On a quiet April afternoon, I took a drive to Vulcan, Alberta, to witness a moment in history—the demolition of the town’s last remaining grain elevator. These towering landmarks, once an unmistakable symbol of the prairies, are disappearing at an alarming rate, leaving behind blank skylines where giants once stood.

For decades, Vulcan was known for its legendary “Nine in a Line”—a row of towering grain elevators that defined the town’s identity and served as a vital part of its agricultural past. But as time passed, their numbers dwindled, and now, the final one is being torn down. I felt compelled to document this bittersweet occasion, capturing the remnants before they vanish entirely.

Mabel and I hit the road, camera in hand, to preserve this moment. Watching the elevator’s annex be hauled away, I couldn’t help but reflect on what these structures meant to generations before us. They were more than just storage facilities—they were meeting points, economic drivers, and silent sentinels watching over the vast golden fields.

This video is my small way of ensuring that Vulcan’s last grain elevator—like all the others before it—is remembered.

📽 Watch the video here:

These prairie landmarks may be disappearing, but their legacy lives on in the memories of those who knew them. Did you grow up near a grain elevator? Have you watched one fall, or seen one saved? I’d love to hear your thoughts and personal stories in the comments below. Let’s keep this conversation going and preserve the history together!

EDIT 2025.04.27 19:26: This post was originally published with the name “Nanton” instead of “Vulcan”. Whoops!