Fort Masonry

Example of damage caused by failing drainage system.

NPS Photo

Why Are Repairs Needed?

Fort Pulaski is estimated to be composed of roughly 25 million bricks. As such, masonry is the largest component of the structure itself and forms a significant percentage of all of the fort’s critical systems. Time, inappropriate mortars from past campaigning, and exposure to the elements have resulted in deterioration of the mortar joints and damage to the brick. This project addresses current preservation needs and will allow the fort to be kept in good condition.

What is Being Done?

Repair and restoration of masonry will address on-going needs within Fort Pulaski. This work will primarily involve repointing failing mortar joints and minor masonry repair within the casemates. This work will also include inspections, documentation, cleaning, chiseling, repointing, and minor repair of the masonry flooring supports that sit below the decking boards underneath the floors. All materials that are used will be historically appropriate, and any replacement brick will match all existing brick as closely as possible. Work will be completed on an incremental basis, and is prioritized based on the severity of damage and the potential for future deterioration.

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Repairing the moat masonry of Fort Pulaski

NPS Photo

Mission 66

Several New Deal agencies, including the Civil Works Administration (CWA,) the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC,) and the Public Works Administration (PWA,) played a role in the preservation of Fort Pulaski during the 1930’s. Several Mission 66 era projects were undertaken at Fort Pulaski in the late 1950’s, which included masonry repairs. Since the conclusion of Mission 66, maintenance and preservation of Fort Pulaski has remained a priority.

TTAP Interns work to repair brick damaged from water infiltration

NPS Photo

The Mission Continues

Currently, preservation efforts of the masonry of Fort Pulaski will be limited to casemates that have sustained the most damage and need immediate attention. All casemates will be inspected and documented prior to work begining. This project will provide critical information and guide future preservation efforts of the forts masonry assets and critical systems. Areas in need of repair will be cleaned with a gentle biological solution that removes any dirt and biological growth on the surface of the masonry. These areas will then be chiseled to remove damaged and deteriorating mortar joints. The final step will be repointing using a historically approriate mortar mix. This work is being completed by NPS staff, as well as Traditional Trades Apprenticeship Program (TTAP) interns.

Learn More
Find out more about the Traditional Trade Apprenticeship Program.