This Old House (1979)

Episode Overview

The episode begins at Congregation Mickve Israel, where Rabbi Belzer guides us through the historic 1876 structure, showcasing the congregation's Torah, the oldest in America, which was brought by the original temple members in 1733. Meanwhile, city preservation officer Beth Reiter consults with Mills Fleming about the exterior paint selection and its application on the stucco facade. Inside, paper hanger Peter Bridgman is busy working on one of the four ceilings he's wallpapering, having first ensured the cracked plaster was stabilized by fellow paper hanger Don Taylor using a combination of paper-barrier paint and fiberglass fabric. Finish carpenter Steve Scherz reveals intricate new moldings, including a cornice composed of seven components that mimic the building's original plaster details. We then visit blacksmith Johnny Smith at his forge, crafting a new wrought iron railing for the Flemings' home.