COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The 30-foot tall flagpole where the Confederate flag flew for 15 years on the front lawn of the South Carolina Capitol has been pulled down.

A crane yanked the pole from the ground about 2:20 p.m. Friday, just over four hours after the flag was removed.

The flagpole didn’t go easily. The crane operator had to firmly pull several times before the pole finally came out of the ground.

The crowd cheered, but it was small. On Friday morning, an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 people had gathered and chanted as the flag was removed.

Crews also were removing the wrought iron fence around the flagpole and the flood lights that were required by law to illuminate the rebel banner.