Savannah, Georgia is home to many historical landmarks, but none as significant as the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. This iconic structure, with its soaring spires and intricate architecture, stands as a testament to the city’s rich heritage and spiritual life. Among the many stories intertwined with the cathedral’s history, one stands out: the extensive restoration work carried out by Rives Worrell, a company that became part of JE Dunn Construction in 2011.
The story begins in the late 1990s when Rives Worrell, led by the Murphy family, took on the monumental task of renovating the cathedral. Walter Murphy, whose grandfather Rives Worrell founded the company, recalls the intricate work involved in restoring such an old and cherished building. “This cathedral, built in the 1800s, required a careful touch and an understanding of historical craftsmanship,” Murphy explained. The renovation was completed in 1999, under the watchful eyes of Monsignor O’Neill and Bishop Boland, both deeply respected figures in the local community.
Fast forward to 2011, a pivotal year when JE Dunn acquired Rives Worrell, cementing its presence in Savannah. This partnership not only brought together two storied companies but also set the stage for further restoration projects at the cathedral. One such project was the renovation of the spires, an endeavor that began in 2012. “Working on the spires was a significant challenge,” Murphy noted. “The original structures were on brick foundations with timber piles, and we had to employ old-world craftsmanship to ensure the integrity of the restoration.”
The spire renovation was more than just a technical challenge; it was a journey into the past. Murphy, along with Bishop Boland and Monsignor O’Neill, traveled to Italy to procure authentic materials. “We bought the confessional, the ambo, and all the marble for the altar and the baptismal font from Italy. It was essential to maintain the historical authenticity of the cathedral,” he said.
One of the most remarkable discoveries during the renovation was the original heart pine flooring hidden beneath vinyl tiles. “I got a call saying, ‘You need to come to the cathedral right now.’ When I arrived, I saw the most beautiful heart pine wood flooring that had been covered for years. We decided to restore it rather than replacing it with modern materials,” Murphy shared. This decision not only preserved the historical essence of the cathedral but also revealed a hidden gem of craftsmanship from centuries past.
The partnership between Rives Worrell and JE Dunn extended beyond just one project. Together, they undertook multiple significant projects in Savannah, including a $5 million gymnasium and a $30 million high school, eventually securing $60 million worth of work. This successful collaboration led to JE Dunn’s deeper integration into the Savannah community, with Murphy continuing to play a vital role in business development and maintaining relationships with key clients like the Saint Joseph Catholic Hospital.
The Murphy family’s connection to the cathedral runs deep. “My grandparents were married there, my parents were married there, my wife and I were married there, and all three of my daughters were married in that church. Our family’s history with the cathedral dates back to 1920,” Murphy proudly recounted. This personal connection added a layer of commitment and dedication to every project undertaken at the cathedral.
St. John’s Cathedral remains a beacon of faith and history in Savannah, beautifully restored and preserved thanks to the partnership between Rives Worrell and JE Dunn. This collaboration not only revitalized a historic landmark but also strengthened the ties between a local community and a company dedicated to honoring its past while building its future. The cathedral, especially when adorned for Christmas, stands as a symbol of the enduring legacy of craftsmanship, faith, and community.