Kiskadden Barn - Temporary steel shoring has been removed from the exterior of the west wall, following the completion of interior pinning and mortar applications to the permanent steel seismic bracing. Masonry stabilization and re-pointing continues on the northwest interior and exterior corner, while exploring and analyzing the use of a clay-rich mud mortar employed in the original rubble stone construction. Utilizing site sourced and reconstituted mud mortar, a mock-up sample was created to determine the strength and effectiveness of this original binder that is visible in portions of the north and south rubble wall sections. It is an original material under consideration for a non-bearing application at the lower north wall, which shall reconstruct a portion of missing rubble stone masonry, and fill a void between existing Andesite stone masonry to the west and new concrete stem wall to the east. Further testing is needed to determine is the material will be suitable for long-term application, and the Montana SHPO office shall remain in consultation. Removal of brush and undergrowth is largely completed with periodic maintenance to continue through out the season, in addition to re-grading of the buildings perimeter.

Prasch Blacksmith Shop - An archaeological assessment is complete for areas identified to receive foundation footings, in preparation for timber frame underpinning and structural stabilization. Additional testing was also conducted along the exterior of the western wall in preparation for regarding to allow positive drainage for the site. See July Archaeology Report Historic architect Ken Sievert is expected to present a draft HSR and timber frame plans during the summer of 2005. A comprehensive conditions assessment continues to develop in conjunction with on site research and the HSR draft and shall be made available for amended final documentation. A review set of construction drawings was commented on by SHPO, and approved in writing on July 29th 2005.

Kissling House, a.k.a Arizona Commodities Building - The structure has been raised to a finish level position, approximately 14 to 16 inches above grade along the south façade, and approximately 8 to 12 inches along the north façade. This has allowed for the assessment and removal of rotten rough sawn 3”x 8” sill plates, which were replaced by a double course of pressure treated 2”x8” dimensional material. An assessment and replacement of undersized and/or failed floor joists, and the installation of rim joists has substantially increased the strength and overall effectiveness of the floor joist system, and has established positive engagement with sill and wall systems, to provide an interlocking framework above the forthcoming foundation systems.

An undersized central girder was reinforced with two courses of 3”x8” material and through-bolted to create a laminated girder. A central concrete pad was also poured beneath the girder to provide support for the existing chimney, following specifications outlined by the historic architect.

Excavation was also completed for six pier footings measuring two feet square by three feet deep. Historic architect Ken Sievert has furnished plans for the construction of the new foundation system, which shall be created and installed according to specifications.

*SHPO Pete Brown was consulted over the overall approach to stabilization, as well as documentation procedures and report content requirements. A review set of construction drawings was commented on by SHPO, and approved in writing on July 29th 2005. A completion report shall accompany monthly and any interim reporting, and shall include condition assessments in addition to all written and photographic documentation.

Cabbage Patch - Initial documentation has begun on the group of historic outbuildings located on the northwest portion of Wallace Street, which shall include an assessment for each of the structures and recommendations for treatment. An assessment brief was prepared, to include physical history and chain of title, and was furnished to Montana SHPO for comments. Following approval via email and phone conversation, a work plan shall be assembled to approach the various concerns related to stabilizing the structures. The assembled work plan shall also be furnished to SHPO for comment prior to the start of any invasive treatment. Overgrowth of brush and organic debris was removed from the site to allow for a more detailed assessment and mitigate impact to the structures.

Village Pump - A set of measured drawings was created to reflect elevations and extant conditions, of the mid-twentieth century structure, following potential interest in developing the site for private use. A floor plan will accompany the drawings, which shall be furnished to the Site Manager, in addition to supplementing the building file and future conditions assessment.

Miscellaneous

o The Preservation Team assisted curatorial staff members with the removal of MHC collections from the Stonewall Hall on Wallace Street.

o Michael Tornabene joins the preservation Team as a 90 day Short-Term Worker

o An earthquake measuring 5.5 was experienced in Virginia City on the evening of July 25th All masonry buildings were inspected and crack monitors observed the following day. Slight movement of approximately .5mm was recorded in the Gilbert Brewery malting tower. *See MHC Seismic Report July 26th, 2005.

o Temporary shoring was installed to support a seriously deflected portion of parapet wall, along the eastern portion of the Wells Fargo building. The shoring unit is supported with sand bags, and no penetration to the roof sheathing was made.

o The master Integrated Pest Management plan continues to develop for all MHC properties. Don Steeley responded to reports of Carpenter Ant activity in front of the City Bakery and applied Borate, and Advance ant treatments in addition to documenting the site. He will continue to monitor all present and future identified sites and treatments, along with continued research of treatment options for historic properties.

Meetings

7.14.05 - Preservation Specialist Jeff MacDonald accompanied Herb Dawson of NPS and approximately 20 Yellowstone Park employees on a tour of MHC preservation project sites. The Gilbert Brewery complex, Kiskadden, Prasch, and Content’s Corner were included in the site visit

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