Jessop Monument - Showing damage sustained in lightning strike
Completed in 1857 Jessops Monument Tower was struck by lightening in 1861.
The lightening strike split the 90 feet high tower from top to bottom on the north eastern side displacing many of the large masonry blocks.
The aim of the project was to stabilise the tower and preserve the structure.
Stone Mason at Work - Dressing stone for the Jessop Monument Restoration
Two types of stone were sourced to replace the missing masonry, Dukes Gritstone and Peakmoor Sandstone; these were brought to site in rectangular blocks weighing 350Kg where they were then cut to shape and size using traditional hand methods.
The dressed masonry blocks were then hoisted into position, bedded on a lime mortar and fixed in place using stainless steel ties, the voids behind the masonry were then grouted and the joints pointed using a lime mortar consisting of crushed brick, coal and stone.
Jessop Monument - Showing completed restoration works
Internally the cast iron ties which had badly corroded were removed and some small masonry blocks were replaced.
The iron work at the top of the tower was cleaned and repaired, and a new lightweight concrete platform installed and finally a new lightening conductor installed.