Project II

For my project, I chose to use the idea of a haunted location. While I don't know if there have been any ghost sightings at this Gulf Shores, AL location, there is definately an eerie feel to the place.

The Lonely Shore

What was once a beautiful shore is now a site which reminds one of times of terror and physical disaster. Through out the years, hurricanes have visited this shore, but two particular hurricanes visited in the years of 2004 and 2005. First, Hurricane Ivan intruded on September 15th, 2004 and then the following year, Hurricane Katrina barged in for another round of devastation on August 29th 2006.

In the wake of these hurricanes, the beach of Gulf Shores, Alabama, is left with reminders of the past. This past was a happy time when families enjoyed fishing from a pier or simply relaxing in a beachfront condominium. The condominiums are empty now, and stand in a delicate, skeletal form. The only life that remains is brought in by the gentle breeze of the sea, allowing the drapes to dance behind the empty chairs.

The remaining pylons that once proudly supported the local pier bear the markings of previous visitors. These visitors were of the human sort, with feelings of love, happiness and excitement. Where are those feelings now? Do they still float on the sea breeze? Can the lingering laughter of children playing on the beach be heard in the echo of the tide as the old pylons are sprayed with the lapping waves?

The sea is a mysterious and haunting place. A grave to some, and a place of life for others. Perhaps it is the sea creatures who hold the secrets of times past on this shore. Do they remember the sounds of happiness drifting from the shore? Were they present for those fearful hurricane winds? Do they linger in the surf, longing for the return of human life and laughter?

The remains of this shore bear evidence of previous times and lives. All that now remains are the empty shells of what used to be.