Prasch Blacksmith Shop - Michael Tornabene led a group of Americorp in achieving a uniform depth of three feet for all footing holes. Excavation is complete for areas identified to receive foundation footings, in preparation for timber frame underpinning and structural stabilization. Historic architect Ken Sievert shall present a draft HSR and timber frame plans during September of 2005. A comprehensive conditions assessment continues to develop as research presents in conjunction with on site evaluation and the HSR draft. All documentation shall be made available for amended final HSR documentation.

Kissling House, a.k.a Arizona Commodities Building - Finish excavation, forming and pouring was completed for six reinforced concrete pier footings, measuring two feet square by three feet deep. Historic architect Ken Sievert was consulted and furnished revised planning for the construction of the new foundation system, which shall be created and installed according to specifications.

A completion report, in addition to any monthly and any interim reporting as required, shall include condition assessments and all written and photographic documentation.

Cabbage Patch - The discovery of significant archaeological findings has resulted in the temporary suspension of building stabilization procedures. A comprehensive archaeological study shall be conducted through out the entire site through direct consultation with Montana SHPO. Preservation of the historic structures shall resume upon completion of the MHC and SHPO archaeological survey and assessment.

Village Pump - A revised and completed set of measured drawings was created by Michael Tornabene to reflect elevations and extant conditions of the mid-twentieth century structure and furnished to the Site Manager. The Drawings shall also be forwarded to Montana SHPO and Ken Sievert to supplement collective building files and future conditions assessment.

Kramer Dress Shop - Initial assessment was begun in August of the critically failing common wall shared by the Kramer Dress Shop on the west and the Goldberg-McGovern-Weston Hotel on the east. Current findings have produced a substantial amount of cultural resource material in near to excellent condition. Among the more curious and unique features are over a dozen layers of intact wall coverings, and the existence of a stretched animal hide membrane over the original lodge pole roofing. Preservation staff is consulting with the Smithsonian Institute/Cooper Hewitt Museum, Winterthur Museum, and the Getty Institute research and conservation personnel over proper treatment.

Sim Fergusson Cabin - Roof stabilization, floating-floor installation, and Chinking and Daubing treatments are complete and shall be followed by the setting of a stone foundation, and installation of doors and windows. Restoration efforts draw reference from historic photos of Sim Fergusson in front of his cabin recently acquired from the Montana Historical Society.

Meetings

7.25.05 - The Montana Heritage Commission all staff meeting was held at Content’s Corner.

7.31.05 - Jeff Cleverley, Michael Tornabene and Jeff MacDonald met with Ken Sievert to visit and discuss Prasch Blacksmith Shop and Kissling House projects.