American carpenter revitalizes Notre Dame Cathedral after devastating fire
- Jackson DuBois worked for three months on the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral after it was damaged by a fire in April 2019.
- The restoration involved skilled craftsmen and cost an estimated $767 million.
- The cathedral is set to reopen to the public on December 8, symbolizing a significant achievement in historical preservation.
In France, a significant restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral has been underway following extensive damage caused by a fire in April 2019. Jackson DuBois, a 49-year-old carpenter from Cooperstown, NY, was part of a dedicated team of skilled craftspeople who worked to restore the iconic structure. Over three months, DuBois specialized in timber framing, utilizing traditional techniques and centuries-old tools to replicate ornate gothic elements of the cathedral. The restoration effort, which cost an estimated $767 million, focused on preserving the historical integrity of the building while completing repairs necessary for its reopening to the public on December 8. DuBois's connection to the work was also personal, stemming from his own French heritage and deep appreciation for historical construction methods. His experience emphasizes the collaborative spirit of international craftsmen who were united by a shared goal to honor the architectural heritage of Notre Dame and ensure its future for generations to come.