Typical round turret in Perkasie - Maintenance work was completed on this 530 W. Market Street turret during the summer of 2000. The turret's look has changed somewhat since this photo.

 TURRETS

A turret is a small tower, usually one forming part of a larger structure. The shape of the base of the turret is usually round (conical top) but a number of six or eight sided angular bases (tent roof with angles) can also be found in Perkasie. The homes in Perkasie that feature these turrets are in the Victorian Period (late1800's and early 1900's; many of them feature many other fancy decorative details.

Turrets are usually built for an interesting architectural design and a fine view from the turret. It is still possible to get turrets built if one wants to spend $5000 - $10,000. Turrets normally have a slate roof, glass windows, and the framing is usually wood. They are usually as close to a circle as possible. Turrets in Perkasie may be found on homes constructed with wood framing & siding, brick, or stone building materials. Windows may feature stained glass designs with thick leading; this may give the window a Medieval look.

Turrets first appeared in England and most of Europe at the same time. Turrets usually don't reach the ground. Due to their unusual shape, when maintaining the turret it is necessary to custom cut the pieces to fit the form. Re-shingling a turret costs significantly more than a flat roof. Unfortunately, due to the expense of such custom work many turrets have their tops removed or may be redesigned.

 
 This hexagonal (six sided) turret has a small gabled window in the roof area. Maintenance on this turret has kept the use of slate shingles with metal edging (original materials).   This turret has been chopped off. The turret roof line now matches that of the main roof. Unfortunately when repairs are made in such a manner, buildings lose their charm and a bit of their history.

    Some architectural structures in Perkasie have tent roofs that are not on a separate structure. These roofs may be part of a larger roof system. The tent roof at left can found on Walnut street between Fifth & Sixth Streets.

Today, a large new tower has been added to the town. The new district court building replaces the former H.G. Moyer building that was burnt down in the Great Perkasie Fire of 1988. This building opened for use by the Bucks County District Court and other businesses. The design of this red roof echoes the shape of many turrets and tent roofs in the Olde Towne section of Perkasie where the court building is located.

 

 

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