Concrete hinges have successfully been used in civil engineering constructions since over 100 years. Semi-articulations invented by Augustin Mesnager are classified as incomplete concrete hinges. These hinges are maintenance-free, economically and because of the crossed reinforcing bars in the hinge throat they are able to carry higher shear forces than unreinforced concrete hinges after Eugène Freyssinet. This paper gives an overview of the historical development of this type of hinge from the first idea of Mesnager till the successful use in civil engineering structures and bridges. The known experimental investigations of the bearing and deformation behavior are presented. The main findings are summarized and recommendations for the design and construction of concrete hinges under high shear forces are given.