Many historical artifacts were uncovered when engineers started digging around the foundation, while other improvements are planned for inside the structure.
Digging around the foundation of the historical Mount Calvert home in Prince George’s County, Maryland, is like digging for buried treasure.
An 18th century Spanish silver dollar was uncovered recently and can be added to the many unique items found in the small museum housed on the first floor of the building, where visitors can find Native American weapons and arrowheads among many other historical treasures.
“It’s a site that takes you through so many moments in history,” says Peter Schwab, Architect with Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects, which is leading the restoration project on the site. “It’s a place that’s rich with purpose and stories.”
Mount Calvert is one of the most significant historical and archeological sites in the county. It was home to Native Americans, an early colonial town called Charles Town, and eventually an 18th and 19th century tobacco plantation.
The history of the site can be traced back more than 8,000 years with unique artifacts and stories passed down from one generation to the next.
Restoring the home
The biggest attraction to Mount Calvert is the stately brick house. First built in 1780, it has gone through its own changes over the years. A detached brick kitchen was added around 1800, and in 1840 it was all connected to form the structure that visitors see today.
Restoring the home has been a priority for PG County over the years. An earthquake and later a tornado caused some damage in the past decade or so, leading to small patch jobs. Today, a larger endeavor is being led by Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects to ensure the home is ready for enjoyment for future generations.
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Trenches are being dug around the foundation to prevent moisture from seeping into the brick foundation. Drainpipes will help remove the dampness from the ground and channel it toward the nearby Patuxent River.
But, Schwab says, the process can be slow because of the historic nature of the site. An archeologist is required to do the digging to ensure any historical artifacts that may be uncovered are properly preserved.
“It’s very important that these historical treasures are honored,” he says. “It takes time and care to ensure nothing is lost in preserving and protecting the site.”
For years to come
In addition to the foundational moisture concerns, M&D is repairing cracks in the chimney pent, typical of the 18th century in which two chimneys are connected, covered by a small sloping roof.
The floor landing on the stairwell will also be restored, as boards have warped over time. The firm will investigate other floorboards and potential windows for restoration, while installing a new heat pump and dehumidification system.
“All of these steps help ensure the historical structure is honored and kept in good condition for years to come,” Schwab says. “It’s gratifying to ensure this place will be around for others to come and learn the stories.”
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects took on the Architecture, Interior Design, & Overall Project Management for the new Bedford Elementary School, and the outcome is impactful.