Early Innovation In Foundations

In Boston,"while other Back Bay and South End property owners battle rot that has sometimes dangerously weakened the pilings that hold their buildings up, Richardson's masterpiece shows nearly a scratch from 130 years perched on swampland....But Trinity's success is not merely the result of good fortune that ground water never drained away. Instead, Richardson -- an architect known for his intricate Romanesque facades and careful attention to detail -- designed his church with the distant future in mind, building in backup systems that would support the church long after his generation was gone....Knowing they have a solid foundation, church officials can focus on ongoing renovations, intended to beautify the visible parts of the magnificent building, which has been a national historical landmark for more than 30 years."

Thanks to Connie Chung