Historical Restoration of the Old Monastery
By Angela McConkey
During the fall of 2022, restorative work was undertaken to beautify and preserve the original, historic monastery. Under the strict tutelage and supervision of Bill Hoxie, Carmel of Port Tobacco’s dedicated master carpenter and groundskeeper, volunteers were set to work. Cobwebs were cleared from every crack and crevice; soot and dirt from the old fireplace vacuumed out; the windows wiped cleaned; and the wood walls and furniture were given a good polish. Damaged floorboards were replaced and stained. The old floors, original to the renovated monastery, were first scrubbed clean by hand, then mopped, before a mixture of linseed oil and wax was applied to freshen and preserve. After a couple of days of letting the polish application dry, the floors were buffed to a renewed and healthy shine. New signage was added to the Blessed Saints’ pictures to identify and memorialize their importance to Mount Carmel for visiting pilgrims.
The Winter 2022 Port Tobacco Tidings Newsletter described the work that was completed: “Eighty-seven years has taken its toll. This enforced lull in our plans seemed like a good opportunity to give it some tender, loving care. With the help of some friends, the floor has been repaired where needed and brought to a beautiful shine. Signage has been improved, with more work to follow.”
Photos by Angela McConkey | Rows 1 & 2: Pictures of restoration work done in the Old Monastery | Row 3: The Mathews Family Tree
The Mathews Family Tree
