Wax On, Wax Off
Approximately 15 minutes ago, according to my clock and as Philly Will Do initially brought to my attention, the waxing of the Liberty Bell commenced.
On Tuesday, May 23, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, Independence National Historical Park preservation technicians and curators will perform the semi-annual protective waxing of the Liberty Bell. The Liberty Bell, cast in 1752 for the original tower of Independence Hall, consists primarily of copper and tin. The Bell’s pitted surface traps airborne pollutants which can further erode the soft metal. The application of a neutral wax to the Bell’s surface protects it from dirt.
I understand the tiniest bit about conservation techniques, and a fair bit more about the necessity of appropriate conservation activities for historical artifacts. Nonetheless, I’m with PWD in finding this a wee bit giggle-worthy. Although I think PWD’s title incorrectly interprets the “semi-” prefix: doesn’t that mean this waxing happens twice each year, rather than once every alternate year?
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Semi- and bi- always confuse me. I can never get them right. (And, since you’re the first person to note that I got it wrong, apparently I’m not alone.)
But, I’m 99.99 percent sure you’re right; I actually just thought “Oh, like a semi-annual sale at a department store, twice a year!”
DMac: I agree that the bi- vs. semi- thing is confusing. That’s why I raised a question instead of making a correction, because I wasn’t at all sure I had it right. I think I’ll be using that “semi-annual sale” memory-jog for years to come!!
Ooooooooh yeah, wax that bell…real slow