Prince George's County Court House Duvall Wing Fire Restoration Project –
November 2004 – January 2006

On Wednesday morning, November 3, 2004, a fire broke out in the attic of the historic Duvall Wing of the Prince George’s County Court House. The fire destroyed virtually the entire second floor of the three-story portion of the Duvall Wing. What the fire did not destroy, smoke, water and mold quickly did. The results were that much of the interior of the three-story portion of the Duvall Wing had to be demolished down to bare surfaces of the structural walls. Prince George’s County immediately took steps to salvage the remaining portion of the Duvall Wing and began planning for its restoration.

The three grand limestone columns that framed the entrance to the Courthouse were damaged in the fire and have been removed.  New limestone are being fabricated and will be delivered and erected in February 2007.	The roof structure over the courthouse was completely destroyed and collapsed within the courthouse.

The bell tower that stood over the courthouse for years was salvaged and will be restored as a monument for the reconstruction of the Duvall Wing. The sides of the bell tower will be filled with etched plated glass depicting the history of the courthouse and will rest in the courtyard in front of the building.	Major reconstruction of structural and load bearing walls have been accomplished.

The roof over the courthouse has been rebuilt and the superstructure of a new bell tower has been set in place.

Plans have been completed for the reconstruction of the Duvall Wing that greatly enhance the work environment, meet the Americans with Disabilities Act and address public safety for all who visit the Courthouse.

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