2008 Ice Storm & Renewal Project

ICE STORM DEVASTATION AT CATHEDRAL OF THE PINES

Prior to December 2008, the sanctuary at Cathedral of the Pines had about 200 pine trees that stood approximately 80 feet tall. Most of the trees were over a hundred years old and had been weakened by age and harsh weather conditions on the hilltop, and some of the trees were diseased.

When the December 2008 ice storm hit the Monadnock region, the worst ice storm in New Hampshire history, it was devastating to our majestic crop of pines that had graced the sanctuary since its founding 65 years ago. Some of the pines snapped at the top and others toppled over. Those remaining were compromised and had to come down as well. One visitor to the early scene of destruction said that the pines looked as though they had been thrown on the ground like huge handfuls of children’s pick-up sticks. Though some benches were broken by the weight of the pines, the stone monuments were completely untouched.

A week after the ice storm, snow covered the destruction, and it wasn’t until March that the snow melted and the restoration work began. Over a period of five weeks many contractors worked collaboratively to transform the site. The trees and stumps were removed, the property was regraded, new wiring was laid underground for the new sound system, and nine mature fir trees were transplanted from another part of the property. With an exquisite new landscape design in hand, new trees and bushes were planted, a stone retaining wall was built, and sod was laid. The Cathedral opened as planned on May 1, 2009.

The Cathedral had to take out a significant loan to pay for the reconstruction. In order to pay off the loan we welcome all donations, large or small. We thank you for your help.

Contributions can be mailed to:
Cathedral of the Pines
10 Hale Hill Rd
Rindge, New Hampshire 03461
or
Donate on-line