An Invitation For The Curious
An invitation for the curious is how I like to think of old, abandoned buildings. This is especially true for those with character. They stir our imagination and make us curious about them. Why was it abandoned? What’s the story of the people that lived, or worked, or worshipped here? Where did all the people go? What’s the history of this place? I want to know the story. After all, everyone loves a good story. So many questions; so few answers.
The siren song of an abandoned building can draw us in. It seemingly invites us in to learn and explore. We want to learn and find out more about the building. It is also the thrill of the unknown. Sometimes we can go in and find some answers and sometimes we can learn only through research. Occasionally, it is a combination of both. If we are lucky we can learn the full story. However, luck is a fickle thing. We are frequently left wondering and frustrated.
As I’ve said before
I really like old churches. I think this is because the character of an aging church has a certain beauty that I find captivating. When churches show their age, it reminds you of all they’ve been through. They are the scene of some the happiest and some of the saddest time in people’s lives.
The Photos
I recently re-discovered some images of a beautiful, old and abandoned church. So, I decided to re-process them to hopefully convey the spirit of the scene. The first image is the inspiration for the post title, An Invitation For The Curious. The old door is halfway open. The rusty, cobwebbed doorknob adds to the mystique. It tickles your curiosity and begs you to come in and look around.
I do not know the purpose of the material draped in the background of Pews. However, it seems appropriate, almost like a funeral shroud waiting to be placed on the deceased. It’s sad to see what was once a beautiful church in such poor condition.
Another poignant scene was the hymnals stacked on the old piano. It’s as if they were left this way after choir practice under the assumption that they would be another session. Sadly, there wasn’t. I’ve been to a number of old abandoned churches. Frequently, there would be an upright piano such as this one. I always thought it strange since those were once a valuable item. Perhaps, they were too heavy to move, or no one knew how to play, or maybe nobody had the room for them. Who knows?
The Dilemmas For The Curious
There are a number of personal dilemmas that you have to consider when find an “abandoned” site. The first is, are you allowed to simply go in? Your curiosity may “invite” you in, but your curiosity isn’t the property owner. Likewise, just because no one is maintaining it, it doesn’t mean it is okay to go inside. All are owned by someone even if it is the government. The best approach is to get permission. Being friendly and polite along with an explanation of what you plan to do can help a lot in getting access; but not always. Many people resort to simple trespassing; rationalizing it as “who cares?” and “we’re not hurting anything”. Let your conscience be your guide.
A second dilemma related to the first is should you go in? This is an issue related to safety. Time, the elements, and a lack of maintenance can leave building in a dangerous condition that is often hidden. Remember, no one can hear you scream! Choose wisely.
The third dilemma is should I share the location of an interesting abandoned site? It’s sad to say but irresponsible people ruin a lot of beautiful sites. Vandalism, graffiti and the dumping of trash all place an extra burden on the property owner. As a result, owners deny access or even raze the building. Property owners have a legitimate concern about liability issues. Don’t add to their burden. Think before you share.
Leave A Comment And Share
Tell me about your experience photographing old and abandoned buildings. I’d love to hear your comments and feedback. Please leave a comment in the comment box below.
