This nineteenth-century columbarium is the central structure in a cemetery for Maryland’s Jesuit priests affiliated with St. Alphonsus Rodriguez Church.

Because of rising damp problems, WEI removed the asphalt paving surrounding the structure and dug trenches at the perimeter, installing drainage pipes sloped toward the drainage field.  Bluestone pavers were installed above grade for a much more finished look to the landscaping, and brass drain covers were installed to prevent debris from entering the drains with the storm water.  Next, WEI’s masons removed the damaged granite facing so that the structural masonry could be repaired.  The granite veneer was then repaired when possible, or replaced with matching stone.  The severely damaged cupola was removed to the WEI mill shop, where it was measured meticulously, replicated piece by piece, and assembled.  The built cupola was transported to the site and installed.  After a subcontractor finished installing the roof, WEI installed the restored zinc-coated copper cross to the dome.  The mill shop also restored the complex wooden cornice below the bell-shaped roof.  Finally, WEI replicated the urns on the roof and restored the iron fence surrounding the structure, and supervised the interior plasterwork.

This job required a great deal of sensitivity to accomplish, because of the cemetery environs.  All work had to be done with small equipment or by hand.  Large materials had to be craned in from the road due to access difficulties.