Lake Shore & Michigan Southern RR Tunnel

This tunnel is by the side of the road in Oil City, Pennsylvania. There has been a complete collapse of the tunnel about 50 yards in, and the floor of the remaining tunnel is flooded. The other end of the tunnel has been removed by road construction. Still, the remaining structure is a pretty impressive work for 1870. If you want to see where the tunnel ended continue along the river until you reach Route 428 by the Petroleum Street Bridge. There's a nice, old postcard shot of the tunnel at the bottom of this post.

Ong-Gwe-Ohn-Weh - Dunkirk, NY

This statue was one of 70 created as tributes to Native Americans by Akron, Ohio artist Peter Toth. At one time there was one in each state and each providence. Six appear to be gone and three more are in storage. This one was created in 1973 and appears to be out year-round, but is heavily wrapped to protect it from the harsh Western New York winters.

Barcelona Lighthouse and Keeper's Cottage

This lighthouse is the oldest remaining lighthouse on Lake Erie. It has been closed for over 150 years. At the time of its construction, it was the first public building in the US to be lighted with gas. I've been here on glorious, sunny days. Today this beauty looked like a great setting for a suspense movie.

First United Methodist - Youngsville

I was visiting this church which is listed for a number of Waymark categories. As I was taking photos, the local historian (and a member of the church) stepped out and asked if I would like to see the windows from the inside. She explained to me that church members were preparing for the 100-year anniversary of the church and were having the windows restored. They were fabulous and the highlight of my stop in town.

Kinzua Viaduct

Kinzua Viaduct Today






Kinzua Viaduct Fall 1990









Waymarks at this state park are for an item of the past. The Kinzua Viaduct was built in 1882. At the time it was the tallest railroad bridge in the world. Ali and I had the thrill of walking across the bridge years ago when it still carried train traffic. From the other side, there was a trail along the gorge to bring you back to the parking area. It was an amazing and thrilling walk from the heady elevation of crossing the viaduct to the wonder of viewing the work of art from below.

Today, you can visit the remains of the bridge and get a true sense of the power of nature. A tornado ripped through the gorge years ago and destroyed the viaduct in a matter of minutes. As you look south from the bridge, you can see the path of destruction left by the tornado.

I wish I knew years ago as much about photography as I do now. Still, these are photos that give a picture of the past in a waymark that can be visited today. The loss of this marvel still makes me sad when I visit. I am so glad I overcame my fear of heights to shoot some of the scarier shots.