Justice & Liberty Statues

Perched atop Goldsboro City Hall in Goldsboro, North Carolina, the figures of Liberty and Justice are iconic examples of turn-of-the-century repoussé sculpture. Fabricated from zinc sheet by the W. H. Mullins Company using repoussé and chasing techniques, the statues reflect both the craftsmanship and civic symbolism of the era.

EverGreene was contracted to conduct a comprehensive survey and condition assessment, including archival research, historic documentation, site evaluation, and close examination of the materials and surface condition of the sculptures. Our investigation identified missing and damaged elements, and archival research clarified the statues’ original configuration. Microscopic analysis of paint samples revealed that the sculptures had originally been gilded. The resulting condition assessment report documented existing issues, identified the causes of deterioration, and provided detailed treatment recommendations and cost projections for stabilization and preservation.

EverGreene was subsequently awarded the conservation treatment phase. The sculptures were carefully rigged and removed from the building, then cleaned and stripped of failing coatings and corrosion using controlled waterjetting. Structural supports were repaired or replaced as needed, and missing elements were recreated through clay modeling and traditional repoussé fabrication. Damaged zinc surfaces were repaired throughout. Following treatment, the sculptures were protected with a high-performance primer system and regilded with 23.75-karat German gold. Upon completion, Liberty and Justice were reinstalled in their original locations on top of the restored Goldsboro City Hall.