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Vapor Disposition Facility (Building 1232B)

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NASA

Jan 27, 2022
Article
The front of building 1232B in 2009, just prior to demolition.
The front of building 1232B in 2009, just prior to demolition.
NASA

Quick Facts

Year Built: 1956 
Historic Eligibility: National Register Eligible  
Year Demolished: 2009  

History

Built in 1956, this facility was originally listed as the Free Piston Compressor Facility. Thomas Elder, one of those involved with the facility at that time, indicated that the purpose was to simulate corona environment. The equipment consisted of a modified 16-inch diameter gun barrel, two pistons, electric heaters, a vacuum pump and a foundation to hold down the devices.  

In the late 1950’s, the NACA Pilotless Aircraft Research Division (PARD), the group responsible for the creation of a remote rocket research flight facility at Wallops Island, Virginia, occupied the building. The building later housed members of the Space Task Group.  

A 2009 pre-demolition look at the main entrance from inside of building 1232B.
A 2009 pre-demolition look at the main entrance from inside of building 1232B.
NASA

When the facility became obsolete in late 1966, an addition and other equipment was added, and the facility became the Vapor Disposition Facility. The building also served as the Glass Blowing Shop and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 2755 Union Building.  

The building was demolished in 2009.  

Related Materials

  • A 1966 hand-written description of the facility 
  • 2009 Floorplan 
A 2008 photograph of the building’s exterior. NASA photo.
A 2008 photograph of the building’s exterior. NASA photo.
NASA
This is a photo of ongoing demolition in December 2009.
A photo of ongoing demolition in December 2009.
NASA
Ongoing demolition in December 2009.
A photo of ongoing demolition in December 2009.
NASA