This is one of the earliest examples of cast iron used in an ornamental railing application in the United States dating to the 1840s. The metallurgy and inherent physical limitations of cast iron were not fully understood at the time, which meant that the castings were riddled with defects and had suffered from extensive failures over its long life. In addition, several restoration campaigns left the metal in an even more fragile state. A number of unique approaches to treatment had to be devised to circumvent the flaws and impart needed strength to the rail system.