Category: Architecture

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Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore Collapse

A tragic ship collision caused the Key Bridge to collapse like a house of cards on March 26, 2024.

In the wee hours of a cold March morning, a large freighter, the Dali, lost power and steerage control and collided with a major support of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland. The collision occurred at 1:28 AM and caused the main supporting structure to fail and the bridge spans to, literally, fall apart.

Imagine the chaos that ensued when a massive freighter collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing sections to collapse into the Patapsco River below. The sheer force of impact from the container ship left onlookers stunned and authorities scrambling to respond to this unprecedented disaster. As emergency crews rushed to the scene, questions arose about how such a catastrophe could have occurred in one of the busiest waterways in Maryland. This disaster effectively closed the (very busy) Port of Baltimore for an indeterminant length of time.

Francis Scott Key Bridge as seen from the sea wall at Fort McHenry
Francis Scott Key Bridge as seen from the sea wall at Fort McHenry in 2017, 40 years after it opened.

The Key Bridge was opened for use in 1977. This author can remember watching the construction process for the years before the opening. The full name is, of course, derived from the lawyer, Francis Scott Key, who penned the words to our National Anthem, the Star Spangled Banner.

FSK Bridge as seen from Fort McHenry
FSK Bridge as seen from Fort McHenry, about four miles to the west.

In conclusion

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore sent shockwaves through the city as the iconic structure crumbled into the Patapsco River. The aftermath of the bridge collapse revealed a startling vulnerability in our infrastructure and raised concerns about the safety of maritime navigation through this vital transportation corridor at the state and national levels. Investigations underway and repair efforts are already being planned. One can’t help but wonder about the long-term implications of this incident on shipping traffic and regional economy. As we await updates on this developing story, it’s clear that lessons must be learned from this tragic event to prevent similar disasters in the future.

Francis Scott Key Bridge after the collapse
Francis Scott Key Bridge the day after the collapse – Photo by Arthur Swartwout.

For many, this catastrophic event raised questions about infrastructure resilience and safety in a rapidly changing world. In moments like these, we are reminded that even our most trusted landmarks are vulnerable to unexpected challenges and that vigilance and care must be paramount in safeguarding our communities from potential disaster.

Francis Scott Key Bridge from the Rodman Cannons at Fort McHenry
Francis Scott Key Bridge from the Rodman Cannons at Fort McHenry

Visit www.FSKBridge.com for more photos of the Key Bridge as it used to be.

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Patriotic Red Barn

An iconic barn near the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan

Located in the heart of Michigan near the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, this Patriotic Red Barn stands tall and proud with its classic American flag design. With its iconic red color contrasting against the sky, this barn serves as a nostalgic reminder of our nation’s history and the values we hold dear. A symbol of resilience and determination, it has become an emblematic landmark for both locals and visitors alike.

But beyond its visual appeal, the Patriotic Red Barn holds deeper significance. It embodies the spirit of unity that exists within our diverse society. As different people pass by or gather around this barn, they are reminded that despite our differences, we are all part of something greater – a shared love for our country. This barn acts as a unifying force that brings people together under one commonality: patriotism.

Whether you catch a glimpse of it on your daily commute or go out of your way to visit Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore specifically to see it, the Patriotic Red Barn creates an impact like no other structure can. Its timeless charm continues to captivate hearts and minds across generations. So next time you find yourself near Michigan’s picturesque landscape, don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness this powerful symbol firsthand – standing steadfast amidst changing times yet reminding us all of what it truly means to be proud Americans.

Available as prints on a variety of surfaces at: https://www.pictorem.com/854916/Patriotic%20Red%20Barn%20in%20Michigan.html?refer=BD2EET9DGH

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Menominee North Pier Lighthouse

Half of the Menominee Light is in Wisconsin while the other half is in Michigan.

The Menominee North Pier Lighthouse stands tall and proud at the entrance of the Menominee River, where it joins Lake Michigan. Located on the border between Wisconsin and Michigan, this historic beacon has been guiding sailors since 1877. As you approach the lighthouse, you can’t help but be captivated by its striking red brick construction and classic white concrete base.

Menominee North Pier Lighthouse

(More photos coming soon)

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Menominee North Pier Lighthouse is its unique dual-state status. Half of the lighthouse sits in Wisconsin while the other half rests in Michigan. This unusual division serves as a gentle reminder that borders needn’t divide us; they can simply enhance our appreciation for shared history and natural beauty.

Standing atop this majestic structure (open seasonally) offers breathtaking panoramic views of both states, with Lake Michigan stretching out endlessly before your eyes. As waves crash against the pier below, you may even catch a glimpse of freighters gracefully making their way through these Great Lakes waters – a true testament to mankind’s ability to work harmoniously with nature.

Visiting Menominee North Pier Lighthouse allows you to step back in time while experiencing an enchanting blend of history and scenic wonderment. Close your eyes and imagine being transported back to a simpler era when sailors relied on these beacons to guide them home safely. With each visit, this remarkable symbol reminds us not only of our rich maritime heritage but also our interconnectedness as fellow adventurers sailing upon Life’s great waters.

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Iconic Red Barn

The red barn has always been a staple of the American agricultural landscape.

Red barns are not only iconic symbols in rural America, but the red barn is also part of its history and culture. Have you ever stopped to wonder why so many American barns are painted in this particular color?

iconic red barn greenwood delaware
This iconic red barn is located on Route 16 just east of Greenwood, Delaware – in the heart of the Delmarva Peninsula.

The iconic red barn is a staple of the American countryside, with its bright hue standing out against the rolling hills. But why are barns painted red? What is the history behind this choice of color? In exploring why American barns have been traditionally painted red and examining the various reasons for this cultural phenomenon, we found one that seems to make sense. This might provide an historical and a modern explanation for why red is so popular among farmers and farm buildings in America.

In the “early days” there were few, if any, choices for building supplies and (what we now know as) paints and sealers did not exist. The wood of the barns was coated with an oil such as linseed oil (from flax) and may have also had milk or lime mixed in. But they also used rust (iron oxide) because it was plentiful on a farm and it also killed the fungi and mold/mildew that would, otherwise, grow on the wood surfaces.

When paint became available, many farmers chose to continue the “red barn” tradition. Or, maybe, it was because red paint is slightly less expensive to produce because iron oxide is so plentiful in nature. Keep in mind that not all barns are painted red – but the majority of them are.

gettysburg red barn
Red Barn on a rolling hillside near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Barn images are for sale as wall art and printed on a variety of home decor items. To see more, to browse or shop – click on the images above or the links below.

Link to: Iconic Red Barn

Link to: Red Barn near Gettysburg, PA

Link to: Bill’s Farm Collection

Link to: the Bill Swartwout Photography Gallery