If you have driven by the Cathedral recently you've likely wondered what the

scaffolding surrounding the steeple is for, or marveled at the workers who

brave the elements and the dizzying height.  Forty years of Hartford winters

have caused some deterioration of the stone, and these photos give a bird's

eye view of the stone workers' trade.

Thanks to Jim Grant for the fantastic photos, and to the contractor, Joseph Gnazzo & Sons.

Workers reach the catwalk by the scaffolding on the back side of the steeple.

The stainless steel cross is 25 feet tall, and towers 281 feet above the sidewalk.

Here is one of the workers chipping out a section.

The photographer's son and assistant, Justin, inspects the structure prior to the installation

of a permanent rigging system that will facilitate future inspection and repair of the steeple.