Visiting Myrtle Beach for the Winter.

It’s usually a good bit warmer here than back home in Delaware.

So, you’ve decided to join the flock of snowbirds and head down to Myrtle Beach in January. You might be thinking, Am I crazy? Isn’t it cold down there? Well, I’m here to tell you that while the rest of the country is shivering, Myrtle Beach is enjoying some surprisingly warmer weather. It’s like a secret paradise for those seeking refuge from the icy grip of winter.

The beach at Myrtle Beach looking south from the 14th Street Pier. The pier in the distance is the 2nd Street Pier.

But don’t think that a trip to Myrtle Beach in February will be your typical winter escape. Sure, it may not be as hot as midsummer, but you’ll still find plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities to keep you entertained. From beach walks with your toes in the sand to golfing on world-class courses, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the milder temperatures and take advantage of fewer crowds. February is like that one friend who always has an extra sweater handy – surprisingly warmer than expected.

When March rolls around, you’ll feel like you’ve hit the jackpot with even more pleasant weather. The ocean breeze becomes gentle and inviting—a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls along the boardwalk or sipping cocktails at beachside bars. Plus, you can catch some early spring events and festivals without worrying about battling through summer throngs just yet. So pack your bags, snowbird! Myrtle Beach is waiting for you with open arms and warmer temperatures than you’d ever expect during these off-season months!

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


Fenwick Island Lighthouse Historic Panorama

Here is a “colorized” image from more than a century ago.

Built in 1858, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse stands as a beacon of history for the small towns of Fenwick Island, Delaware and Ocean City, Maryland.

fenwick island lighthouse colorized panorama
Fenwick Island Lighthouse “colorized” panorama photograph.

Looking way back, this panorama photograph of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse in coastal Delaware was created and colorized from an 1891 faded black and white image downloaded from the United States National Archive website.

fenwick island light station from national archives
The Fenwick Island Light Station from the National Archives, National Museum of American History

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse Station has been aiding navigation for mariners since August 1, 1859. Today, the historic structure is a popular tourist destination, especially for photography enthusiasts. The “Fenwick Light” is an historic landmark located in southernmost Delaware right at the border with Ocean City, Maryland.

fenwick island lighthouse abstract panorama image
Fenwick island Lighthouse Panorama processed as an abstract to give it a more “painterly” appearance.

Oldest Lighthouse in Delaware

A quote from the website: “The official opening of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, when the light was first lit as an aid to navigation, was on August 1, 1859.” That makes the Fenwick Island Light the oldest lighthouse in Delaware.

fenwick island lighthouse as a simulated canvas painting
Fenwick Island Lighthouse as a simulated canvas painting.

Visit a website about: The Fenwick Island Lighthouse

Link to: The Panorama Photograph

Link to: The Abstract Panorama Image

Link to: The Simulated Canvas Painting of the Lighthouse

Link to: Fenwick Island Lighthouse Wall Art Collection


Fenwick Island Dunes and Waves

The beach at Fenwick Island, Delaware is gorgeous on a breezy day in the Fall.

Fenwick Island, Delaware is situated directly on the Atlantic Ocean and provides a picturesque beach for visitors to explore. Located in Sussex County, it offers a unique coastal experience with plenty of activities for all ages. With its pristine sandy beaches, clear waters, and breathtaking views of the ocean, Fenwick Island is the perfect destination for a family vacation or weekend getaway.

fenwick dunes and waves
Fenwick Dunes and Waves Wall Art

Fenwick Island, Delaware is a beautiful vacation destination that offers plenty of activities and attractions. Located on the Atlantic Coast, Fenwick Island has become increasingly popular for its pristine beach and clear waters. Whether it’s a family vacation or a romantic getaway, Fenwick Island offers something for everyone. With a variety of restaurants, shops, and outdoor activities, visitors can explore the area at their own pace while taking in the sights and sounds of the beach.

fenwick dunes and waves in blacks and white
Fenwick Dunes and Waves in Blacks and White

The beautiful beach at Fenwick Island, Delaware is a must-see destination for beach-goers. An island on the Atlantic Coast, Fenwick Island is a tranquil paradise situated between Ocean City, Maryland and Bethany Beach, Delaware. With its white sand beaches, boardwalk attractions and miles of shoreline, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities in Fenwick Island.

fenwick dunes and waves panorama
Fenwick Dunes and Waves in a Panorama Format

For browsing or shopping, each of the images clicks to a more detailed page and see them without watermarks. The links below are more generic but will show you some gorgeous landscape and seascape photography.

Link to: Bill’s Coastal Delaware Collection

Link to: Bill’s Beaches Collection

Link to: www.BillSwartwoutPhotography.com