The Laylight

Layout and colors of the original laylight

NPS Photo

As part of the construction contract for the George Rogers Clark Memorial, it called for a laylight. Essentially a laylight is an interior design which acts as a division between two interior spaces and allows light to pass through. As such the laylight within the memorial separates the skylight above in the ceiling of the memorial from the interior of the rotunda.

Initially the laylight was etched and painted with an intricate design of swirls in the outer rings with the Seal of the United States at the center. However the lead paint began chipping and wearing away soon after installation. Today the etchings can be seen but none of the original color is left.

The cost came to just under $13,400.00 and the project was awarded to the General Bronze Corporation of Long Island, NY. Initially the laylight was etched and painted with an intricate design of swirls in the outer rings with the Seal of the United States at the center.

 

The memorial laylight as seen today

NPS Photo

A transluscent roof covers the laylight to protect it from weather.

Mural 1 Kentucky: Entering the Great Valley