Opportunity Knocks for a Hands-On Plasterwork Workshop

Only one spot is left for this weekend’s ornamental plaster repair workshop taking place at the historic Capt. George Flavel House Museum in Astoria. Participants of Clatsop Community College’s (CCC) two day workshop will learn how to create plaster mix and molding templates, as well as proper instillation of new crown molding.
Listed on the National Register, the c.1885 Flavel house is one of the best preserved examples of Queen Anne architecture in the Pacific Northwest.  Measuring approximately 11,600 square feet, this two-and-a- half-story house includes a four-story tower, six unique fireplace mantels, detailed woodwork, elaborate tiling, and ornate plaster medallions and crown moldings. Captain Flavel was one of Astoria’s most influential citizens in the late 19^th century, making his wealth from a successful maritime bar piloting and towing business.

Water damage caused during a short period of vacancy after World War II led to the loss of 12-feet of crown molding in the Library Room and portions of damaged molding in Capt. George Flavel’s bedroom chamber. This project and partnership with CCC was developed by Matt Powers, Clatsop County Historical Society’s facilities manager, who also graduated from CCC’s Preservation Program two years ago. Registration for this workshop or future workshops can be found on the Clatsop Community College webpage.
Fostering partnerships like the one between Clatsop Community College and Clatsop County Historical Society is advantageous for both parties, and crafts historically accurate restoration work available for public viewing. While the Flavel House is superlative, the specialized skills learned by students will likely go into buildings across Oregon in the years to come.
A full story about this workshop can be found on the Daily Astorian webpage.