The Preservation Team consists of Jeff Cleverley, Jack Frost and Don Steeley. Team leader - Jeff MacDonald Archaeologist - Cecile Gevock

Contents Corner

All finish plumbing and electrical services have been completed by out-sourced contractors.

The Preservation Crew has completed all interior punch-list items through out Contents Corner, with the intention to continue exterior tasks in warmer months.

Kiskadden Barn

The interior northwest corner continues to receive repointing applications, to extend below grade, in preparation for an internal steel support system to be installed as part of seismic retrofitting measures for all extant masonry.

Wood cladding, which had formed an old horse stall, has been removed from the north wall interior. Layers of soil and debris have been removed revealing missing units within the masonry wall systems. Stones shall be replaced with in-kind material, set and pointed with 3:1 mortar mixed with local screened sand and natural hydraulic lime.

Prasch Blacksmith Shop

A Conditions Assessment report is being assembled, and shall be completed prior to any timber frame construction/stabilization procedures. The report shall also include recommendations for additional considerations within the project site, applicable to a more comprehensive Historic Structure Report, which is strongly recommended for future reference.

The two forge chimneys located within the shop have been temporarily stabilized with sized plywood sections, secured with steel banding.

The staff archaeologist conducted a study of silt and soil deposits on and around the forge hearth. Surfaces are being cleaned to determine further structural instabilities, and assess treatment options.

Miscellaneous

o Several empty paint containers, in addition to some containing old mineral spirits, were discovered and removed from the Dr Ames double cottage in Virginia City. The items containing liquid were brought to the preservation shop field to "vapor -off" Empty containers have been discarded.

o A grant application was submitted to the National Trust Restore America program on behalf of the Hickman house. Additional funding would help support preservation efforts to the property listed on the NPS II work plan.

o A second grant application was begun for technical research and applications of natural hydraulic lime, presently being applied to various sites in Virginia City. The grant is being offered through the National Park Service's National Center for Preservation Technology and Training.

o Weekly inspections have been initiated for all Heritage Commission properties.

o The Nevada City Hotel crawlspace along the south wall was examined and fitted with temporary stabilization, and a new bulkhead. The sill log will need complete replacement, and further assessment of the entire structure is recommended.

o The Village Pump received winterizing treatments and supports were installed beneath a deflecting portion of the central girder, in preparation for items to be stored during the winter months.

o Broken and missing sections of glass were observed at the Gilbert House. A missing light on the north façade was replaced, while a larger section of a bay window on the west façade was boarded.

Meetings

11.22.04

The Montana Heritage Commission all staff meeting was held at the Content's Corner Conference room.