MONUMENT CONDITION ASSESSMENT
MARGARET E. CALDWELL
1924 – 2009
Mount Hope Cemetery · Cape Girardeau, MO
ASSESSED MAY 14, 2024 · JOSH GROGAN
MONUMENT DETAILS
TypeUpright Granite Tablet
MaterialBarre Gray Granite
Approximate Age14 years
FoundationConcrete pad, level
PositionPlumb, stable
CONDITION ASSESSMENT
Biological growth
Heavy — lichen, algae
Needs attentionSoiling
Moderate
GoodInscription legibility
Good — fully readable
GoodCracks
None observed
GoodChips / breaks
Minor edge wear
GoodJoint condition
Tight
GoodSurface erosion
Light
GoodStaining
Iron stain — lower left
Needs attentionBEFORE & AFTER
BEFORE — HEAVY LICHEN
AFTER — ENDURANCE RESTORATION GRAVESTONE & MONUMENT CLEANER + SOFT BRUSH
RECOMMENDED CARE
- • Cleaning cadence: twice per year — Memorial Day and early fall.
- • Iron stain: monitor; localized treatment recommended next visit.
- • Endurance Restoration Gravestone & Monument Cleaner application: continues working post-visit; expect further brightening over 60–90 days.
- • No structural concerns — monument is plumb and stable on its foundation.
TECHNICIAN NOTES
Conditions were dry and 71°F — ideal for soft-brush cleaning. No pressure washing, no bleach. Worked the inscription with a natural-bristle brush and rinsed thoroughly with potable water. Photographed under indirect light to keep tones honest. Mrs. Caldwell's stone will continue to brighten over the next several weeks as the Endurance Restoration Gravestone & Monument Cleaner finishes its work.
— Josh