Condition assessment of the timber frame supporting USS Cairo at Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi

Abstract

The USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, was asked to inspect the timber frame that supports the USS Cairo, a historic civil war ship at the Vicksburg National Military Park in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Because the display of the historic ship and its support structure are located outdoors and are exposed to the elements, there is concern about deterioration from decay of the support structure. This report summarizes the results obtained from the inspection and assessment. It includes a summary of observations, wood species identification, and recommendations. The timber support frame is constructed from preservative-treated Southern Pine lumber and glued-laminated timbers. Visual- and acoustic-based nondestructive evaluation techniques were used in the condition assessment. Although areas of moderate concern were found, no significant deterioration was observed in the frame. However, many recommendations were provided for the future preservation of the support structure.

Citation

Senalik, C. Adam; Ohno, Katie M.; Kirker, Grant T.; Martin, William A.; Winschel, Terrence J.; Spinelli Correa, Laurice M.; Shmulsky, Rubin ; Ross, Robert J.; Shelton, T. Guy. 2025. Condition assessment of the timber frame supporting USS Cairo at Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi. Research Note FPL-RN-0429. Madison, WI: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory. 27 p. https://doi.org/10.2737/FPL-RN-429