Kiskadden Barn - A structural steel system, erected in both the northeast and northwest corners of the building, has been fastened to the northwest masonry walls by way of galvanized steel anchor bolts, following borings into selected masonry units. The anchor bolts measure 5/8” x 13” and are set in place with Hilti’s Hit 150 anchor adhesive for stone and masonry. The northeast corner steel system was secured with similar fasteners to the poured foundation, in addition to several timber-framing members and corner post. The northeast corner steelwork was also clad in a veneer of one-inch rough-sawn aged planking to minimize visual impact. The northwest corner steel framework will be left exposed, as it is not visible to the public, following on-site discussion by historic architect Ken Sievert, SHPO Pete Brown, and Preservation Specialist Jeff MacDonald. Masonry stabilization and re-pointing continues on the northwest corner exterior, with the intention to remove earlier temporary vertical steel shoring at the west corner during the summer or fall of 2005. Removal of brush and undergrowth, in addition to re-grading of the buildings perimeter shall also proceed through out the summer.

Prasch Blacksmith Shop - A comprehensive conditions assessment continues to develop in conjunction with on site research, and the HSR draft. An archaeological assessment has begun in areas identified to receive foundation footings, in preparation for timber frame underpinning and structural stabilization. Historic architect Ken Sievert is expected to present a draft HSR and timber frame plans during the summer of 2005.

Kissling House, a.k.a Arizona Commodities Building - Following an initial assessment, preservation team members have mitigated organic debris and mold hazards from the building interior, through physical removal of contaminated and decaying material and creating positive airflow. A solution of chlorine bleach and water was also applied to interior surfaces, which has contributed to the elimination of the mold hazard.

MHC Preservation Specialist, Safety Officer, and Integrated Pest Management technician Don Steeley is researching mold types and mitigation measures in conjunction with the development of the MHC master Integrated Pest Management plan.

In addition to property deed records produced by MHC Curator of History John Ellingsen, written and photographic documentation of the structure has begun and shall proceed through out the preservation and stabilization process.

The structure was raised to a level position, approximately 10 to 12 inches along the south façade, and approximately 4 to 6 inches along the north façade to allow for the assessment and removal of rotten rough sawn 3”x 8” sill plates, which are to be replaced with a double course of pressure treated 2”x8” dimensional material. Interior floor sheathing consisting of 1’x 6” tongue and groove material has been removed to allow for assessment and replacement of undersized and/or failed floor joists, and to allow for the installation of rim joists to complete the floor joist framework. It is believed the present “floating” floor system is not original to the structure and was installed by Bovey Restorations during the mid-twentieth century. Efforts shall be made to reinforce the existing flooring, and create positive engagement with sill and wall systems, to provide an interlocking framework above the forthcoming foundation systems.

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

Miscellaneous

o The Preservation Team presented the Techniques of Historic Masonry seminar hosted by MHC Masonry Preservation Specialist Jeff Cleverley. The seminar is the second in a series of workshops presented by the newly revived Virginia City Institute for Preservation Research & Technology. The group of attendees undertook stabilization and preservation of masonry units along portions of the lower east wall of Content’s Corner, employing site-matched lime mortar to secure several loose stones and failed original mortar, along with stabilization of original parging.

o Preservation Team members and Curatorial staff joined Wood Conservator John Kjelland to conduct a site assessment of the Gilbert House. All observed that conditions through out the structure continue to deteriorate, and agreed that an approach to preserving the structure will be complex and costly. Mr. Kjelland concurred with preservation staff that much of the historic fabric along the north façade, and likely interior portions are heavily deteriorated and/ or mold contaminated, and will require complete replacement. The Gilbert House should be considered critically at-risk, and accelerating in a state of deterioration.

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

6.6.05 - Jeff MacDonald met with architect Ken Sievert and foundations contractor Mike Gittens to discuss options for the Gilbert Brewery malting tower stabilization.

6.6.05 - Historic architect Ken Sievert, SHPO Pete Brown, and Preservation Specialist Jeff MacDonald conducted the quarterly review of MHC preservation project sites. The Brewery complex, Kiskadden, Prasch, and the Kissling house were included in the site visit

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

6.27.05 - Lead Preservation Specialist Jeff MacDonald attended the Sate Historic Preservation conference in Billings, MT

6.30.05 - The Preservation Team attended a DOC web-based security training workshop at Content’s Corner