Tensegrity Mast

No. 37 · 1975 · Historical structure

The Tensegrity Mast, constructed in 1975 by students under Jack Peterson’s guidance, was a striking structural experiment placed prominently on a knoll in the canyon. The mast’s history is marked by cycles of vandalism and repair, with wires cut and turnbuckles loosened during its early years, causing repeated collapses. Photographs show it lying horizontal before briefly being reassembled upright in 1978. By 1982, plans were made to rewire and move it back to its original location, but it was never fully restored. While the mast itself is long gone, its original foundations remain visible near the site of the Tensegrity structure, serving as a tangible reminder of its ambitious legacy.

tensegrity mast, student structural experiment, architectural vandalism history, poly royal design, foundation remains structure

Photographs