At Thackray Crane Service, every project matters—but some truly hit home.

Recently, Thackray was honored to return to St. Cecilia Church in the Fox Chase neighborhood of Philadelphia to assist with a special and deeply meaningful job: moving the statue of Saint Cecilia, the church’s beloved patroness, back to her original place of prominence above the front entrance.

This wasn’t the first time Thackray Crane had been called in for this very statue. Years ago, the Thackray team helped relocate the figure from its high perch to a safer position along the side of the church, resting on a pillar. The move was part of necessary renovations and repairs to the front façade, and the hope was always to return Saint Cecilia to her original home when the time was right.

Now, with those renovations complete and the structure reinforced by a dedicated masonry team, the church reached out to Thackray once again—this time to bring Saint Cecilia home.

A Family Tradition Comes Full Circle

For most companies, this might be considered a routine lift. But for Thackray Crane, this project was deeply rooted in family, faith, and legacy. The Thackray family has been part of the St. Cecilia Parish community for generations.

In fact, Walter Thackray—the company’s founder—was part of the original construction crew that helped build St. Cecilia Church. His wife, Anna Thackray, was a lifelong member of the parish, known for her unwavering presence at daily Mass, always sitting in the front row. Over the years, countless family members were baptized, confirmed, and married in the church. It wasn’t just their parish—it was part of their family history.

The ties run even deeper within the Thackray team. One of the current crane operators attended St. Cecilia School. Another team member is named after founder Walter Thackray. Another was christened at the church. For many, it felt like coming back to where it all began.

A Careful Lift for a Cherished Figure

Repositioning a large, historic statue is no small task. The statue of Saint Cecilia may appear delicate, but moving her safely required strength, precision, and expertise. Using a 30-ton boom truck, Thackray’s NCCCO-certified crane operators and a certified rigger carefully rigged and lifted the statue, ensuring no stress or damage occurred during the delicate relocation process.

The biggest challenge was not just the weight or size of the statue—but honoring its historical and spiritual significance. Working in close coordination with Bradley Masonry, the team ensured the new anchoring was secure and built to last. Once Saint Cecilia was gently placed and installed, the team took a moment to step back and admire the view—a cherished figure back where she belonged, watching over the parish she’s protected for more than a century.

A Project With Perfect Timing

This wasn’t just about restoration. With St. Cecilia School preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary this coming September, the church was eager to complete the project in time for the centennial celebrations. Bringing Saint Cecilia back to her original position ahead of this milestone felt symbolic—a way of honoring the past, celebrating the present, and looking toward the future.

For the Thackray team, it was more than a job—it was a privilege. To serve the church that served their family, to give back to the community that raised them, and to bring a cherished symbol of faith full circle—this was a moment of pride, joy, and reverence.

At Thackray Crane Service, we’re proud of the work we do every day—but we’re especially grateful when our work connects with our roots, our families, and our values. Helping return Saint Cecilia to her rightful home was a reminder of why we do what we do—and who we do it for.

Thackray Crane recently completed another significant milestone in the ongoing restoration at Our Mother of Consolation School, located on East Chestnut Hill Avenue in Philadelphia, PA.

This project marked the third phase of a larger initiative aimed at preserving the school’s architectural heritage. For this specific phase, Thackray Crane was entrusted with the delicate task of setting the cupola and cross atop the school building—an operation requiring careful planning, precision, and expert execution.

Equipment & Planning

To execute this lift with maximum efficiency and safety, Thackray Crane utilized the 75-ton Tadano ATF 70G-4, a powerful and versatile all-terrain crane. The machine’s reach and load capacity made it the ideal choice for lifting and positioning these vital architectural elements with the utmost care.

Prior to the lift, a comprehensive pre-job walk was conducted to determine the best crane setup location and ensure that all safety measures were in place. Proper site assessment is a crucial step in projects of this scale, as it ensures structural stability, efficiency, and the safety of both workers and the surrounding area.

Execution of the Lift

Once the setup was confirmed, the next phase involved the delivery of hundredweights—used to balance and stabilize the crane during the lift—and a man-basket, which allowed crew members to work at height safely and securely. The precision lift required steady coordination between the crane operator and the on-site team to successfully hoist and place the cupola and cross onto the school building.

Expert Crew

Handling such an intricate lift demands experience, skill, and teamwork. Thackray Crane’s highly trained crew, led by Operator Walt Quinn and Oiler Celeste Sanchez, played a key role in ensuring a smooth and successful operation. Their expertise in managing complex lifts, combined with their attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols, helped make this project a resounding success.

A Symbol of Preservation

With the cupola and cross now securely in place, Our Mother of Consolation School continues to stand as a beacon of faith and education in the community. Thackray Crane is proud to contribute to projects that not only require technical expertise but also serve to preserve history and architectural beauty.

From small-scale lifts to major structural installations, Thackray Crane delivers excellence with every project. If you require professional crane solutions, trust Thackray Crane for safe, efficient, and expertly executed lifting services.

Thackray Crane recently completed a major upgrade for the Residence Inn by Marriott, located at East Penn Square in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. The project required the removal and replacement of three large rooftop HVAC chillers—an essential upgrade to help the hotel maintain optimal comfort for its guests year-round.

Given the complexity of the the lift, Thackray Crane deployed one of its Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1 all terrain cranes, a 500-ton powerhouse built to handle heavy and intricate lifts in challenging locations. The crane’s flexibility and capacity were critical to safely navigating tight city streets and maneuvering the equipment into position more than a dozen stories above busy sidewalks and traffic.

A Full-Service Approach

As a true turnkey provider, Thackray Crane went far beyond simply providing crane services. From the earliest planning stages through to project completion, the Thackray team handled every aspect of the operation.

Before the lift, Thackray performed an in-depth site assessment, identifying unique challenges posed by the downtown location and rooftop access. Leveraging their deep expertise in urban lifting projects, the team developed a detailed lift plan to ensure maximum safety and efficiency.

To further streamline the project, Thackray provided secure warehouse storage for the three new chillers, holding the units until the installation date. This not only helped reduce clutter and congestion at the job site but also provided an added layer of logistical control to keep the project moving smoothly.

Safety, Logistics, and Coordination

Operating in a dense area like East Penn Square requires meticulous coordination. Thackray took the lead in managing all necessary safety and traffic control measures, securing police protection, and arranging for full street closures and detours. These efforts minimized disruption to the public and surrounding businesses while creating a safe work zone for crews and equipment.

End-to-End Transportation Services

In addition to the lifting operation itself, Thackray Crane provided full transport services for both the outgoing and incoming chillers. Thackray’s in-house trucking fleet hauled the used chillers from the site for removal and transported the new chillers directly from the company’s warehouse to the job site—eliminating the need for third-party carriers and giving the client a single point of contact for the entire project. 

The Thackray Team Advantage

A project of this scale and complexity demands a seasoned and highly coordinated team. Thackray Crane’s experienced crew of CCO-certified crane operators, oilers, truck drivers, and logistics professionals worked seamlessly to ensure the lift was executed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

By combining heavy lifting expertise with warehousing, transport, and Thackray’s experienced project management, Thackray Crane once again demonstrated its ability to deliver total lifting solutions in even the most demanding environments.

At Thackray Crane, we take pride in serving as a trusted partner for complex projects in Philadelphia and beyond—providing the people, equipment, and expertise to get the job done right.

At Thackray Crane, we take great pride in recognizing the hardworking women who help shape the construction industry. Women in Construction (WIC) Week 2025 is an opportunity to highlight the dedication, skill, and resilience of women in our field. This year, we’re shining the spotlight on one of our own: Celeste Sanchez.

A Passion for Cranes from an Early Age

For Celeste, cranes aren’t just a career—they’re a lifelong passion. Growing up, she watched her father, Juan Sanchez, operate cranes, fascinated by the amazing precision and raw power of the machines. Inspired by his work, Celeste knew early on that she wanted to follow in his footsteps.

Building Her Career

Now a 4th-year apprentice, oiler, and operator at Thackray Crane, Celeste is proving that hard work and determination can break barriers. She has earned multiple certifications, including:

• CCO Small Hydraulic
• CCO Large Hydraulic
• CDL A License

These credentials showcase her expertise and commitment to mastering the craft.

A Leader in the Industry

At just 21, Celeste joined Local 542 Operating Engineers, taking an active role in supporting the industry. Beyond her work on the job site, she dedicates her time to the union, participating in parades, fundraisers, and initiatives like Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MYWIC)—helping to pave the way for future generations of women in the field.

Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Others

Celeste’s journey reflects the growing presence of women in construction and the vital role they play in shaping the industry’s future. Her story is an inspiration to anyone considering a career in the trades—proving that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.

This Women in Construction Week, we celebrate Celeste and all the incredible women making an impact at Thackray Crane and beyond.

Interested in a Career in Construction?

Thackray Crane is always looking for skilled, dedicated individuals to join our team. If you’re inspired by Celeste’s story and want to explore opportunities in the industry, contact Thackray Crane today!
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At Thackray Crane, we take pride in tackling challenging projects that require precision, power, and expertise. Recently, our team was called upon to assist SAP America at their headquarters in Newtown Square, PA, with the removal and replacement of rooftop air handling units. This complex operation required careful planning and the use of heavy-lifting equipment to ensure a seamless execution.

To complete the job, we deployed two Liebherr LTM1400-7.1 cranes, each boasting an impressive 500-ton lifting capacity. These powerhouse machines provided the strength and stability needed to safely remove the aging air handling units and install the new models efficiently. Given the rooftop location and weight of the units, precise coordination was essential to avoid any disruptions to SAP’s operations.

In addition to crane services, Thackray also supplied trucking and transport services to haul the new units in and the old units out, ensuring a streamlined process from start to finish. Our ability to manage both lifting and transportation made the operation even more efficient, reducing downtime and logistical challenges for SAP America.

Our experienced team worked diligently to orchestrate each lift with precision, ensuring the project stayed on schedule and met the highest safety standards. From detailed site planning to expert rigging and lifting, every aspect of the operation was meticulously executed to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.

Projects like this highlight Thackray Crane’s commitment to providing top-tier crane solutions for even the most demanding jobs. Whether lifting HVAC units, structural steel, or heavy machinery, we have the equipment, expertise, and dedication to get the job done right.

Need a trusted partner for your next heavy lift? Contact Thackray Crane today and let’s get to work!

At Thackray Crane Rental, safety is not just a priority—it’s a commitment we uphold in every lift, every project, and every partnership. We were proud to put this commitment into action at the Mid Atlantic Safety Council’s monthly meeting, held this January in Bala Cynwyd, PA. Representing Thackray Crane, our very own Safety Director, Mark W. Thackray, delivered a comprehensive and engaging presentation titled “Talking Crane Safety.”

A Deep Dive into Crane Safety
Mark’s presentation covered a wide range of vital topics related to crane safety. From planning and best practices to techniques and the sometimes-overlooked details that can make or break a lift, Mark brought years of experience straight to the audience. One of the main themes was understanding not just what can go wrong with a crane but, more importantly, how to prevent accidents before they happen.

A standout portion of the presentation involved teaching attendees what to look for during crane operations. The focus wasn’t limited to theory—large sections of the session involved practical examples and live demonstrations that illustrated effective safety measures.

The Power of the Pre-Lift Huddle
Mark took the knowledge-sharing a step further by running a live drill on-site. Attendees witnessed firsthand the execution of a pre-lift huddle, an essential step before any lift operation. This huddle brought attention to how clear communication, teamwork, and preparedness can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and successful job.

A key takeaway from the live demonstration was the importance of understanding the “center of gravity.” For those unfamiliar, the center of gravity is the point where an object’s weight is evenly balanced in all directions. When lifting heavy loads, it’s crucial to ensure the crane hook is positioned directly over this point. Misjudging the center of gravity can lead to instability, tilting, or even catastrophic failure.

By integrating this knowledge, combined with robust planning and a safety-first mindset, operators and crews can significantly reduce risks and lift with confidence every time.

Partnering for Safer Worksites
The Mid Atlantic Construction Safety Council has long been a leader in advancing safe practices within the construction industry. Their monthly meetings serve as a resourceful platform for like-minded safety professionals to exchange knowledge, establish standardized safety approaches, and foster a culture of awareness. The January meeting was no exception, with an attentive and engaged audience eager to strengthen their expertise in crane safety.

Thackray Crane Has You Covered
At Thackray Crane Rental, we’re more than just a crane company. We’re a team of seasoned professionals dedicated to delivering success for your projects. Whether you need a crane rental, a skilled and certified crane operator, or a reliable partner to handle job logistics, including planning, trucking, and hauling, Thackray Crane is your go-to provider.

Our decades of experience and commitment to safety ensure that your projects are completed efficiently and with the highest regard for safety. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help lift your operations to the next level—safely and reliably.

When it comes to tackling challenging infrastructure projects, Thackray Crane Rental sets the standard for expertise and precision. Recently, the Thackray Crane team showcased their capabilities in West Grove, Pennsylvania, executing a critical highway repair job on Route 1 at Pusey Mill Road. The project involved the removal of damaged bridge beams caused by a truck collision, and Thackray orchestrated the entire operation with finesse.

“The Bears” in Action

For this demanding task, Thackray brought in their heavy hitters—two Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1 500-ton cranes. These cranes are engineering marvels, capable of delivering the extraordinary lifting power required for massive infrastructure projects.

The cranes were instrumental in the safe and efficient removal of the bridge girders, a process that required exceptional planning and precision. With their advanced technology and Thackray’s skilled operators at the helm, these machines performed flawlessly, ensuring the structural components were handled with care and removed safely.

Comprehensive Service from Start to Finish

This wasn’t just about cranes—it was about delivering a seamless solution. Thackray’s involvement went far beyond the lifting work itself. Their team oversaw every critical aspect of the project, including logistics, planning, and obtaining the required permits. Coordinating such a complex operation demands expertise and attention to detail, and Thackray demonstrated their industry-leading capabilities every step of the way.

Managing the transport of crane attachments and counterweights is no small feat either, given their sheer size and weight. Thackray provided the trucking and transportation of all necessary components, ensuring the equipment was ready and in position to complete the job efficiently. This comprehensive all-in-one approach allowed Thackray to deliver the repair and move forward without delays, minimizing disruptions for the local community and traffic on Route 1.

Expertise Meets Precision

Perhaps the most impressive element of this project was the expertise of Thackray’s operators. Handling cranes of this magnitude is no straightforward task—it requires experience, skill, and a deep understanding of the equipment’s capabilities. Thackray’s certified team delivered on all fronts, ensuring the highest levels of safety and efficiency throughout the project.

By combining their cutting-edge machinery with industry-leading expertise, Thackray delivered an effective and reliable solution. Their proactive collaboration with project stakeholders ensured the work was completed successfully and on time.

Delivering Excellence

From the meticulous planning stages to the final removal of the bridge beams, Thackray Crane epitomized precision, power, and unparalleled service. Their ability to bring together advanced equipment, skilled operators, and logistical expertise is what sets them apart in the crane rental industry.

The successful completion of this job in West Grove, PA, is another testament to Thackray’s reputation as a trusted partner for high-stakes infrastructure projects. When safety, efficiency, and expertise matter most, Thackray Crane delivers.

If you’re planning a project where precision and power are essential, Thackray Crane Rental is ready to partner with you. Contact us to learn more about our full-service crane solutions and how we can help ensure your project’s success!

The holiday season was made even brighter by the 25th Annual XTU Toy Truck Parade, which turned out to be an unforgettable celebration of community, generosity, and festivity.

Thackray Crane was honored to partner with 92.5 XTU for this inspiring event and, as always, the incredible spirit of giving from our community made it a resounding success.

Leading the Way with Holiday Spirit

The parade kicked off in style, led by Mark W. Thackray, our dedicated Safety Director, Tyler DiNunzio, a talented Thackray Crane mechanic (and Mark’s right-hand elf throughout the whole event), and John Mongon from Dispatch. Together, they drove a Thackray Crane Boom Truck decked out in holiday flair, carrying a blow-up Santa Claus, mound of toys and heartfelt holiday wishes. This moment set the perfect tone for the parade—one of unity, hope, and boundless joy.

A Mountain of Generosity

Thanks to the overwhelming support of our community, a literal mountain of toy donations was gathered for the Boys and Girls Club of Camden County. The pile of gifts represents joy and hope for a child. These donations will undoubtedly bring smiles and brighten the holidays for so many local children who need it most.

This act of giving goes beyond the material gifts; it’s a testament to the deep kindness and commitment of everyone involved in creating positive change for our community.

A Festive Atmosphere

The day was not just about giving but also about celebrating the power of community in a festive, uplifting atmosphere. Country music star Corey Kent brought high energy and holiday magic with his live performance, serving as the Grand Marshal of the parade. He added an extra layer of excitement to an already incredible day.

Adding to the fun, 92.5 XTU’s beloved radio personalities—Andie Summers, Jeff Kurkjian, and Razz On The Radio—joined the festivities and judged the best-decorated vehicles. From Big Rig Trucks to Personal and Commercial Vehicles, the creativity and effort on display were truly inspiring. Each vehicle showcased the holiday cheer and the power of individuals coming together, united by the simple desire to make a difference.

Celebrating Community Connections

At its heart, the event was proof of what we can achieve when we come together for a shared purpose. Whether it was families decorating their cars, volunteers sorting toys, or countless people cheering from the sidelines, the parade was a shining example of the strength of community bonds.

The Boys and Girls Club of Camden County, which serves many children and families year-round, was the main benefactor of this incredible outpouring of goodwill. With each toy donated, a little more happiness was added to the holidays for children who deserve to know the joy and magic of the season.

Thank You for Making It Possible!

From everyone at Thackray Crane, thank you to all who participated, donated, or simply attended the event to share in the holiday spirit. Whether you were part of the leadership that made it all happen, like Mark W. Thackray and John Mongon, or showed up with toys and cheer, your efforts mattered. Together, we proved once again the immense power of generosity and a shared commitment to lifting up our neighbors.

Here’s to the joy created, the lives impacted, and the community strengthened. We’re already looking forward to next year’s Toy Truck Parade—because when we come together, we can make the season a little brighter for everyone.

Cheers to a successful 25th Annual XTU Toy Truck Parade!

The holiday season is here, and what better way to celebrate than by giving back to those who need it most? Thackray Crane is proud to announce our partnership with 92.5 XTU for the 25th Annual XTU Toy Truck Parade!

Together, we’re building a mountain of toys for children and supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Camden County. Join us for a day full of community, kindness, and the spirit of giving.

Save the Date

This incredible event takes place on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at Cooper River Park, located at 5300 North Park Drive in Pennsauken, New Jersey. This isn’t just a parade—it’s a chance for our entire community to come together and make a difference in the lives of local children.

What to Expect

Decorate your vehicle, load it up with new, unwrapped toys, and head to Cooper River Park to join the fun. The parade will travel through Collingswood, NJ, on its way to the Scottish Rite Auditorium, where toy donations will be collected around 10:45 am.

There’s something magical about watching a pile of gifts grow bigger and bigger, knowing each one will bring joy to a child this holiday season. Your generous donations will be delivered to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Camden County, helping make countless kids’ holidays a little brighter.

Special Performances

This year’s parade features an exciting performance by country music star Corey Kent, who will also serve as the Grand Marshal! Corey’s high-energy set will add an extra dose of fun to the event, so don’t miss it.

But that’s not all—92.5 XTU radio personalities Andie Summers, Jeff Kurkjian, and Razz On The Radio will be joining in the festivities, judging the best-decorated vehicles across categories like Big Rig Trucks, Emergency Trucks, Personal Vehicles, and Commercial Trucks. The creativity and holiday cheer on display are sure to make this event even more special!

Why It Matters

At Thackray Crane, we’re deeply committed to supporting our community. Partnering with 92.5 XTU for this event allows us to give back in a way that directly impacts the lives of children and families in need. Giving is about more than presents—it’s about creating smiles, spreading joy, and lifting each other up.

Every toy you donate represents a piece of hope and happiness for a child. Together, our community can make a big difference and ensure the Boys & Girls Clubs of Camden County can bring smiles to as many kids as possible.

Join Us!

We invite you to be part of this truly heartwarming event. Whether you’re decorating a vehicle, donating toys, or just coming along to enjoy the parade, your participation means the world.

Grab your family, rally your friends, and show your holiday spirit on December 14. Together, we can help make this holiday season unforgettable for children in our community.

A Message from All of Us

From all of us at Thackray Crane, thank you for your generosity and kindness. We’re excited to work with 92.5 XTU again and can’t wait to celebrate this amazing day with you. See you at the 25th Annual XTU Toy Truck Parade—together, we’ll help lift our community, one toy at a time.

Thackray Crane has long been a pillar of support for the Fallen Hero Wreath Program, a touching initiative dedicated to honoring law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. This year, the program celebrated its 10th anniversary, a milestone marked by the heartfelt acceptance of an award by Eddie Cullen, representing Thackray Crane, for their unwavering commitment.

The Fallen Hero Wreath Program, inspired by the family of Philadelphia Police Officer John Pawlowski, who was tragically killed in the line of duty in 2009, began as a small, heartfelt tribute. The program has since blossomed into a national movement, laying wreaths at the gravesites of fallen officers across the United States during the winter holiday season. From its humble beginnings—starting with just 18 gravesites—the program now boasts chapters in multiple states, ensuring that the legacy of heroes like Officer Pawlowski continues to inspire and honor.

Thackray Crane’s involvement goes beyond mere participation. Over the years, the company has been instrumental in supporting the program, whether by hanging American flags or being present at police events and funerals when called upon. Their dedication is a testament to their respect and gratitude towards those who have served and protected their communities.

This year, the Fallen Hero Wreath Program introduced an annual gala, an event orchestrated by Michelle Pawlowski and Shannon Sperduto. The gala was a heartfelt gathering aimed at expressing appreciation to the program’s supporters, with Thackray Crane being prominently acknowledged. The event was not only a celebration of the program’s achievements but also a chance to strengthen the community that continues to uphold the memory of fallen officers.

Eddie Cullen stood proudly at this gala, accepting the award on behalf of Thackray Crane, reflecting the company’s deep-rooted values and ongoing dedication to the cause. It was a moment that underscored the spirit of collaboration and remembrance that lies at the heart of the Fallen Hero Wreath Program.

As the program continues to grow, spreading its message of honor and remembrance, supporters like Thackray Crane are essential to its success. Their commitment ensures that the memory of fallen law enforcement officers is preserved, their sacrifices never forgotten, and their legacy an enduring source of inspiration for future generations.