Finally, before the columns could be restored the dimensions of the ca. 1797 square-shaped bases, or plinths, also needed to be rediscovered.  Fortunately, it was found that the masons had left a small portion of the original plinth intact and so the dimensions of the ca. 1797 plinths had been preserved.  Using this surviving evidence the masons could reconstruct the plinths back to their exact ca. 1797 dimensions.