During the ongoing Mansion Revitalization Project, significant work has been undertaken to remove masonry outside the New Room and on the piazza—a crucial step in ensuring the long-term preservation and stability of Washington's beloved home.
Preservation
Mansion Revitalization Project
Mount Vernon has embarked on a landmark preservation project to ensure the Mansion's structural integrity for generations to come.
North Stoop
Dominion Traditional Building Group masons carefully removed the stoop near the west door of the New Room, as well as the paving on the piazza floor, to provide access to critical framing elements that required repair. Removal of the stoop allowed the team to reach the sill level, which was essential for both framing repairs and the installation of a new sill piece.
Dominion Traditional Building Group masons remove steps from the Mansion’s north stoop. (MVLA)
Masons inspect a stone on the Mansion’s north stoop. (MVLA)
Piazza
The work extended to the piazza, where pavers were also removed. This was done not only to prepare for the eventual insertion of new sills but also to accommodate the installation of shoring that will support the Mansion while the new sills are installed.
Masons carefully remove paving stones from the piazza. (MVLA)
Original to Washington?
The stones removed are not original to the 18th century; in fact, multiple generations of piazza pavers have been used over the years, and numerous repairs have been made to the stoop, reflecting the evolving preservation efforts at Mount Vernon. Such knowledge informs the Preservation team’s efforts. Each aspect of the Mansion Revitalization Project is approached with careful consideration, guided by the awareness that every element of the Mansion has a story to tell.
(MVLA)
As the Mansion Revitalization Project continues, these steps are vital to preserving the structural integrity of Mount Vernon while honoring its rich history. Stay tuned for more updates as the project unfolds, revealing new insights into George Washington's iconic estate.
Mansion Revitalization Blog
Follow along as we post updates and discoveries from the landmark Mansion Revitalization Project.
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