From Cape Girardeau to Hannibal

April, graduate student, tells us about her internship in Hannibal, Missouri.

“I worked with Bob Yapp, owner of Preservation Resources, Inc., and the Belvedere School for Historic Preservation in Hannibal, Missouri. I worked as part of his crew in various restoration projects on a two-story brick home built circa 1850.  I learned various tips and techniques in the restoration of historic materials.  The internship gave me the opportunity to practice various techniques like re-pointing, window restoration and shaping wood epoxy repairs on profiled molding. I also saw the difference between a typical handyman/contractor and a trade artisan that is aware of the unique needs of a historic structure.”

April says she felt prepared for the internship because “The material I have acquired from class work and discussions on the Secretary of Interior’s Standards, character-defining features, architectural styles, and building methods and techniques prepared me to ask informed questions about the project and hold in-depth discussions with Bob about current issues in preservation and restoration.”