White Bronze Wonders: Preserving America's Zinc Memorials

Episode 11: In this episode of MBNA Monument Matters, host Mike Johns sits down with Jerry Mascola of Granite City Tool and retired conservator Tom Podnar of McKay Lodge Conservation Laboratory to explore the fascinating history, craftsmanship, and challenges surrounding white bronze—or zinc—memorials. Learn why these 19th-century monuments are considered an example of American ingenuity, how to identify them in cemeteries, and what not to do when restoring them. Whether you're a monument builder, preservationist, or history enthusiast, this episode offers expert insight into a rare and often misunderstood memorial material—and emphasizes the importance of knowing when to call in a pro. Chapters (00:00:08) - Monument Matters: Episode 1(00:02:29) - Zinc Monuments: Their History(00:06:37) - Why Do Zinc Monuments Look Blue?(00:14:06) - Zinc Monument Conservator(00:20:11) - Importance of monument repair(00:25:44) - Restoration of Old Bridges(00:29:45) - How to Fix a Bronze Monument(00:33:39) - How to Fix a Monument That's leaning backwards(00:38:23) - Zink Monuments: Do They Need Restoration?