PHOTOS: Cordage Smokestack In Plymouth Comes Down

PLYMOUTH, MA — The time has come for the 123-year-old smokestack against the coastline in the back of Plymouth's Cordage Park to come down.

Citing safety concerns and a high risk of collapse, the Plymouth Building and Fire Departments have deemed the smokestack to be a public hazard, and the property was required to take the "monument" down.

The demolition of the smokestack started May 9, and by Thursday, May 19, around 11 a.m., the cap came down with the force of a wrecking ball.

"The findings and extent of the deterioration was completely unexpected," said Cordage Commerce Center Property Manager Kristin Ligouri. "We are dismayed to see the removal of such a familiar and beloved structure within our property."

Attempts were made to establish a bylaw in order to preserve it, but due to the advanced levels of decay, the Massachusetts Historical Commission had no choice but to support its demolition.

The Town of Plymouth says they plan to memorialize the smokestack in some way, and exact plans are being evaluated by the Plymouth Community Preservation Committee and Cordage Commerce Center to be revealed at a later date.