Period
1867-1899
New York State Capitol: Great Western Staircase
Location
Albany, New York
Notables
National Historic Landmark
HISTORICAL LEGACY
The Great Western Staircase, also known as the Million Dollar Staircase, was designed by H.H. Richardson and completed under the direction of Isaac Perry in the 1890’s. The staircase is located at the center of the Capitol building and climbs four stories. In 1911, The Capitol suffered a devastating fire, and the staircase was greatly damaged with smoke, fire and water deterioration.
H. H. Richardson
Leopold Eidlitz
Frederick Law Olmstead
Historic Image of Staircase
Staircase after 1911 fire
PROJECT OVERVIEW
MCWB was tasked with bringing the staircase back to its original condition before the fire. The project involved intense research and testing of cleaning methods to ensure a successful restoration. The project also included refurbishing the 1895-1899 brass newel posts, veil light fixtures and the restoration of several windows surrounding the staircase.
RESEARCH & DOCUMENTATION
The staircase was built with Corsehill sandstone, limestone, granite, and medina sandstone. Extensive testing was conducted to determine the type and level of soiling on the stones at different floor levels in the staircase. The firm executed a study that provided the client with various cleaning and restoration methods that were determined to be the gentlest and most effective means to restore the staircase to its original state. MCWB and Quantum Engineering also performed a lighting analysis that would drive the refurbishment of the damaged lighting. Construction documents were prepared and carefully detailed the prescribed methods for restoring the staircase.
RESTORATION
The restoration process began with the careful removal of soot using a specialized method. Latex, chosen for its mild acidic properties, was sprayed onto the surface and left to dry, allowing it to gently react with the soot. Once dried, the latex peeled off, taking the soot with it. To address any remaining residue, masons used brushes for a thorough cleaning. At the base of the staircase, new Medina sandstone was installed, complemented by additional accent lighting to enhance its visual appeal.
The original brass and bronze lighting fixtures were also restored. They were rewired, cleaned, and finished with a patina coating to recreate their original appearance. Additionally, the windows surrounding the staircase were backlit to emulate the natural light that once filtered through them before the light courts were filled in during the 1980s.
Today, the staircase has been returned to its early 19th-century splendor.
