MPG Restoring a Gothic Landmark: Barbelin Hall at Saint Joseph’s University

Built in 1927, Barbelin Hall is approaching its 100-year anniversary, standing as one of the most recognizable and cherished landmarks on Saint Joseph’s University campus. Named for Felix J. Barbelin, S.J., one of the University’s founders, the building’s soaring 165-foot bell tower, detailed stone façade, and Collegiate Gothic design have symbolized Saint Joseph’s commitment to academic excellence for nearly a century.

Scaffolding covers the exterior of Barbelin Hall during ongoing renovation work. Photo: Dee Alabede ’26/THE HAWK

Today, Barbelin Hall continues to serve as a vital academic hub—housing the College of Arts and Sciences, the Office of Graduate and Extended Studies, and numerous classrooms and academic programs. Preserving a building of this scale and historic importance requires a restoration team with specialized expertise in Gothic architecture and traditional stone masonry, making this project a natural fit for Masonry Preservation Group.

Barbelin Hall was designed in the Collegiate Gothic architectural style popular in the early twentieth century, characterized by pointed arches, crenellated parapets, sculptural stone details, stained glass, and soaring towers. Inspired by the historic universities of Oxford and Cambridge, the style was intended to convey permanence, intellectual rigor, and prestige—values that continue to define Saint Joseph’s University nearly a century later.

The tower of Barbelin Hall wrapped in scaffolding, circa 1926. Photo: St. Joe’s Archives

Barbelin Hall was constructed using Wissahickon schist, a locally sourced metamorphic stone found primarily in the greater Philadelphia region. Rich in mica, Wissahickon schist is known for its layered texture and subtle reflective qualities that allow portions of the stone to shimmer in sunlight. Restoring a material of this complexity requires a deep understanding of historic stone behavior, regional geology, and traditional masonry techniques—expertise that aligns directly with MPG’s experience.

As a leading authority in historic masonry and stone restoration, MPG’s approach emphasizes craftsmanship, historical accuracy, and longevity. Their team carefully evaluates original materials, matches historic stone and mortar, and applies time-tested restoration techniques to preserve the architectural integrity of each structure—while meeting modern performance and safety standards.

MPG is widely recognized for its work restoring historic masonry and Gothic-style structures throughout the Philadelphia region and the tri-state area. Their portfolio includes restoration work at many of the region’s most respected universities and colleges, including the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, Rowan University, Temple University, Drexel University, La Salle University, and Rutgers University. In addition, MPG has restored numerous landmark buildings throughout the City of Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg.

As Barbelin Hall approaches its centennial, this restoration represents more than preservation—it is an investment in legacy. Entrusting this iconic Gothic landmark to craftsmen with deep experience in historic stone and academic architecture ensures that Barbelin Hall will continue to inspire students, faculty, and visitors for generations to come. Through the expertise of MPG, Barbelin Hall’s legacy is being carefully preserved for the next century.

For more information about Masonry Preservation Group and their extensive experience in historic stone restoration, contact their team to learn how they can support your next project.