With two 360 degree turns and no visible means of support the spiral Miraculous Staircase in Santa Fe’s Loretto Chapel remains a mystery- and so it’s carpenter. Knowing that is on our New Mexico itinerary, we decided to create a project that would help the boys understand why this staircase built in 1878 is such a feat of engineering.

Introducing the problem

We need to build some stairs to get from one floor to another in a building- what can we use? After brainstorming, the boys and I gathered materials from around the house: domino tiles, construction paper, cardboard box, pipe cleaners, a Bluey house etc. Possibilities are endless.

Engineering Exploration

In the Loretto Chapel, beyond accessibility to the choir loft, space in the small chapel was the greatest concern. However, during our at-home engineering project, the kids were mostly focused on sturdiness and Bluey’s safety while using them. Some models didn’t even survive the trial stage.

Compare & Contrast

In the end the staircases were lined up and compared to the image of the Loretto Chapel spiral staircase. The cardboard model was the most similar and most sturdy. The kids noticed that it has a central support of the pipe cleaner, and it will be interesting to hear if they make the connection that the Loretto Chapel one does not when we actually see it in person.

Visiting a site of specialized engineering? Think tall building (Empire State Building), long bridge (Golden Gate Bridge), canal (Panama Canal), dam (Hoover Dam), wind mill (Palm Springs Wind Farm), other unique structures (Eiffel Tower). Share the problem that the community faced and invite your kids to attempt to build the structure. What challenges do they notice? Not only will they make a stronger connection when you’re visiting the site, they’ll see how others have overcome challenges in unique ways which builds appreciation and respect for them.

Add your ideas to the comments below!