New Orleans in the nineteenth century was an amalgam of cultures. In addition to the technical cross-fertilization ...the different metalworking traditions represented, there presumably would have been a thorough mixing of design sensibilities from Germany, France and England.

Metalwork

Years of deferred maintenance and vandalism have left the metalwork in the cemetery in very poor condition. Theft is the major cause of most missing metalwork in the cemetery. Many of the enclosures are completely or partially missing, the most vulnerable elements being the gates, crosses, and decorative details. Smaller items, such as the relief sculpture and cast iron urns, have also been lost to theft. The deteriorated condition of the metalwork sends a message that it is expendable and makes it easier for elements to be wrenched loose.

Other commonly found conditions include: structural failure and corrosion, racking, and failed alterations and repairs. Treatments include stabilization with temporary measures, surface protection, repairs and replacement.

Temporary measures can do much to stabilize loose and detached metalwork and safeguard its loss to theft and vandalism. Bracing and wiring loose elements and installing locks on gates allow elements to remain in place. If removal is necessary, all elements should be tagged and stored in a safe and dry location until repairs can be undertaken.

Most if not all cemetery metalwork traditionally received some type of coating for protection. The application of paints and coatings are therefore both historically appropriate and necessary to preserve the decorative metalwork. Prior to applying any finishes, the metalwork must be properly prepared or the finishes will fail prematurely or even cause accelerated corrosion by trapping moisture underneath. Careful cleaning is also useful in revealing structural defects that might require attention prior to refinishing. All cleaned ironwork must be immediately treated with a quality inhibitive primer or coating to prevent the formation of rust which will interfere with adhesion of the new coating. This is especially important in the humid environment of New Orleans. See More on Protective Coatings.

Most repairs to metalwork require a qualified professional. While repair using original techniques is expensive because of the specialized skills needed, there are excellent reasons for making the investment. See the full discussion of cleaning, protection, repair and replacement options in the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Guidelines for Preservation and Restoration. The full document of guidelines can be downloaded as a pdf file. Go There.