The Priest Hole Demolition

[@tiny2074]

Keep the spirit of the secret room by putting a secret room behind one of the bookcases from the library. Maybe put a small reading room behind it. Whatever you do we all know you are doing an awesome job preserving the convent and history. Documenting the freaky writing would be enough for me. Good luck to you on this project, though. Love the library idea. Wish I could help.

[@greenacresbloom]

Put framed photos of the wallpaper and other artifacts within the new secret room.

[@IslandSanibel]

I love this idea! It would be so neat to access the secret room from the library! The other wall writing could be shown there as well!

[@erdy15]

Thinking the same!! 👍

[@adamthunder9869]

Best idea so far

[@barbaraanderson112]

This is am awesome idea. As a book reader, a cozy and historical nook like this would be awesome.

[@ftwtexasstephens9629]

My uncle was one of the men dropped behind enemy lines during WWII. He and several men were hid by the French and ultimately saved their lives. He was so grateful to all the French people who hid them, fed them, and helped them back to safety. imagine the stories that secret room could tell.

[@margaretforshaw1617]

The story in the secret room I would imagine is quite significant and historically important. I would hate to see it not being preserved in some way . These rooms that were able to hide and protect people are so important in remembering the past events that happened in the Convents history .

[@terris7842]

Without evidence to confirm this was a priest hole, or evidence somewhere to indicate that priests took refuge in the convent during times of persecution, it really is only conjecture that that is what the room was used for in the past. I agree it’s a shame me to lose it, and it could well be exactly what the room was, but without provenance it would be difficult to assert historical significance for any official record.

[@ScotchFrog45]

As meticulous as the Pethericks are, I'm sure they will document and photograph everything related in case some information should arise in the future. The library will be the perfect place to house such information.

[@Sunfl75]

This room has more likely been used to conceal sacred artefacts, blessed Bibles and hymn books, relics and religious art during WW2.

[@bevbond6152]

Please preserve the secret room intact, taking expert advice from conservationists, museums and so forth. It’s too important, it stands for the preservation of the human spirit, even more than the rest of the convent. You are doing a magnificent job so far!

[@gillyflowers]

Preserve that secret room as much as possible. It’s such an interesting and significant historical feature of the convent. Do whatever you can to retain the integrity of that space 😮!!

[@michellemonksfield2171]

Yes I agree - it is an important part of history.

[@PoitahhClarke]

Perhaps reinstate it in the attic? There were some “interesting rooms” up there. Not sure if this is possible but it is a place that once reinstated is less likely to be compromised in the future with other development plans.

[@JenHopper]

​@@PoitahhClarkeI agree, that's a nice option, especially since it needs to stay out of the sun to preserve the papers.

[@chrisdavis2040]

Being an expert watcher of Reno's hehe I would shovel into wheelbarrow, make ramp up to shute then tip down it. So much time wasted doing 1 shovel load, walking to the window etc etc. Try it my way next time. Free advice

[@michellemacinnis9921]

I agree... this 'Priest Hole' room (as well as the wall with the writing on it) are historically interesting, possibly historically significant. People may want to study it in the future. You may find out stories some day of who they hid or who wrote those messages on the wall. At the very least, visitors will want to see it- the real thing, not just a photo or something in a display case. Part of buying a building like this is enhancing what is there, not destroying it. Otherwise you could have built a new building from scratch.I don't feel like documenting stuff like this is enough, you have to preserve it as best as possible. You'd hate to find out years later that you shouldn't have done what you did.

[@foretb1162]

In the Secret Room, the Sacred Heart paper is actually a prayer. Here is what it states: Top writing: Domine salvé nos perimus - God keep them from being killed. (Domine = God; salvé - salvation; nos =they; perimus from the verb 'to kill') Bottom writing: Parci Domine (3 fois) = Spare us, O God (3 times) Next line: Divin Coeur de Jésus = Divine Heart of Jesus (3 times) To put it all together: God, keep them from being killed. (Probably written by the nuns or the priest.) Spare us, O God x 3; Spare us, O Divine Heart of Jesus (x3). On the medallion: Top line - "Vive + Jésus" means "Glory to the Cross of Jesus" Next line - "Arrête, le Coeur de Jésus est là" = Stop, the heart of Jesus is here. Next line of large text - "Il n'est qu'amour et miséricorde" = He is only love and mercy Last line of text - "Garde d'honneur du Sacré-Coeur" = Honor Guard of the Sacred Heart Under the crown of thorns: "déposé" = the Heart of Christ rests in the hands of those who worship him in truth, reverence and love St Francis de Sales et St Jeanne de Chantal created the Order of the Visitation - Sacred Heart of Jesus - in 1688 following a vision and visitation of the Virgin Mary to the both on July 2 1688 stating that the Heart of Jesus was a treasure to be revered and prayed to for protection and deliverance. The Clock of Honor Guard of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was established by the RC church through a nun by the name of Marie du Sacré-Cœur Bernaud @ the Bourg-en-Bresse Abbey of the Visitation (France) on Friday the 13th of March 13 mars 1863. From just this alone, it proves the Secret Room was a 'hiding place' during the invasions of France, possibly both the French Revolution (1789 - 1799 approx) and WW 1 & 2.

[@louisasellek6125]

Wowsa, that’s impressive

[@petat13]

@thepethericks just tagging to make sure this wonderful information is seen ❤

[@russellhodgson1149]

Yes, very knowledgeable indeed. Only one thing, nos is latin for us, not them.

[@crimsonS94]

It's horrible that it's being destroyed, it's such a significant piece of history. It makes me so sad.

[@nickfosterxx]

Wish I could upvote this a hundred times. Thank you.

[@neilthehermit4655]

For the secret room. I would suggest as you said, scan and photograph the papers etc. Carefully dismantle the panels and perhaps store in a dry place away from direct sunlight/heat. Once renovations are further along, you could mount all these behind glass and maybe add them to the library or elsewhere as a distinct wall/exhibition with a plaque or two documenting them so visitors can learn a little of the history of this magnificent place.

[@cbrashsorensen]

I had not read your thoughts and you will see I had a very similar idea. I think this would be a wonderful "compromise".

[@LaurieLeeAnnie]

Exactly what I was going to suggest. Frame the panels behind UV protect glass and display in the upper gallery of the library along with photos of the original room! It would be beautiful!

[@mingletink]

I like this idea very much. The room has such limited access as it is, so dismantling it and turning it into a display is an excellent idea.

[@Helene2367]

Great idea!

[@gardenlady1293]

As a historian/genealogist history buff I beg you to save and rebuild the priest hole as intact as possible. We loose so much of our history and this would be so easy to save. Happy New Year!

[@catherinemoon3003]

Billy, after you guys took that organ apart and rebuilt it, you can surely take the secret room apart and rebuild it. Seems worth the trouble. You never know when more information about the use of that room might make it even more valuable historically. Good luck and good wishes.

[@TeresaWillis-p4b]

I believe that it would be worth saving for all the history the convent has seen. Billy you and the guys are doing a beautiful job of restoring the convent.

[@lieuwina]

I personally do not think the priest hole should be dismantled and moved at all it should stay where it is. Billy could incorporate the priest hole with the library as he said it was an end wall. This is the very spot where priests hid etc etc

[@dennisg8164]

I think the best bet would be to consult an art conservator. I bet they would provide some good advice

[@aldavis5328]

The hidden room walls would be awesome in the library under glass.

[@crystalshipp1737]

Please keep the secret room as is!! It has such history & it would be a shame to see it demo’d

[@jangriffiths8013]

Regarding the secret room, I don't think you should try to dismantle it; very difficult. I would suggest trying to work around it -- if at all possible -- and preserve the room, to integrate it into the library as an historical piece. It could add a lot!

[@chrisfrear2155]

Could you consult an archivist from a museum on the best way to document and hopefully preserve as much of the secret room as possible?

[@catherinefromchristchurchn6508]

Maybe your local or regional council can direct you to an appropriate contact for advice and help.

[@jodirauth8847]

I think that is a great suggestion

[@brittawrolson5936]

A great idea!

[@reladie]

I wouldn’t bother, has no significance anymore.

[@malina1239]

@@reladieas an archivist I strongly disagree especially the wallpapers are interesting. The Norwegian national museum where I used to work , we had lots of wallpaper samples in our archives. They were very good taken care of . We had to wear gloves to touch them . They had to stay out of sunlight and at a set temperature , just as the pictures and phonies and fabrics of every kind. They were also one of more popular items that professionals designers and theater and movie decorators came to view and take inspiration from. We had a conservation project going, where the state gave monetary support to people who own historically listed building for renovation Several of the wallpaper samples were reproduced to use in those historical houses . It might seem insignificant , but they are important both to art history , design history, paper and pigment and paint techniques are important and important to save! I’d try to take the panels out carefully and frame the samples in UV protective glass and hang them in the hallway or a place like that where it’s not much sunlight. They’ll look so beautiful in Passepartouts and nice golden frames 😊

[@DuncanBreckels]

My advice on dismantling the top floor- PLEASE DON'T! If the beam has to be replaced, check how it is connected to the floor joists. If they just rest on top (as seems to be the case in the kitchen) then the beam can be renewed from below. Build a scaffold-plank-and-acrow support on each side of the beam. Support the floors below, all the way to the foundations to avoid overloading other parts of the building. Drop the beam out, insert and support the new one and (as you will need to break into the walls) when the mortar has set all the props can come out. My preferred options for fixing the beam in order of priority: 1: (best) hidden internal metal plate. Needs a professional, but retains maximum historic fabric and might be the cheapest. 2: prop either side-renew beam from below-remove props, as described above. Still retains much of the old building. 3: support from above with hangers. Not too expensive, but will only ever be a support rather than a repair. 4:(worst) the full demolish and rebuild you have proposed. Hugely destructive, time consuming and expensive and with the potential to go massively wrong. One possible source of information is the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, based in London. Lots of free advice on their website, and they have lots of contacts with experts and craftsmen.

[@rhondayoakum3622]

Yes what you said! I was thinking🤔 the exact same thing😉 I think it's wonderful that people can offer advice like this. I agree doing whatever they can to preserve the history should be done.

[@caroletaylor9960]

Yannis is a demolitionist's dream worker. Total determination to get the job done. Billy, you have one grand team. Personally, I would photograph the hidden room, disassemble - carefully - and rebuild in a more appropriate location. It is a room that EVERYONE will want to see and experience. A true treasure. You have a historian's heart. The convert is lucky you bought it, not a developer. Thanks, I enjoy each video!

[@karmicpopcorn6440]

I really like this idea

[@nicolaablett7790]

Grand suggestion

[@marlenebrown-waterson4422]

Totally agree and so passionate

[@kellymiklic5312]

The shelving in front of it seems very practical. I wonder if it could be relocated to a pantry or somewhere?

[@lindak3030]

You should call a conservationist to ask how to preserve the wallpaper. Maybe Stephanie could get you in touch with the people doing her chapel and they could consult with you. It's likely possible to preserve the whole room - You should wait to do anything till you can talk to someone who can tell you the best way to do it. You don't have to hurry.

[@jenniferthomson2376]

The last person you should contact is Stephanie. She had spent 15 years wasting money on furniture and prissing about with wallpaper and now discovers she has serious structural problems.

[@idreamofparis7233]

PLEASE preserve the secret room.

[@sandiramondo713]

Billy, the old glass windows with frames would make great cabinet doors. Reuse,reclaim, rescue these old items. GREAT JOB!

[@jennetteclements6555]

It’s nice to see your dad protecting his head. Well done. Cheers from NEW ZEALAND

[@Treeskneez]

Please please please keep the priest hole 😢 it's one of the things that makes the building unique and special 😊

[@mavep2855]

Preserve as much of the history as possible. As one of your viewers suggested, contact a museum and get their advice. A solid days work gentlemen!🙏❤️

[@nicolaablett7790]

Good suggestion

[@razvansimionescu7974]

Bring in two other beams, stick them side to side with the old beam, take out the old beam and replace it, then take out the first two beams. All this without destroying the upstairs rooms at all, maybe some work will be done on the outside.

[@ivang97997]

Yes, you can replace the beam without removing 3rd floor; in the US, they have professional companies that jet up the floor a couple of inches and install temporary I beams to support the upper floor, then install permanent new wood or steel trusses.

[@65ramblerman]

💯

[@M-E-r6m]

I agree with that idea but he probably won't even notice the comment since a lot of KZbinrs only pay attention to member only comments and very little to non member comments hell just destroy another piece of history of the convent

[@Joe-ew5rt]

I agree, but who's going to pay for these specialists?

[@andrea.dalessandro]

Personally, I would try at all costs to save the current wood beam, even if it is sagging. I would try to incorporate one or more pillars or columns into the structure of the gallery, in order to support it. In addition to preserving a historic component, it will also cost less, as it avoids the demolition of the upper floor.

[@MissGimpsAlot]

A valid option 👍

[@karenvaranauskas6122]

ABSOLUTELY!!! What looks like a terrible sag from right next to it will look very different from the main floor. And it tells a story!! Better an non-symetrical beam that the loss of the priest hole.

[@65ramblerman]

Yes!!! I can almost see a center post with a spiral staircase that swoops over to the cat walk. Possibly add two/four more sitter beams to carry the load. I wonder if there is away to inject an epoxy into that beam to stabilize it as well.

[@rolhoreis6187]

i agree with Andrea that columns [located at the edge of the upper gallery] would be infinitely easier and support the beam on either side of the crack . it is not necessary they be located at the crack since loading will be greatly reduced . again , working around difficult existing conditions can become interesting elements realized in the design

[@charleswoodrow]

A good idea for the secret room is probably to let it sit as it is for now, because it is at the end of the library and above. Because it is at the far end of the library, the beam that you want to replace is not really affected by the secret room. Furthermore, if you take all the rooms out on the floor above the ones in this video, it will probably be enough as the secret room is only a small amount compared to the rest.

[@randikent4747]

In regard to the preservation question about the text on the wall, if you had not bought the convent, it would have completely disintegrated and nobody would ever have seen or known about it. I'm no expert in plaster removal, but removing it intact seems impossible. Document it photographically, including a copy that is full size and find a place for it in the library. Make it a project for some scholar to research! You are doing an amazing and conscientious job!

[@charwells3243]

I'm sure it can be done, remember that Banksy painting that was removed off a plastered wall...

[@kypaintster]

I'd hate to lose the secret room. Delicate demo is my recommendation and then reassemble aft4er the beam is replaced/reinforced. I'd cut that piece that piece of plaster carefully as thick as possible to preserve it. Then put it in a class case to hang on a wall. Definitely document all if not able to save. Welcome back Simon.

[@Anita6687]

Hi billy maybe you could contact the national trust in the uk and they could be of assistance regarding the plaster and the preserving of the materials in the priest hole. I have seen on a program in the past a building with an historically significant mural/painting and it was stabilised with a frame and part of the wall was completely removed then rebuilt with fresh bricks etc. I think something could definitely be done just depends if it’s in a convenient time frame for your work you have in progress. It’s great to see Simon back joining the team.

[@GwendolynTideman]

Another incredible day of cracking on. Way to work boys.👏👏👏👏👏👏👏😊

[@eric8424]

Imagine what would have been lost if Anne Franks secret room was demolished for the sake of modernity? It’s entirely possible, even likely, that this priest hole has saved a Priests life, perhaps many. Or that Priests were found in there, and killed. As other posters said, this is probably the most significant room in the convent. And extremely rare. This room must be preserved.

[@erink4685]

Simon is seriously the best teacher!!

[@MissRolltheDice]

Billy, thank you very much for the outstanding quality of your video's, the care & attention to detail & the hours you must spend editing, reviewing, & adding music, etc. I really did not appreciate what great videos you have been producing & I took it all for granted. I saw another chateau reno vlogger (has been putting out his videos for over 3yrs) who I could no longer watch (jerky unstable quick moments, bad sound, zero editing & didnt listen to the multitude of viewer complaints). It is a pleasure watching your vlogs. You take pride in both your renovations and the videos documenting them. (Side note - you deserve major compliments on the back breaking tile job in the kitchen. So many steps in your process & you didnt cut corners...pun intended). Cheers & enjoy a few beers with the boys. Your Dad is a superstar!

[@MissRolltheDice]

I forgot to mention what a wonderful job Alex was doing as cameraman (and editing?).

[@GrandmaLM]

This is all thanks to Alex

[@tammycrowell5442]

Yanis, shall now be called "TAZ" its a complete 😊 that young man goes non stop!!! And he's always right there to help!!!

[@sherrylelee8274]

Dear friends that watch the Pethericks and all the advice you give Billy…rest assured that Billy has had from the very beginning conservation, recycling and brilliantly aware of the significance of his restoration. Trust him to make the right decisions please. Happy new year to all that watch this amazing programme 🎉😊 New Zealand 🇳🇿

[@stuartbarber7784]

Incorporate the priest hide room somewhere, like make the outside look like a normal wall panel or bookshelf, but have the entrance so people can find the secret space, maybe even sit in there like a nook to read in ?!

[@davidbrosch480]

Anybody who can decontruct an organ in England and reconstruct it in France can handle the hidden room. You've got a great team working with you.

[@drewoddwood9752]

Make one of the millions of rooms a kind of museum and add all the neat findings to it. Just have to be incredibly delicate dismantling the room and the wall with the writing.

[@JudyCarter-kl7be]

I'd suggest pulling the old papers off carefully and then framing them in old frames to be hung around the Convent. Crack on guys!! You're the most fascinating channel I watch!!

[@charwells3243]

Or damp them to soften the glue and peel them off.

[@fawnn]

That's my suggestion as well. Frame the wallpaper and display it throughout the library

[@jaydee5022]

You could see if the Musée du papier peint at Rixheim in Alsace could advise you, but a paper conservator would know about the prints pasted on the wall as well.

[@puffyjo]

great idea

[@maizie9454]

this.

[@youknowme8578]

Billy and Gwendolyn, I hope and pray that someday the convent will be a hotel. If and when that happens, I will be one of the first to fly across the pond to see it. You are doing a wonderful job to restore it, and God willing....I want to see your brother play the organ one day.

[@acsberean4092]

It's great to see Simon back with the team and being the right kind of mentor for Janis.

[@robbiemoriarty7499]

I love how careful you are about saving the history. Save wallpaper and frame. Photograph and document.

[@dianayavetz6286]

Trust your gut, Billy. You always seem to make a good decision. You have a vision of what the convent should be so stay true to that. We will all be watching and supporting you.

[@elaine8538]

Please, preserve, preserve, preserve the history of your beautiful convent. Thank you. ✨💕🙏💕✨

[@ruthdice2154]

Billy, I would try and preserve the secret room, even it you take apart very carefully and put it back again, after the beam repair.. that must have some historical significance as it had to have been a priest or nun hides hole at least during the revolution. The religious people were persecuted during that time period. At one point they had to take an inventory of all their goods, and give to the government, which at some point confiscated it all..the religious were evicted from their buildings during this time also, in some cases the building were turned into jails. Priest were not allowed to say mass during this time, nor the sister able to carry on their work. Many were left with nothing, and returned home to their families or lived in hovels, as they took vows of poverty. That hidey hole if only it walls could talk about what happened in there over the centuries. Maybe later it was used by nuns after they came back who wanted a private place for prayer. I would bring in a historical archivist before u decide to take apart the room. Is there any way to date the wood timbers u are taking from the walls, to give u an idea of they were built?

[@heddyrain6118]

You should keep the secret room. There is so much history here that a large library is not going to be able to help restore. I admire your work on the building but saving the importance parts of the history of the building are really worth it as well. That's why I started watching the show.

[@karenm3822]

Billy I think you should make up a glass cabinet & when you've carefully removed the wallpapered walls of the priesthole put the pieces in the cabinet with a plaque explaining what they are. It'd look good in the library.

[@sarahwidman1744]

I’m loving the moments when the sounds of work are left in, it’s a nice contrast to moments with music

[@Anthony-ot8vl]

Billy, you should have 1 MILLION subscribers. The video that hooked me was the transformation of the convent time lapse. Maybe when the kitchen is done, have a similar one? My wife and I watch every day.

[@Xazoutje]

You really need to preserve as much as possible from that secret room, that probable didn't and will perhaps never tell all it secrets. The patch seems from a religious organisation "Garde d’Honneur du Sacré-Coeur (de Jesus)" they still exist and have a French website. So perhaps they have archives and can tell you more about the patch and from when to when that particular one was used. The wallpaper is so beautiful I hope you can digitalize it and even reproduce, how cool would it be if you could use the designs as feature pieces/walls in the rooms when renovated.

[@ceebee8897]

Take samples from the secret room, frame them and use on the wall in the library or in a display cabinet along with photos of the room.

[@Mudjie50]

it is amazing to watch soil dug 250 years ago, being returned to the earth.. With good rains it will again be part of mother earth. Happy to see Simons return and always glad to see Dad, Yanis and of course the leader, Billie! Good idea scanning the Priest Hole for a rebuild somewhere maybe in one of the rooms with a door in the attic.

[@Little.Springfield]

If you cannot keep it incorporated with the library, could you have the priest room removed by the right specialists to preserve it and have it displayed either at a museum or at the convent in a reserved place for historical and interesting items found as well as a complete story of the life and saving of the convent and history of the area included. We go to libraries for knowledge and stories and what a great one you have to show and tell! You could have your own little 'Museum Room" perhaps off the library? love watching your channel and it is usually one of the first things I open each day to watch. (Australia)

[@lauriesmith21]

Please ask your father to wear a mask!!! I don’t fail to watch your videos every day. Your hard work and that of your team inspires me and your Dad is amazing!

[@suew2146]

I hope you can reassemble the secret room elsewhere in the convent, maybe in some top floor rooms set aside as a museum: a 1970s cell, an 1800s cell, maybe a wall stripped to the straw and beams, and a secret room plus all the finds around the convent!

[@GrandmaLM]

Watching you guys work over head makes my arms, shoulders, neck and back hurt.😩

[@tammypage4571]

Again, I must say, you have an amazing team! And your Dad is amazing!

[@marysell6184]

The main thing I would like to see preserved is the wallpaper, etc in the secret room as well as the cabinet. The other room with the writing on the wall I would suggest you document the best you can. Congratulations on continuing to make excellent progress!

[@suelongview9925]

Everyone is working so hard and I think Alex is doing a great job making demolishing walls look interesting! Great music too, thanks Alex 😃

[@ginaroberts2964]

I think the priest hole or secret room should be carefully dismantled and reassembled either in the library for people to experience, or behind glass to view. It's a real treasure. I know whatever you do, Billy it will be in the best possible manner for the whole restoration.

[@jeepweber]

I miss hearing all the construction sounds.

[@lorencain8926]

Before you remove the secret room, have you checked with the convent order in Canada for any possible records regarding it? Have you checked with local historians and universities about it? Have any historians been there to look at it? Same for the strange writing. Rather than ask for opinions on internet on what to do, check with historians at universities on its value as an historical record, and how to possibly move it while still preserving it. So you do need to replace the beam to keep the structure sound, but get expert historians to help you make informed decisions before destruction. If you have to wait a couple of weeks what's the big deal, the building has been the a couple of hundred years.

[@paulaj7682]

A display in the library of framed wallpapers, photos of the restoration and ephemera would be interesting as well as historically significant to the convent.

[@vonBlankenburgLP]

As I already posted, you could probably temporarily transfer the load of the walls above into the floors below using some metal building supports. That way, you could remove the broken beam without having to tear down the whole upper floor. Screw sturdy battens to the wooden supports of the upper walls from both sides. Attach brackets from the outside to anchor long props to them, which you lower through the floor to the storey below. This allows you to remove the broken beam downwards, replace it and then place the wall back on the new beam. These old wooden structures are very flexible and can also be pushed up a little with the props so that you have room to work. The channel "Der Fachwerker" used this method to replace several broken beams in his half-timbered house.

[@jimdoyel5044]

There are two things that came to mind when you discussed possibly preserving the secret room. 1) Take exact measurements of the room and recesses in the walls (if any) as well. Take photographs of the inside and outside of the room, and reconstruct everything on the computer. On the computer one could write code for a virtual tour of the room. Opening the panel, walking in; showing everything that's in the room now, before you possibly deconstruct it. 2) Just take photographs of everything, preserving the wallpaper, and any paper ephemera (like the sacred heart of Jesus, etc.) and put it in a small display case somewhere appropriate in the convent. That's my two cents.

[@georgiaobree]

Yes, take out the priest hole and reinstall when the works are done. Great idea Billyxxg

[@gemdcreations]

Wondering if the Secret Priest Hole can be left where it is and incorporated into the library. It is such a significant historical find that would be a wonderful addition to the library. If not, maybe carefully taking it down and preserving the panelling behind some glass and placed on display (maybe in the reception area) to denote the significance of the convent and the secrets it holds. With regards to the writing on the plaster, can you first scan it, photograph it and try to remove it to preserve as much as possible. Maybe place some clear contact over it first before trying to remove it so that it keeps it together. You are going to lose a lot of it, but by putting some clear contact over it first, you might end up keeping some of it. Good luck.

[@kayemallory117]

Unfortunately, the priest hole is on the 3rd floor sitting over the sagging beam that they need to deal with.

[@gemdcreations]

@@kayemallory117 There are ways of saving the beam, but I am sure Billy will make the right decision. Mine was just a suggestion to consider.

[@carladejonge4951]

Simon is such a natural in front of the camera! Very knowledgeable chap!

[@thrivewithmindfulness2953]

I was watching Escape to the Chateau and saw the same thing. They used photographs to document the old wallpaper, and then they used them to create cool things like tiles and new wallpaper. It looked amazing.

[@silviarodriguez7245]

Beautiful music and beautiful videos Alex 👏👏👏

[@busterdee8228]

When the convent is 'done,' it will spawn a 6-month timelapse at 2X. Hopefully, Pethericks and friends are still hale and smiling, with one heck of a story to tell. This is sooooo exciting.

[@eletakelley7188]

Maybe under glass on the library tables?

[@davidwilliss5555]

Yah, but Alex likes to do slow motion. I don't know if time lapse is in his vocabulary 😀

[@PMyers-nn5cz]

Please please try to save the secret room, its convents history and it should be kept out of a mark of respect for all those poor souls who had to hide there in fear. You will think of away to do it and also the wall writing. If you can do that amazing saving of the organ I know you can do this Billy, you always do so amazingly well with such vision.

[@aldavis5328]

Bringing love and life to a building that so needs. Proud to know people still care. Thank you for sharing with all of us.

[@lizstevenson7801]

Historically please save and document the wallpaper segments in the secret room, but it is the past and holds many secrets that will never be told. You must think of the future where this building is heading and the benifits to the towns people, they and most importantly their ancesters deserve this new library for generations to come. Well done everyone, great work. 💕🇦🇺

[@colleengardiner77]

Ah Simon! So glad to see you back! What a sight for sore eyes! Wow!

[@ruththomas6361]

While I love remodeling, demolition is something I do NOT like at all. However, it is surprisingly satisfying to watch someone else tear out the walls and ceilings and floors while I sit here with a cup of coffee. Crack on, boys!

[@cathymcgrath7909]

Maybe you could deconstruct the bookcase from the secret room, and add it to the new library. You could create a new secret room behind it and it would serve as an archive, to store all of the things you wish to store both in physical or in digital form.

[@CorrectHorse126]

Get someone to digitise the wallpaper designs, so you can order up a bunch of rolls of it and do something cool! Also - I love the look of things that have had interesting repairs over the years - reinforcing the existing beam would tell a great story.

[@gillyflowers]

Great to see Simon back!

[@GyurlTrini]

Hey Billy! Great work on the demolition! ... regarding the preservation of the wall / plaster, and the secret room, I agree with chrisfreer about consulting an archivist, as they will know best. For me, for that wall, if it's possible to keep just that wall / post & demo the rest, then do so (but maybe cover it to protect it). However, if it's not possible, I wonder if encasing it in something like silicone or maybe sticking a sheet of hard, clear plastic to it, and then cutting the plaster out of the wall (or maybe that entire section of wall), would help? That may require a bit more thought, and, that's where an archivist will be able to guide you better.

[@michaelmanning5379]

When the House of the Seven Gables in Salem, MA was restored the owner restored it to how it was in the novel, rather than real life. She decided that there must have been a secret passage that allowed one of the characters to appear unexpectedly. Accordingly, she had her architect include a secret door that opened behind the wood store beside the fireplace. It leads to a tight staircase that winds its way around the chimney to an attic bedroom that she had decided that character rented. My point is that visitors LOVE secret panels and hidden rooms. I trust that any team that can disassemble a pipe organ and reassemble it can do the same with a hidden room. The question is WHERE to reassemble it? Think about moving it to one of the rooms near the entrance hallway so that visitors can see it without traipsing through areas that might be inconvenient, particularly if the convent becomes a boutique hotel. You've mentioned having a display of items relating to the history of the convent. Logically, the secret room should be near to this. On a vaguely-related note . . . if the convent is destined to be a hotel, won't things like fire alarms and sprinkler systems be required by code? I realize they can be retrofitted but looking at the work from the 1970s and how unsympathetic the "improvements" were to the original beauty of the convent, I' wondering whether it would be better to include such features in your design. (All of this is easy for me to say. I don't have to pay for anything!)

[@timcolgan1]

That video title could bring in a whole new demographic of subscribers. :)

[@donnagagne3813]

What an amazing team you have Billy. God Bless all you hard workers.

[@MemineAussi]

Reciprocating saw around the edges, bracing within the main body, move the entire wall in one piece? Maybe even reconstruct the priest hole elsewhere?

[@peacefulair-breather9785]

In regards to the wallpaper, there are companies who specialize in replication of vintage wallpaper. Contact them to see how to preserve the wall paper. With the plaster, maybe placing a film over it prior to removal would help stabilize? Baumgartner restorations uses a Japanese mulberry tissue paper applied with fish gelatin which is all water soluble on his fine art projects. Something along that line ????

[@CCTippers]

With regard to the beam, one option is it be supported propped first, then have steel plate scarfed in on both sides then bolted through and re cladded to blend back in. Opt 2 New Support Beams on either side. Just a couple of ideas to try and save that beautiful secret room, those wallpaper have been untouched by natural light which is why there so well preserved. If you want some more advice/ ideas husband would be willing to help. Good luck.

[@pennydonoghue8667]

Great to see Simon back with you. 🥳 Happy New Year everyone. You were asking about what to do in the secret room to preserve if nothing else the wallpaper. What I have seen in other renovation projects is people have carefully removed it and put the paper in picture frames. Just don't put them up where they would be in direct sunlight because of fading. Maybe you might want to put together a small room with a gallery of historical pictures and other artifacts you find while renovating🥳. Looking amazing.

[@GrandmaLM]

Yes, a museum maybe using a nuns original cell, or two or three.

[@Sisteryoda1440]

I was thinking that framing the wallpaper was a good idea too.

[@angleaschroeder6531]

Billy, please consider creating a museum area somewhere in the convent where artifacts and perhaps even the secret room could be reassembled and displayed. And thank you all so much for sharing your lives and incredible talents with us

[@nutti2you380]

I agree with everyone saying to save the writing and the room, somehow, if at all possible. I would NOT redisplay the wallpaper in a lighted area, as the dark of the room likely helped preserve the colors. Definitely reach out to museums or universities to ask for advice.

[@lisamiracle940]

Billy I watched you and the team take apart a 15th C organ and rebuild it. Amazing! You can save, document and rebuild the priest hole. I know you can! Also please save the strange writing on the wall. I do believe both of these are historic artifacts. May God bless you and the team in this amazing and important endeavor!

[@kkay2270]

My hope is that you preserve as much as you can of any historical discoveries. If you have to consult an expert on how to remove the wallpaper, cabinet, boards, and plaster with messages, it will be well worth it. The historical significance is important. Reconstructing the secret room would be such an interesting feature for future guests of the Convent.

[@jennifer64707]

Find a way to save the hidden room and put it all back behind the new library this is important history to the convent to important to lose

[@janescott4574]

If it were me I’d scan and document the hidden room, then carefully remove the wallpaper and frame a piece of each pattern in matching frames and put them in the library or reception area as an interesting part of the convents history.

[@teresadawson1351]

Perhaps you can somehow cut out the walls? Then, you could put them back with a plexiglass window/door facing out to the library. You could then also do a plexiglass rame around the writng on the wall, and even put some to expose some of the original stone / brick on the exterior walls. Maybe even do something with plexiglass walls around a section of the Oak frame. As an American, I can say there is so much value in being able to see some of these fframed out anchiet features, but still have your refined look around them

[@elizabethedwards7596]

Billy, makes a historical area room. It is so important to history 😊.

[@mikepallister3037]

Bro your dad is a mans man LOVE everything he stands for,seems a wonderful man

[@1111Thatway]

I vividly recall the day you acquired the keys to this place. The restorations you carried out are impressive, and the speed at which you completed them is commendable. Although I appreciate the secret room, I must admit that it is a necessary measure. Your work is truly magnificent, and I urge you to continue with the same level of dedication and commitment. Lastly, I couldn't help but notice that Simon is an absolutely adorable addition to the team. Keep up the good work you do. Magnificent work ."Crack On" Simon is adorable.

[@StonedustandStardust]

Happy to see Simon back! Please do try to preserve what you can of the "priest hole" . It is fascinating. If you have photos of the writing on the wall, perhaps someone can paint it on a panel and hang it somewhere for visitors to see. Maybe set aside a little room as a museum and gift shop.

[@loraoflahrity130]

Whew! I thought the kitchen was a huge project! Thank you for all your hard back breaking work. I love watching everyday ❤

[@kerrybyers257]

Billy, could you explain the French building permitting/inspection process?