the time of the Civil War while allowing for increased utilization as a museum.  The cupola was restored for limited public access. The project also included installation of a state-of-the-art environmental system including geothermal wells, security system, fire suppression system, handicapped access, elevator,  staff and public restrooms, and electrical and mechanical systems.


Morgan-Keller Construction is one of Maryland’s largest and most respected commercial builders, with offices in Frederick and Columbia. Now in its 57th year of operation, M-K’s resume of recently completed projects includes retail centers, office buildings, fire stations, hotels, healthcare,  biomedical, and several senior living facilities. For additional information, visit our website at www.morgankeller.com.