This summer, the amazing craftsmanship of the crew working on the rehabilitation of Pigeon Point Lighthouse is coming to life. Crumbling masonry is being diligently removed with hand tools and new bricks laid by a master mason at the base of the tower and at the upper reaches of the building.

The first of three circular bond beams is being constructed around the upper neck of the tower. This initial structure replaces the broken belt course that caused the closure of the tower 25 years ago. Once the old brick was carefully removed, steel rebar was shaped and welded to create the foundation for the ring. Commonly known as GFRP, a glass fiber reinforced polymer, is poured into a form.

When cured, it will be painted black to resemble the belt course. This process will be repeated for the other two bond beams. Each of these will sit at the level of the two galleries, or balconies. Ultimately, all the old masonry between the new circular beams will be demolished and replaced with new brick in preparation for the new stainless-steel brackets and gallery decks.

— Julia Barrow, Special Projects Coordinator