14

Warehouse interior photo showing the various materials used in its construction.
1900
Newman Wine Vaults, St. John's, NL
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15

The outer part of the structure was actually built to enclose, expand and protect the vaults. It was constructed between 1905 and 1907 of rubble, brick and hydro-stone blocks, and faces Water Street. It provided warehouse space, and was in the worst state of disrepair prior to the site stabilization and restoration work.

16

Underside of the Vaults roof during repairs.
1997
Newman Wine Vaults, St. John's, NL

17

The roof of the outer warehouse was in danger of collapse. It was no longer water tight and offered little protection to the inner vaults. Before the Newfoundland Historic Trust arrived, the front of the roof had already been collapsing and rather than repair it, and so had been removed. This left the roof trusses exposed to the elements. A strong wind would actually lift the roof from the building.

18

Stabilizing beam footings.
1997
Newman Wine Vaults, St. John's, NL

19

This led to an unfortunate chain reaction. As the roof lifted, it pulled the building's two main support beams with it. The beams came free of their footing, causing further damage to the vaults underneath.

20

Workers in the entrance area of the Vaults during restoration work.
1997
Newman Wine Vaults, St. John's, NL

21

With the assistance of The Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador, and grants from youth employment programs, including Young Canada Works in Heritage Organizations, the Newfoundland Historic Trust hired a number of construction workers and students to begin restoration.

22

Roof restoration.
1997
Newman Wine Vaults, St. John's, NL

23

The main support beams were jacked into place and new footings were installed. The roof trusses were attached to the front wall. New eaves, molding and decking were added. Finally, a new rubberoid roof membrane was installed.

24

Roof restoration work.
1997
Newman Wine Vaults, St. John's, NL

25

The main door to the Newman Wine Vaults that opens onto Water Street, 2005.
1910
Newman Wine Vaults, St. John's, NL

26

Acetylene torches were used to free the closed hinges of the main front doors. The doors were badly damaged but were restored, opening now with ease.

27

One of the interior doors prior to restoration.
1800
Newman Wine Vaults, St. John's, NL