Restoring a Landmark: The Dome Restoration at OLV National Shrine & Basilica

The OLV National Shrine & Basilica in Lackawanna, NY, stands as one of the most cherished landmarks in Western New York. With its towering spires, stunning architecture, and rich history, this Basilica is a symbol of faith, heritage, and craftsmanship. Recently, a major restoration project has been underway to preserve one of its most iconic features: the copper domes that sit proudly atop the structure.

The Importance of OLV Basilica

OLV Basilica is more than just an architectural masterpiece; it holds deep spiritual, cultural, and historical significance for the region. Completed in 1926, the Basilica was the vision of Father Nelson Baker, a beloved priest known for his charitable works. It became the centerpiece of the Our Lady of Victory Institutions, which provided care for orphans, the poor, and the sick. Today, it serves as both a place of worship and a national shrine, attracting visitors from around the world.

The Basilica’s magnificent design, inspired by European cathedrals, is a reflection of Father Baker’s devotion and ambition to create something truly awe-inspiring. The stunning copper domes, marble columns, stained-glass windows, and ornate mosaics have earned OLV Basilica a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Basilica remains a spiritual haven for the community. It’s a place where generations have come to seek solace, celebrate their faith, and connect with the legacy of Father Baker, who is now a candidate for sainthood. The ongoing restoration efforts ensure that this sacred space continues to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations.

The Restoration Project

Restoring the domes of the OLV Basilica has been a complex yet rewarding challenge for everyone involved. These domes, which have weathered years of exposure to the elements, are being restored to their former glory. This effort not only aims to preserve the beauty of the Basilica but also to ensure its structural integrity for future generations.

The team at OLV partnered with experts in restoration and fabrication to handle the delicate task of reviving the domes. Among the many collaborators, we’re proud to have contributed to this monumental project by custom-building specialized equipment to aid in the restoration process.

Our Contribution: Custom-Built Ladder and Ring Structure

One of the critical challenges in restoring the domes was creating safe, durable, and efficient access to these high-reaching structures. That’s where our team came in. We custom-designed and built the aluminum ladder and rings you can see in the restoration photos. These pieces were specifically engineered to fit curvature of the dome structure, providing a secure and reliable platform for the workers.

The ladder, made of lightweight yet highly durable aluminum, is equipped with hooks, allowing it to be easily placed around the dome on the custom-built ring structure. This design enables workers to safely navigate the curved surfaces of the dome while ensuring the restoration process can proceed smoothly.

A Shared Commitment to Preservation

Restoration projects like this one highlight the importance of preserving our local landmarks. We’re honored to have been a part of this effort to restore a piece of Buffalo’s architectural heritage. The OLV Basilica has long been a beacon of history, faith, and craftsmanship in our region, and we’re thrilled to see the domes shine as brightly as they did when they were first constructed.

As the restoration continues, we’re excited to witness the finished product—a fully restored OLV Basilica dome that will stand proudly for many more years to come.

Note: All photos belong to The Buffalo News