An A-frame hoist is moved into position and lifting bands are secured around the bronze panel. Anchoring bolts are removed and the panel is gently lifted away from the monument. A protective cradle for the bronze panel was constructed of wood and lined with foam padding. The cradle will protect the panel as it is loaded onto a truck and transported to a new location for study and restoration. The crane lowers the cradle into position and the bronze panel is secured for lifting and transport.
Workers carefully guide the cradle containing the historic bronze panel away from the monument.
The cradle is loaded onto a flat bed truck and transported to a maintenance shop. Stone conservators inspect the stonework behind the panels for the first time. Water penetration into the monument is a concern. Plans are made for the next phase in the restoration of the Mississippi monument.