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County staff to seek quote for removing courthouse cornerstone to retrieve and possibly display historical artifacts
Summary
Maintenance staff asked commissioners for permission to obtain a quote to remove the courthouse cornerstone while masons are on site for masonry work; commissioners gave consensus to get a cost estimate and asked staff to secure the items for later display if removal proceeds.
Walla Walla County commissioners discussed a maintenance proposal May 12 to remove the courthouse cornerstone while a masonry contractor is on site, with the goal of retrieving historical artifacts inside the cornerstone for possible public display.
Rob, the county’s maintenance facilities director, told the board the cornerstone is about 109 to 110 years old and contains a copper box with artifacts. He said removal would involve grinding out the joint and taking off the granite face, and that the contractor Talisman has a contingency allowance in its contract that might cover the work. Rob also warned one risk: "the potential if it breaks when it comes off and then we might have to replace the granite part of it."
Commissioners liked the historical idea but questioned timing and cost. Commissioner Bertha J. Clayton urged the county to use the opportunity to create a broader historical display and to involve community partners and schools. Commissioners asked staff to get a written quote rather than authorize removal immediately; they gave Rob consensus to pursue a price and said they would revisit formal approval if the cost fit within acceptable bounds.
Background: The courthouse masonry project is underway. Staff said masons are already on site and a removal while they are present could reduce mobilization costs. Commissioners suggested timing the public display to coincide with other local anniversaries or events if cost and logistics permit.
Next steps: Rob will return with a cost quote for the work and the board will consider a formal motion if the estimate fits the commissioners’ spending guardrails.
