When wrecking balls were first introduced

Since its inception back in the 1930s, the wrecking ball has become - and remained - the defining image of the demolition industry.

Seldom used for the projects of today, this archive footage from 1938 depicts an early type of wrecking ball - made of stone construction, being used to demolish the St. Louis Post Office, in St. Louis, Missouri, US, to make way for housing. 

Story Copyright: Thomson Reuters
Copyright: GAUMONT BRITISH NEWSREEL (REUTERS)

How demolition used to be done...in 1948 ARCHIVE FOOTAGE: Demo crews collapse chimney stacks
MAGAZINE
NEWSLETTER
Delivered directly to your inbox, Demolition & Recycling International Newsletter features the pick of the breaking news stories, product launches, show reports and more from KHL's world-class editorial team.
Latest News
Theme announced for Fachtagung Abbruch 2024
Expectations for German event are high, says organiser 
Kobelco Europe celebrates and anounces HQ move
Guests at 10-year event hear of HQ move in the Netherlands
Biffa acquires Scottish demolition company
UK waste management company acquires Hamilton Waste and Recycling
CONNECT WITH THE TEAM
Leila Steed Editor, Demolition & Recycling International Tel: +44(0) 1892 786 261 E-mail: leila.steed@khl.com
Simon Kelly Sales Manager Tel: +44 (0) 1892 786 223 E-mail: simon.kelly@khl.com
CONNECT WITH SOCIAL MEDIA