Archaeological Survey of India to use original building materials
Scaffolding erected at Last House. (Photo:DC)
Chennai: It has the semblance of a spooky house that could crumble down anytime. Except for a huge hall, much of this 18th century colonial structure - known as Last House - is in ruins. The good news is that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), protecting the building, claims it is possible to resurrect it brick by brick - without breaching the original design.
The last time Last House was occupied was by the Indian Army after Independence. After portions of the building started collapsing, the Army had to withdraw.
Nevertheless, another segment is still being used as the Nursing Sister's house on the north side and also as residence of the staff and nuns of St Mary’s church. Ironically, the Last House is on Snob’s Alley - the name given to it as senior officers of the British regiments led luxurious lives there.
Originally, the alley was known as St Thomas Street within the sprawling premises of Fort St George, where the state secretariat is also situated. The Last House is among the earliest residential houses built inside the historic fort. There is a beautiful carved staircase inside the house.
“We got encouraging results that the entire structure could be restored. The soil and structural stability tests conducted by IIT-Madras has indicated that the foundation is strong. So, we have taken up scaffolding to begin the work,” says Ms G. Maheshwari, superintending archaeologist, ASI, Chennai circle.
Though it might take a long time to make the structure get back its original sheen, the ASI is determined to restore this building which is among the 11 structures within Fort St George that are protected by ASI. Visitors are not allowed in the house, which measures 4,620 sq ft.The conservation plans include using materials that were originally employed for the construction of the structure viz. lime mortar. Wellesley House, Chaplain’s House and Big Warehouse situated near Last House are in ruins.
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