Many of our present architectural traditions are rooted in the practices of earlier civilizations. The history of ceremonial groundbreaking shovels can be traced back to ancient times. The ceremonial groundbreaking shovel is a symbol of the start of construction for a new building or project. It is often used in groundbreaking ceremonies to mark the beginning of a new phase for a company or firm. This architectural ritual had its early start in ancient Rome, where as we all know, superior knowledge of engineering and architecture is evidence even today.
CeremonialSupplies.com, the best one-stop shop on the net for ceremonial groundbreaking shovels, grand opening ribbons, giant ribbon-cutting scissors, customized event carpets, military regalia, and many other corporate event items, is proud to share a brief history of one of our most popular products: the ceremonial groundbreaking shovel. Enjoy!
Traditions and Rituals of Ancient Roman Architects
The ancient Romans had a superb knowledge of architecture and engineering. This is evidenced by the remains of their work into the present era. The Roman aqueducts system, built throughout their empire to bring water from outside sources to cities and towns, is considered a marvel of engineering, and the Basilica cistern, which still functions as a water reservoir, are all examples of constructions from the Roman Empire. It is not surprising that the Romans used the architectural tradition of groundbreaking. This early ritual consisted of using a plow to mark the outline of a building site; the plow was often adorned with ribbons and flowers. The plow was then driven into the ground, signifying the sport where the construction was to begin, and the event was most likely witnessed by important people and nobility from the area.
Groundbreaking in the Middle Ages
In the Middle Ages, a similar ceremony was performed, using a ceremonial spade, or shovel. During this period, and into the Renaissance, the construction of cathedrals and castles flourished prominently, and groundbreakings were carried out. It is easy to imagine a lord, or nobleman taking part in the ritual by outlining the area of construction. This may have been done using a plow as well, but also incorporating a spade, or shovel in the tradition.
Groundbreaking Traditions Arrive in America
In the 19th century, the tradition of using a ceremonial shovel for a groundbreaking was adopted in America. The first major work of architecture in the 19th century was the building of the Brooklyn Bridge. The construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, the first solid structure to enable the crossing of the East River began in 1869 with a groundbreaking ceremony; however, the first known use of a ceremonial shovel was in 1875. In 1875, the governor of Iowa used a groundbreaking shovel, especially for the occasion, to break ground for a new hospital. As the use of ceremonial shovels became more common, they began to be specially made for the occasion. These shovels were often made of silver or gold and were engraved with the details of the event.
In the 20th century, the use of ceremonial shovels became even more elaborate. Shovels were often custom made with ornate handles and blades, and were often decorated with jewels or other precious materials. Some shovels even had special mechanisms that would release confetti or streamers when the shovel was plunged into the ground. Many companies established in the 20th century, display the original groundbreaking shovel today in their own historical section, or in a prominent location of their headquarter building.
In recent years, the use of ceremonial shovels has become even more specialized. At CeremonialSupplies.com we provide shovels to match the theme, color, or purpose of the event. Our shovels are all made from stainless steel, and are offered with D-style handles, or traditional long stem. The shovel spade can be steel polished, chrome polished, or mirror polished and available in a variety of colors. Our most sophisticated groundbreaking shovels are the VIP mirror chrome polish and the golden mirror polished shovels, but you can be sure we carry the perfect shovel for your groundbreaking ceremony. Despite the elaborate designs of modern ceremonial shovels, the basic symbolism remains the same. Shop CeremonialSupplies.com selection of groundbreaking shovels to start your new building project and allow us to create for you a ceremonial item that represents the hard work you’ve put into your building endeavor.
Today, ceremonial shovels are still an important part of groundbreaking ceremonies, serving as a symbol of the start of a new project and the hard work and dedication required to see it through to completion. CeremonialSupplies.com offers a varied selection of groundbreaking shovels at different price ranges that will surely surpass your expectations. Click here for a quote.
