documenting a post-fire chicago italianate row house staircase during its deconstruction

the walnut wood staircase, consisting of finely turned spindles, multi-faceted octagonal newel post, and oversized handrail, hasn't been altered much since it was constructed in 1871. the steam radiators were added during the late 19th century.

with the use of hand tools, carpenters cut in and around the sub-flooring to anchor the multi-part, octagonal-shaped newel post in place. wood filings are commonly found where the newel was formally positioned once carefully extracted during deconstruction. the combination oak and walnut wood geometric mosaic parquet floor was installed after the staircase was installed.

with the exception of normal wear and tear, the faceted and recessed paneled walnut wood newel post remains in remarkable condition. the upper section of the post is comprised of multiple lathe-turned sections or components held in place by a centrally located steel rod with threaded end and nut concealed by the circular-shaped newel cap finial. the original stained finish has darkened considerably over time. unlike other newels of the periods, this example does not feature burled walnut veneer within the recessed panels.

a smaller turned walnut wood newel post contains a similar round cap anchored against the post with several square nails. the handrail is attached to the cap with a double-sided threaded steel rod.

detail of the landing newel post's cap with finely turned "bullseye" rosette.

the finely turned walnut wood spindles are secured in the reads using square tenon and/or dovetail joints along the bottom and dowel holes (located on the underside of the hand railing) along the top.

smaller and less elaborate turned newel post compromised of solid walnut wood secured between the wall stringer and landing joist.

turned walnut spindles carefully extracted from the mortised ledger board shortly after separated from handrail dowel holes.

one of several delicate fret-sawn appliqués or decorative elements carefully removed from a staircase stringer leading to the second floor. each single-sided element is comprised of white pine. on average, approximately ten finish nails were used to set each piece in place. interestingly, after gently removing a dark stain, i discovered a striking hand-applied faux wood grain finish. i have yet to verify whether its the original treatment used upon installation.

an example of a finely turned and grooved sold walnut spindle with protruding tenon.

detail of staircase spindle after being lightly cleaned.

stair tread showing spindle's exposed dovetailed joint reinforced with a single nail. two spindles were mounted to each tread.

image taken of outline of fret-sawn pine wood applique shortly after it was removed from the riser.