Basilica Interior Moisture Testing

Project Details by Fiscal Year
2011 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$7,000
Fund Source
Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund
Recipient
The Basilica Landmark
Start Date
October 2010
End Date
June 2011
Activity Type
Grants/Contracts
Counties Affected
Hennepin
Hennepin
Project Overview

Thirty monitors were installed to measure moisture readings in the upper reaches of the Basilica of St. Mary. Restoration projects had been put on hold due to previous water infiltration and the damage that was caused by saturation of masonry walls and ceiling plaster. Such infiltration takes a long time to dry. There were concerns that plaster was continuing to absorb moisture from the attic insulation or the masonry walls.

A lift was used to visually inspect and manually "sound" ceiling plaster on three representative arches where they meet the exterior wall. The monitoring sensors were then installed on the ceiling and in the attic. The results from the first readings confirm that the masonry walls are drying out. Restoration projects can resume.

Project Details
To monitor moisture in preparation for future restoration projects on the Bascilica of St. Mary, listed in the National Register of Historic Places
Legal Citation / Subdivision
LAWS of MINNESOTA for 2009 Ch. 172, Art. 1, Subd. 4 (b), Statewide Historic and Cultural Grants
Appropriation Language

(b) Statewide Historic and Cultural Grants. (i) $2,250,000 in 2010 and $4,500,000 in 2011 are appropriated for history programs and projects operated or conducted by or through local, county, regional or other historical or cultural organizations; or for activities to preserve significant historic and cultural resources. Funds are to be distributed through a competitive grants process. The Minnesota Historical Society shall administer these funds using established grants mechanisms, and with assistance from the advisory committee created herein.

2011 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$7,000
Other Funds Leveraged
$1,080
Project Manager
Salutation
Mr.
First Name
Dave
Last Name
Laurent
Street Address
PO Box 50010
City
Minneapolis
State
MN
Zip Code
55405
Administered By
Administered by
Location

345 W. Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155

Phone
651-259-3000