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When the
pavers for the inner dial were all placed in position it was
time to survey in the hour lines. Because of the gnomon's
thickness (6 in.) the dial actually has two centres. These
were marked on the front extension of the gnomon with a steel
centre punch. Then, depending upon the hour line being
positioned, Barrie would set his theodolite over the
appropriate centre point. |
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| This is
one of the amazing parts. After the centre line for a rail was
set two chalk lines were snapped on the pavers to accommodate
the top width of the rail. Lance would then cut all these
lines with a gas powered masonry cut-off saw. His accuracy in
cutting these lines was fantastic. You had to be there
watching this man work to truly appreciate his abilities. And
yes, there was lots of dust. |
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After
cutting enough pavers had to be removed so that the rail
could be set in place. As the rail height was greater than the
thickness of the pavers, the base had to be adjusted again
along the length of each rail. |
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| After the
rail base was prepared, the rail was set into position. The
forklift was used to bring the rail to the dial but Joe and
Jamie moved them into position; 405 lb. for the longest one.
They then replaced the pavers along the rail. This technique
worked very well. Instead of having pie pieces filled with
pavers, this method had the pavers carry on from section to
section. The final effect was aesthetically pleasing. |
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Here the
curve is being cut at the north end of the dial. It was
perfect! The curve diameter was just large enough to allow the
saw to follow the line. The curve was drawn using a
combination of surveying and a template. |
