Main Library Topping Out Ceremony -- June 16, 2000

The Topping Out ceremony, which celebrates the last beam being put into place on a building, was held June 16, 2000 for the new Main Library building.

An evergreen tree and an American flag were attached to the top of the building. Following a custom dating to Viking times, the tree symbolizes that the construction site has been safe -- that there have been no injuries. The tree is also a token of good luck for the future occupants of the building.

Those who attended the Topping Out ceremony also observed another tradition, signing the beam with their names before it was lifted into place.

Below are some pictures of the event.

A view of the building
The building before the beam is put in place

Library Board president signs the beam
Library Board President JoAnn Campbell signs the beam before it is put in place.

Presenting the Awards
Van Horn site supervisor Mark Hurley presents steel beams commemorating the event.

Before the beam went up

Getting ready to hoist the beam up

Spectators watch

Ceremony guests watch as the beam is lifted into place

Putting the beam in place

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This Page Last updated: 21 June 2000