Fernbank the Project
Fernbank Park is a narrow strip of land that stretches about a mile along the Ohio bank of the Ohio River. The area is a busy hub of shipping activity, and I set out early one foggy morning in late December, 2023 to capture some images of barges moving goods. That first session resulted in a moody set of images that inspired me to return and to further expand the original intent beyond the limits of the park and the barges. The project will continue to grow. It is a work in progress. Please check back. I will be adding images, text, and captions. The galleries below reflect the separate areas I've explored.This project is by no means a deep dive into the history of the area, but indeed the history here is clearly visible and has left particularly clear marks on the present. I will talk about that history throughout the project galleries.
Fernbank Park Gallery
The park itself
I think this image captures my initial impression on that first morning. It was cool and quiet. It felt somber, but comforting.
Fernbank is a small park, but views of the water and excellent walking paths seems to attract those who live nearby.
Looking west along the Ohio River. The fog hides a lot. The entire river corridor is a mixture of industry, past and present. Homes are scattered among the surrounding hills.
Steps of the caretakers residence. In the early 1900's, Fernbank was the site of a dam and this residence for the individual tasked with maintenance and operation of the dam.
One of the many barges that move along the river. According to The Waterways Journal Weekly, "the Ohio River now has the highest freight volume by tonnage of any inland port in the United States." That was in 2022.
Anderson Ferry Gallery
Anderson Ferry is not in Fernbank Park.
Sayler Park Gallery
The town of Sayler Park sits adjascent to Fernbank Park, just across Route 50.
North Bend Gallery
The North Bend Gallery
