Newsletter -July 2008
From Randy’s Desk:


BAC Local 3-CA member's play a major role in the restoration of the San Carlos Cathedral in Monterey, CA

BAC Local 3-CA members put on their hard hats and went to work; work rebuilding history. Conserving and restoring a legacy was the focus of each mason. Together their fine skills restored the stone of the oldest continuous house of worship in the State of California - The San Carlos Cathedral in Monterey, CA.

After being destroyed by fire, the San Carlos Cathedral was rebuilt out of sandstone using lime and sand as mortar. This was completed in 1794 reflecting the work of the earliest building designer in the State.

After years of water and structural deterioration, the structure was in serious need of restoration. Moisture had been trapped in the walls causing cracks and weakening the stone. The safety of the Parishioners, who had attended numerous baptisms, masses, weddings, funerals and other events was now in jeopardy.

"What's worse is the deterioration that cannot be seen; Stones decaying due to centuries of water intrusion, and some of the support systems showing their age." said Tony Crosby of the Cornerstone Campaign to conserve and restore a National Treasure and California Historical Site..

The work done by the masons included the removal of the existing stone. When the unreinforced walls were exposed they found extensive cracks, unfilled voids, holes and areas filled with adobe and rubble. Skilled masons used the old stone, some new stone, lime imported from France, sand and water to painstakingly restore the Cathedral.

BAC 3-CA masons from Patania Masonry of Salinas, CA, devoted over 2800 man hours of work to the project. I would like to acknowledge the following Masons who worked on this project; Samuel Aguilar, Alberto Barrera, Jose Fuentes, Mark Graham, Sal Marchese, Roberto Martinez, Ben Montano, Rigo Ortiz, Giuseppe Patania, Pedro Montano and Gregorio Vazquez.

"Our members were able restore a piece of history and at the same time show the incredible skills that union masons possess and contribute to the community and society as a whole".

Randy Smith, Field Representative, BAC Local 3-CA.