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Parks
Fort Stevens
Fort Stevens was built to close the mouth of the Columbia. Construction started in 1863 as an earthwork at Point Adams, first called the Fort at Point Adams, then renamed in 1865 for Maj. Gen. Isaac I. Stevens, former Washington Territory governor, killed at Chantilly. The job was to keep Confederate raiders and British ships out of the river. The Civil War ended before the guns ever had to prove it.
Fort MaComb
UPDATE: I recently stopped by Fort Macomb to check for any changes. To my surprise, the gate was open, and as I approached, I found the fort’s door ajar. I ventured only through the initial tunnel, snapping a few photos there and a couple in the courtyard. From what I could see, the place looks much the same as my last visit—still weathered and untouched by any noticeable updates.
Dreams Deferred
Stumbling upon Castleberry, Alabama's baseball park was like finding a modern ghost town. This place, meant to be a vibrant community hub with fields, playgrounds, and more, now stands eerily silent and half-finished. The project fell victim to financial mismanagement and legal troubles, leaving behind a stark reminder of what could have been in the heart of Alabama.
Red Bluff
Red Bluff, located in Marion County, Mississippi, and often dubbed "Mississippi's Little Grand Canyon," boasts a history as colorful as its geological formations.
Mississippi River Model
My previous visit to this site had been enriched by an encounter with the founder of the Friends of the Mississippi River Basin Model, a dedicated group working tirelessly to preserve and renew this historical and educational treasure, along with the surrounding Buddy Butts Park.
As I arrived and began to traverse the expansive scale model, a sense of familiarity mixed with a tinge of disappointment greeted me.
As I arrived and began to traverse the expansive scale model, a sense of familiarity mixed with a tinge of disappointment greeted me.
Go Kart Fun Center
Opened in 1977 this go kart track along with batting cages & miniature golf was the main attraction for family entertainment in the area. In 2003 families sought out other entertainment & the park was closed.
Fort Pike
NOTE: Fort Pike is closed to the public. @deadlyknot , @noladeej & I had permission & an escort from the state. The fort is protected by security & trespassers will be arrested.
Camp Happy Acres
Located in Long Beach, Mississippi was Camp Happy Acres. It was a water park that was open back in the 60's & was ran by Maxine and Erin 'Smitty' Smith. I'm not sure when it closed down, but from the looks of things, it has been a while. All I could find was the foundation & a few remnants of concrete. After all, there have been a few hurricanes & other storms since then. The paved parking lot is now covered with grass & weeds, but you could still see it. The main building had a concession area, changing rooms, and other amenities. The owners home was on the second floor overlooking the man made lake. It was a great place to hang out this morning & enjoy the weather & wild life.
Carnival Rides
Along the roadside in New Orleans sit some old & newer looking carnival rides. I've driven by many times, but I don't notice that anything changes with them.
Depot Creek
I was at lunch in Lucedale & really couldn't find anything to explore. I happened upon this park & straight away it seemed to have potantial. The pavillion looks like it may kept up, but the walkway over the water wasn't in good shape. I am not sure if it was damaged due to flooding or it is being neglected.
Royal Land
A ghost of an amusement park, Royal Land had high hopes of being the next Disney World in Mississippi. Now the concrete turrets keep watch over the path that once lead down every kid's dreams of carnival rides. I can imagine the 1970's excitement for such a small southern city with the bright lights, the sounds of the fair & the smell of carnival food. Anything to transport to that time & walk that path...
Sloss Furnaces
Sloss Furnaces is a National Historic Landmark in Birmingham, Alabama in the United States. It operated as a pig iron-producing blast furnace from 1882 to 1971. After closing, it became one of the first industrial sites in the U.S. to be preserved and restored for public use. Wikipedia
Battle of Raymond
The Battle of Raymond was fought on May 12, 1863, near Raymond, Mississippi, during the Vicksburg campaign of the American Civil War.
UPDATE
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