Discussion: The Miracle Of The Loretto Chapel Staircase Explained

[Ron247]

Heard about this in the 80s while in college. Never saw a picture, nor read an article about it until today. Out of curiosity, I looked on the internet for it.

The 2nd website aligns with the story I heard 45 years ago except the guy showed up on a bicycle and not a donkey. The catch phrase from my source of information who was putting down engineers in general was "Several structural engineers investigated this and said it was impossible it was standing."

When I heard the tale in college, I said it sounded like someone built 2 wooden slinkies and attached them to the ceiling based on a totally verbal description, so I was not that amazed.

https://www.grunge.com/770563/the-miracle-of-the-loretto-chapel-staircase-explained/

https://tincanpilgrim.com/2020/03/08/the-impossible-stairway-a-gift-from-saint-joseph/

Anyone ever lay eyes on this or know any more about it?

 

[SWComposites]

Yes I have seen it in person. Quite impressive and interesting. Don't really have any detailed insight into the construction.

 

[Ron247]

The story I heard, they said the choir said it felt like you were walking on clouds as you traveled the stairs. I see why it does.

They also said the guy steamed the wood as he curved it. Someone saw at least a little of what he did if they are correct. Of course, wood is hard to bend/curve if not steamed.

 

[Brian Malone]

Fascinating story and beautiful staircase. The Tin Can Pilgrim story states the hand rail was added 10 years after original construction - climbing those without the railing appears to be an act of faith.

 

[Ron247]

The Tin Can Pilgrim story states the hand rail was added 10 years after original construction - climbing those without the railing appears to be an act of faith.

Did not notice that when I read the 2nd article. Your right, that is gutsy.
I know why he did not want the sisters watching him work. He did not want to get rapped on the knuckles with a ruler every time he made a mistake or took a break.