GEORGE WASHINGTON MEMORIAL PARKWAY Patowmack Canal and Locks (Great Falls Section) Historic Structures Report — Architectural Data Section

A. MONITORING

It is important to know that the photographic drawings produced for this document were done in this format to form a starting point for the continuing evaluation of structures and development of a preservation program for the canal. It is highly recommended that the park use the existing conditions drawings as a partial preservation maintenance guide. A qualified cultural resource specialist would reevaluate the conditions of the canal features once a year. This should be accomplished in the early spring before the vegetation has a chance to take control. Any change in conditions could be noted directly on the drawings and dated. It is also advised that along with this documentation a series of photographs be taken of the canal features from the same locations as those designated on the site plans of the existing conditions drawings. As conditions can vary from year to year this documentation should prove to be invaluable in revising, if necessary, the existing priorities outlined in this report. Also, if desired, the park could set up a series of strain gauges to more accurately measure both horizontal and vertical movement within the walls.

B. INTERPRETATION

At the present time, the path of the canal is not very well defined. As part of the preferred alternative, a portion of the canal is to be better defined and delineated. A simple solution before this takes place would be to mow the grass within the canal bed at a different height than the adjacent grounds. Another option would be just to modify the existing mowing habits and cut the area within the canal bed at a more frequent rate than the surrounding grass.

The trails along the entire length of the canal need to be reviewed and reevaluated. The park should assess how to move the visitor through the resource to provide the best interpretation while at the same time avoiding certain features that are prone to damage by heavy pedestrian traffic.

In the main portion of the park all of the trails to the river's edge must cross the canal. As the gorge and the falls play a major role in the park's visitation, it is important to coordinate pathways leading to these natural features with the canal trails.

It is recommended that a more concentrated effort be placed on the canal exhibits located at the Visitor Center. As this may be the initial introduction of the canal to the park visitor, this is the ideal staging area to present the resource to the public and explain the ongoing preservation work. The use of various concerned citizen groups to help research, plan and implement some new exhibits appears to be an appropriate use of their time and talents. These exhibits could be rotated and take on various themes ranging from the engineering technology necessary to construct the canal to family life in Matildaville. Another topic of interest could entail a photographic exhibit of the mason's marks. The visitor could see the exhibit indoors and then go out to the site and discover the marks. The potential is endless. If volunteer help is utilized, a series of review steps needs to be implemented to ensure that the material being presented to the public has been well documented and researched.

C. PRESERVATION

In 1986, the park initiated a small maintenance program to halt further deterioration of the canal features. If line item funding is not available in the near future, it is highly recommended that the park continue to plan a yearly maintenance program following the priorities listed in the preferred alternative. This work should be accomplished under the direction of a trained cultural resource specialist.

Even after a preferred alternative is implemented, a cyclic maintenance budget will be required in order to maintain the canal features. Without a continuing commitment, the resource could quickly return to a deteriorated condition and it could be expected to deteriorate further with time.

As funding has become more limited for projects such as this, alternative funding sources, from outside the government sector, may be appropriate. The Washington metropolitan area offers a large grouping of building trade unions, associations, and contractors. Discussions with these types of offices might lead to the canal being used as an open preservation laboratory where the park and the building trades share in the costs and expertise necessary to preserve the resource.

D. FUTURE NEEDS

Engineering Assistance

Incorporate engineering study and documentation into on-going preservation work to design rational stabilization systems based on existing stresses and impacting factors (drainage, flood control, hydrostatic pressure, structural features, etc.)

Matildaville Ruins

Stabilize existing foundations and structures in Matildaville from further active deterioration using pointing, grouting and capping of masonry. Tree removal and vegetation control program is also required.

Archeological Study

Incorporate an active archeological program with the preservation effort. Work during the 1986 season yielded a wealth of information and artifacts which justifies professional assistance in this field.

Flood Control

Initiate general flood control study and program protecting cultural resources in the park.