Wild horses of Assateague Island National Seashore simply walk along any road they choose…
A brown and white wild horse from Assateague Island struts along the side of the road, looking as nonchalant as a celebrity on a red carpet. Captured through the car window, she seems to be weighing her options — maybe she’s thinking about hitching a ride or simply flaunting her fabulous mane.
No Assateague Pony hitchhikers, please.
This is no ordinary road; it’s on the iconic Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland, where wild horses roam free and RVs park like they own the place. The backdrop is a delightful mess of green shrubs that seem to whisper secrets to one another while keeping an eye on our equine friend.
As campers sip their coffee and take selfies, our horse is clearly the star of the show, basking under a clear blue sky. She might even be contemplating becoming an Instagram influencer — #HorseGoals anyone?
In this bright and natural setting, wildlife and human activity coexist in perfect harmony — or at least until someone tries to feed her a hot dog!
Be sure to visit Bill’s Assateague Island Photography Collection: CLICK HERE.
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?
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.
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.
Historic Train bridge over the river at Tuckahoe River State Park in Queen Anne, MD
Over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house we go in a make-believe train at the Tuckahoe State Park. The bridge has been out of service for many, many years but still stands over the Tuckahoe River along Route 404 in the center of the Delmarva Peninsula, the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Tuckahoe River Railroad Bridge in the Fall.
Tuckahoe River Railroad Bridge as see from a car driving past on Route 404 – getting to see this for a fraction of a second.
The Tuckahoe River Railroad Bridge in Queen Anne, MD is a beautiful and important landmark that has been part of the community for over 100 years. Located near the intersection of Route 404 and Route 50, this bridge is an integral part of the local history. Built in 1909, the Tuckahoe River Railroad Bridge stands as a testament to the engineering genius of its creators. Tucked away in the woods and now partially overgrown, this bridge is quite hard to find. It was originally built by the Pennsylvania Railroad and is a one-lane concrete and steel structure that spans the Tuckahoe River. Its overall length is over 100 feet and it stands 26 feet tall. The bridge is located at the southern border of the Tuckahoe River State Park and is “briefly” visible to vehicles passing by on Maryland Route 404 near Queen Anne, Maryland.
“Tuckahoe State Park is a public recreation area located along Tuckahoe Creek in Caroline and Queen Anne’s counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, United States. Adkins Arboretum, a garden and preserve maintaining over 600 native plant species, occupies 500 acres of the park.” (from :Wikipedia)
The above photograph was taken in 2014 and has been a popular image of Bill Swartwout Photography’s online gallery. So, of course prints are available along with a variety of home decor items.
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 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
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 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.
Bushel Basket Holiday trees in Grasonville, MD and throughout Delmarva…
Celebrating the Watermen of the Chesapeake Bay is series of non-traditional Christmas trees, three of which are located at the Fisherman’s Village complex, just east of Kent Island.
Crab Basket Christmas Tree at the Kent Narrows in Grasonville, MD. Note, please, that utility poles, wires vehicles and advertising signs have been “removed” from the original image.
Merry Crabby Christmas – Merry Crabness. This tree, along with two others are located at the Waterman’s Memorial in Grasonville, Queen Anne’s County, MD. Bushel Basket Trees are a common site on the Eastern Shore in several of the small water-oriented towns. Other sightings: Cambridge, Rock Hall, St. Michaels, Berlin (on the road to Assateague Island). In Maine and other New England states they have lobster trap trees – similar but not the same as “From the Land of Pleasant Living on the Eastern Shore!”
Three Bushel Basket Christmas Trees in Graysonville, MD
We got started on this photo project because we saw a picture and then found this bit of description on a Facebook post: “These baskets are at fishermans inn in Grasonville , they also have a lot of meaning , mostly not all but a lot have our local waterman’s names and drawn pictures of their boats ect on them that worked on the water most of their lives its located at the watermans memorial , I think there is 3 trees this year” (by Commenter, Michael Timms)
Here are three popular variations of the crab-topped Crab Basket Holiday Tree featured above. They are (l to r) a simulated watercolor painting, a simulated charcoal drawing and the original photograph presentation.
Interesting items about the Crab Basket Holiday Trees
Each tree has a meaning and each basket has a meaning: history, celebration, honor, remembering and/or holiday spirit.
The watercolor rendition of the Crab Basket Tree looks great as a T-shirt design.
202 baskets were used to make the first tree that was erected in Kent Narrows in 2020.
There was so much interest that two trees were created in 2022.
Interest continued to grow – with three trees being constructed in 2023.
Located at the Fisherman’s Village complex at the Kent Narrows (Kent Island Narrows), Grasonville, MD.
Every painted basket has a “story” to honor and/or remember someone or may simply be to share the holiday spirit.
There are “memorial baskets” to honor watermen who passed away in the previous year.
Proceeds from project activities support local watermen and families in need.
Basket painting was done by local citizens of all ages.
Each tree has a meaning and each basket has a meaning. Themes might include history, celebration, honor, remembering someone and/or simply the joy of holiday spirit.
Here is a Bushel Basket Christmas Tree found near the town of Berlin, MD along Route 611.
Crab Bushel Basket Christmas Tree Near Assateague Island, MD
Watermen’s Association 2022 Crab Basket Tree sponsor sign.
These trees would not be possible without the support of generous sponsors. The sign thanking/acknowledging them, erected by the Queen Anne’s County Watermen’s Association, is located at the site.
The Sponsors listed are: Armin’s Garage Doors LLC, Bay Tree Service, Bayside Insurance Associates Inc, Clements Creek Ventures, Fishergate Graphic Design, Fisherman’s Inn & Crab Deck, Harris Crab House, Jennifer Norfolk–Coldwell Banker, Kent Island Rotary, Kent Narrows Development Foundation, Kentmorr Marina, Molly Maid, QAC Economic & Tourism Development, Queenstown Bank, R&D Electric, Rag Lady Inc, Ruth Brothers Portable Toilets, Shore Lumber & Millwork, Shore Septic, Shore Sign, Shore United Bank, TJ & Sherri Hunter, VFW Post 7464, and Wye River Marine. The sign is thanking … First Mate sponsors and all who purchased a basket. Thank you!
Christmas Lights
Of course a Christmas Tree need lights for viewing at night. These Crab Basket Trees are no exception.
The Crab Basket Christmas Tree is lighted at night.
Yes, you can purchase the wall art photographs in a variety of substrates as well as on Home Decor, Apparel and Other Items.
We rival the colors of New England fall foliage right here in Delaware.
The first hint of autumn is always a welcome sign after a long, hot summer. In Delaware, the turning of the leaves signals the start of fall celebrations and all things pumpkin. One of the best places to enjoy the crisp autumn air is at Coursey Pond in Frederick.
Autumn at Coursey Pond Wall Art
This beautiful autumn scene was captured at Coursey Pond in Frederica, Delaware by Bill Swartwout Photography. It appears to be two scenes in one, with the colorful fall foliage and brilliant blue sky being reflected in the still waters of Coursey Pond.
Jigsaw Puzzle of the Autumn at Coursey Pond Photograph
How about the challenge of working a jigsaw puzzle with the intricate designs created here by Mother Nature.? Would you give it a go – or perhaps gift one to a friend or family member with an affinity for puzzles?
Four styles of this popular photograph are now available in a 2:1 panorama ratio.
I’ve had requests for a more-panorama-shape of one of my most popular photographs of the Indian River Inlet Bridge. So I made a “regular” Panorama (2:1 ratio) and three additional presentations. Might you be interested in any of these please let me know. If so, which one? Leave a response in the comments section at the bottom of the page.
Indian River Inlet Bridge at Twilight Panorama Photograph in Four Presentations.
The Charles W. Cullen Bridge is the official name of this beautiful example of cable-stayed suspension bridge architecture. The Indian River Inlet Bridge carries coastal traffic on Route 1 across the Indian River Inlet just north of Bethany Beach Delaware.
This beautiful structure is sight to behold at any time of day or night. However, twilight, the transition between day and night, brings out the spectacular color of the bridge, the water and the sky – all in shades of blue – at this magical time.
The Indian River inlet joins the Rehoboth Bay and the Indian River Bay with the Atlantic Ocean. The Indian River Bridge over the inlet allows traffic to flow north and south along “Coastal Highway” (Route 1), connecting several beach resort towns from Ocean City in Maryland to Rehoboth Beach and Lewes in Delaware.
The Delaware Seashore State Park facilities on both the north and south sides of the Indian River Inlet and along the shore of the Indian River Bay attract thousands or people, who can enjoy sights like this, all year ’round. The area, just north of Bethany Beach, DE boasts campgrounds, a large marina, fishing and, of course, a well-maintained and guarded (in season) beach on the Atlantic Ocean.
The original “best selling” print: Indian River Inlet Bridge Twilight Reflection
Charles W. Cullen Bridge – Dedicated 2012
Dedication Plaque on the Indian River Bridge Pedestrian Walkway
This bridge is named in honor and remembrance of Charles West Cullen, 1865-1948, a man who dedicated his life to public service and the the citizens of Delaware. Between 1930 and 1940, he served on the State Highway Commission, eventually being elevated to Chairman of the Commission from 1938-1939. While he was Chairman, work was started on a new bridge to span the Indian River Inlet. In recognition for his service on the Commission, the bridge was dedicated on May 18, 1940, in his name for his advocacy for the proper opening of the inlet and the internal development of the Indian River. Two additional bridges bearing his name have spanned the inlet since that time. This, the fifth bridge to span the inlet waterway, is was also dedicated in his name. (Paraphrased from the bridge dedication plaque.)
Use the links below to browse or shop more of Bill’s photographs of the Indian River Inlet Bridge.
This Delmarva Grain Elevator received positive comments in both presentations, color and B&W.
How does one choose which presentation to publish to one’s online gallery? Why, ask your followers on Social Media, of course – specifically on Facebook.
Delmarva Grain Elevator in Color
The steel-gray color of the sky seems to emulate the steel-color of the silos and transfer screws of this grain elevator on a Maryland farm. When asking friends and followers a piece of art, one must have a thick skin because some of the responses my be quite critical. Fortunately, most in this survey were complimentary.
Delmarva Grain Elevator in Black and White
This was the question – simple and straightforward:
Does this work better in Color or in B&W? (It was also identified as a Delmarva Grain Elevator – photographed on 06/18/22.)
Here is a list of 18 unmodified responses – in the order received:
The color shot is FANTASTIC. !
Color. Love it.
I like the touch of blue in the color version.
Love the color with the blue sky peeking through.
Black and white photography for me, as your subject is mostly monochromatic and lends itself to that medium. The color version almost takes on a selective coloring look to it. But you should always go with what your vision is for the piece, speaking from your heArt.
Color wins…
I personally like the B&W more but it seems that the darkness of the clouds goes away in the above B&W version. I still like the second/B&W version more but would make it a bit darker.
I like the color shot.
Color for sure!
Both great. BW for me.
Color shot!
Black and white, more dramatic.
B & W
Rather ominous in BE. Pop of blue in color is interesting but overall BW
B&W
I like the black and white due to the detailed shown on the structure of the grain silos and transfer screws.
I’m usually a black and white fan but for this one I’ll go with color.
Just enough color in the sky enhances it…my opinion! Great picture!
The overall result is 10 prefer the color presentation and 8 prefer the black and white. While the color version appears to have won the poll, the margin is small, and I would not like to disappoint the 44% of my responders who chose the black and white version of my Delmarva Grain Elevator photograph – so I have uploaded BOTH versions to my online galleries.
Choose a link below to get a better look at YOUR choice…
The Delmarva Peninsula – home to a wide variety of grains, vegetables and livestock – has a long history of farming, but in the 1950s the peninsula began to focus on its poultry industry. Today, Delmarva is one of the most productive agricultural areas in the nation; it is also one of the largest chicken-producing regions in the world. The mainstay diet of a chicken is corn, followed by soybeans, wheat and to a lesser extent, other crops.
