Philip Webb had visited Eglwys Cummin church on behalf the Society at the request of Mr Treherne, the agent for the property and member of the Society. In July 1900 Weir started work reinforcing the west gable, parts of which were insecure, having been raised when the roof pitch was altered. While carrying out this work he discovered moulded stones indicating that the gable had originally been curved. Webb wanted Weir to reveal these stones on the outside, adding, ‘I am not for a moment proposing to repair this church in any supposed earlier form of roof or vault, but only as the work now is’.
As well reinforcing the west gable, Weir repair the roof by relaying the slates and fixing the lead soakers to them where they abutted against the gables ensuring it was watertight.
In May 1901, after the interior plastering was completed, Mr Treherne wrote to the Secretary: ‘The society through Mr Webb, and under the supervision of Mr Weir have advised as to certain works of repair to this ancient church with great success and much economy.’
On receiving Weir’s photographs of the church in November 1901 Webb wrote: ‘Truly it looks more ‘‘ancient’’ than before you laid hands on it... the continuous solid looking stone ridge is more than worth the money it cost. The pointing too — now, looks really workmanlike.’
Image: page from Photograph Album 2 in the SPAB archive with images of the interior and exterior of Eglwys Cummin church.
