Historic buildings are more than just structures. They’re a tangible connection to the people and their stories that shape our communities.
Across New England, preserving these landmarks requires a careful balance of respecting the original materials and design while implementing reinforcements that improve structural integrity.
Through our historic restoration expertise, TWC Phoenix has become a trusted masonry partner for preserving some of the region’s most treasured structures, including multiple restoration projects at the historical Mount Auburn Cemetery.
Restoring the Story Chapel with Authentic Craftsmanship
One of TWC Phoenix’s most notable historic restoration projects at Mount Auburn cemetery was the preservation of the Story Chapel, a cherished local landmark known for its gorgeous traditional brownstone masonry. Completed over three phases spanning three years, the project focused on salvaging and rebuilding the upper third of the chapel while maintaining the building’s original character.
To guarantee historical accuracy, TWC Phoenix sourced and installed authentic Locharbriggs Brownstone, matching the original masonry as closely as possible. Historic masonry restoration requires a deep understanding of how the original materials of structure interact and change over time.
By carefully restoring deteriorated sections using historically faithful materials and techniques, TWC Phoenix preserved the chapel’s authentic appearance while improving its structural stability.
The opportunity to help preserve a massive piece of New England’s history made this restoration project one of our most meaningful. The Story Chapel continues to reflect Mount Auburn’s historic legacy while standing stronger than ever against the test of weather and time.
Fixing Rainwater Drainage at the Egyptian Revival Gateway Welcome Center
Building on our relationship with Mount Auburn Cemetery, TWC Phoenix recently completed restoration efforts on their Egyptian Revival Gateway’s Welcome Center, a project that began early Spring 2026.
Due to ongoing water build up and years of withstanding Northeastern weather, the welcome center was experiencing mortar deterioration throughout both the interior and exterior masonry.
After evaluating the exterior, Foster Architecture, with TWC Phoenix’s assistance, identified that the original slope of the granite roof and cornice stones was not allowing proper drainage. As a result, rainwater was collecting within the walls and masonry system, rapidly accelerating deterioration.
To fix the issue, the TWC Phoenix team carefully cut along the underside of all the stones, creating a drip edge that directs rainwater away from the building rather down its walls.
Additional modifications were made to the tops of the cornice stones to improve drainage on the roof and surrounding masonry. These improvements significantly reduced water pooling and limited future moisture from seeping into the building’s alcoves and wall assemblies. TWC Phoenix also repointed the gateway using a modified mortar designed to provide enhanced adhesion while remaining compatible with the historic masonry that was already in place.
To further protect the structure, a breathable water repellent was applied, helping to prevent rainwater intrusion while still allowing any trapped moisture to evaporate naturally from the masonry joints. This comprehensive approach addressed both the visual deterioration and the underlying conditions that were causing it in the first place, making for a longer-lasting restoration.
Preserving More of Mount Auburn’s History
Beyond the Story Chapel and Gateway Welcome Center, TWC Phoenix has partnered with Mt. Auburn Cemetery on several other specialized waterproofing and masonry jobs. The team performed waterproofing work on the historic Gardner Family Tomb, the resting place of several members of the Garnder family, including relatives of famed art collector Isabella Stewart Gardner.
TWC Phoenix also provides annual cleaning services for monuments, like the Mary Baker Eddy memorial, helping upkeep the elegant aesthetic of one of the cemetery’s most recognizable monuments.
At the historic Bigelow Chapel, the team cut and repointed all of the chapel’s spires, addressing deterioration while maintaining the original architectural integrity of the structure.
Together, these projects showcase our team’s expertise in historic preservation and restoration; another reason why TWC Phoenix is a trusted waterproofing and masonry partner to some of New England’s most treasured landmarks.
Why Historic Masonry Restoration Requires Specialized Expertise
Historic restoration projects require a certain level of expertise that extends far beyond conventional masonry repair. Every building brings its own unique challenges, and more importantly, its own history – and both need to be preserved in the result. From sourcing historically accurate materials to meeting modern building codes, TWC Phoenix brings decades of experience restoring historic masonry systems throughout the Northeast.
Our full-scope team manages projects ranging from façade restoration and masonry repair to structural stabilization and waterproofing solutions. TWC Phoenix collaborates closely with architects, engineers, and historical commissions to guarantee every project meets today’s performance standards while preserving the building’s original design intent.
No matter the project, TWC Phoenix approaches every historic restoration with the same goal: protect the past while strengthening the future.
Preserving New England’s Historic Architectural Legacy
The restoration work at Mount Auburn Cemetery demonstrates how careful preservation can protect the architectural landmarks that have defined New England for centuries.
From the meticulous restoration of the Story Chapel to the comprehensive masonry and waterproofing improvements at the Gateway Welcome Center, TWC Phoenix continues to deliver historic preservation solutions that honor tradition with modern solutions.
If you are planning a historic masonry restoration project and want to preserve the integrity, beauty, and longevity of your building, contact TWC Phoenix today.
Our team has the experience, craftsmanship, and restoration expertise needed to keep your property, and your story, standing strong for generations to come.