Orlando Brown House Wheelchair Ramp

When it comes to restoring and modifying historic sites, there is a lot to take into consideration. Improvements need to be done while also keeping the architectural integrity of the building. Making the historic site wheelchair accessible can prove an even bigger challenge. Adding an accessible entrance to the outside without taking away from the site’s character can be difficult. But when done right, a place of history can be made accessible for all while maintaining its historic look. In Frankfort, Kentucky this has been done with the addition of a wheelchair ramp at the Orlando Brown House.

Liberty Lesson
The historic house is actually one of two buildings at the Liberty Hall Historic Site. Here is a bit of history on the buildings from the Liberty Hall Historic Site website:

Located in historic downtown Frankfort on the banks of the Kentucky River, Liberty Hall Historic Site was the home of one of Kentucky’s most important families. The site contains two houses: Liberty Hall (1796) built by John Brown, one of Kentucky’s first United States Senator and the Orlando Brown House (1835), designed by Gideon Shryock, and owned by Senator Brown’s second son.  Liberty Hall is a National Historic Landmark.

The historic site serves as a historic museum for people to learn about the history of the building and surrounding area. People can also reserve the grounds and building for weddings, pictures, and other events.

Give Me Liberty!
Back in 2010 and 2011, the Orlando Brown House underwent a major renovation both inside and out. Hawkins Construction of Lawrenceburg, Kentucky had the task of the construction. This renovation also included making the house wheelchair accessible. Beginning with making a ramp to enter the house. The building itself is made of brick along with an addition that has white siding. To make the ramp blend in it had to match both these characteristics.

Getting the Look
The sides of the ramp are clad in brick to exactly match the existing brickwork. Then white vents are placed on the sides below the top landing. These vents help keep air flowing in the crawl space and prevent moisture buildup. The white look also helps tie in the white siding of the addition. Finally the black handrails are muted and don’t attract attention.

Conclusion
While making a historic site accessible can prove challenging, it can be done and done well. Giving more people a chance to view and learn history. For more on the Liberty Hall Historic Site visit www.LibertyHall.org. To see more of Hawkins Construction’s work visit www.HawkinsConstructionKY.com.