Ceremonial Ground Breaking Shovel

inspiration

Breaking ground symbolizes the transition from planning into action. It signifies progress and a new beginning. Typically it is only done for an individual project, but in disasters, often more people are affected at the same time, hence the idea of a community shovel. A community shovel brings neighbors together to celebrate not only their progess, but those around them. 

The shovel idea was shared with me by Andrew L of Altadena. Andrew told me on a zoom call they had a neighborhood party and this idea came up in conversation. His neighbor, Paul M bought their community shovel and they plan on engraving the handle as homes start being built. 

Replication - basic steps

1. Buy, be gifted or find a shovel.

2. Find somewhere to store it until the first ground breaking.

3. Have a ground breaking ceremony. 

4. Engrave or write the names and date on the shovel. 

5. Store it until the next ground breaking. 

6. Display in an agreed location or use in an agreed garden. 

Variations

• Ceremonial full sized shovels can be purchased. Chrome, gold, or colorful. 

• Matching hard hats and ceremonial ribbons also are out there. 

• Hand held trowels could be used instead.

• Mini shovels could be engraved and given to each individual as well as a full sized shovel. 

• Shovel inspired jewelry or pins as gifts

• Direct engraving or attach metal plaques (similar to walking or hiking stick medallions. 

• Announce to your neighbors using a requesition letter.