Stafford Slave Settlement Chimney Stabilization
Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia
The Stafford Plantation on Georgia's Cumberland Island was established in the early 19th century by Robert Stafford, Jr. By 1830 Stafford controlled 1,360 acres with 148 slaves, and in 1843 he acquired an additional 4,200 acres. The primary crop was Sea Island cotton. After his death in 1877, Stafford’s heirs sold the property to Thomas and Lucy Carnegie, who ultimately acquired 90% of Cumberland Island. Cumberland Island was designated a national seashore in 1972.
Today all that remains of the Stafford Plantation is a complex of 26 hearth-and-chimney ruins, which are the most visible remnants of the slave quarters. The chimneys are constructed of tabby and fired red clay bricks, with conditions ranging from complete ruin and rubble to fair, standing structures that are deteriorating and unstable. Although there is no written evidence of construction date, the slave quarters were probably built in the 1820s when Stafford began to enlarge his holdings.
The park's past efforts to stabilize the chimneys have had mixed success and no lasting solution. To address long-term needs, the JKOA team provided architectural and engineering services for structural analysis, schematic design, construction documents, and cost estimating for preservation and structural stabilization of the remnant chimneys. A detailed survey was made of all 26 extant chimneys, and laboratory testing was performed on the tabby brick, red clay brick, and mortar to determine original composition and assist in specifying suitable repairs and replacement. The JKOA team developed an appropriate, comprehensive, long-term solution for the chimneys that remain standing and are viable for stabilization and restoration treatment, including removal of intrusive wood bracing structures, compatible masonry repairs, and minimal stainless-steel armatures to structurally stabilize the chimneys.
Project services
Historic preservation
Documentation drawings
Conditions assessment
Materials testing and conservation
Structural engineering
Cost estimating