Garfield Monument

The Garfield Monument, erected in 1884, dignifies a prominent knoll at the east entrance of Golden Gate Park adjacent to the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers. The base of the structure is composed of monolithic granite stones supporting a central polished granite shaft surmounted by a life-size statue of President Garfield.

ARG Conservation Services served as the general contractor for repair of this important historic resource. Because of an inadequate foundation, the base stones had shifted significantly out of their original positions, creating a safety hazard. The scope of work included a seismic strengthening and upgrade, consisting of disassembly of the monument base, excavation for a new foundation, installation of a new foundation, and resetting of the stones, without damaging the monument’s historic integrity. The work also included associated masonry work and cleaning.

The prominent location of the monument required that the project be completed quickly and efficiently with minimal disturbance to the immediate surroundings.