Missouri Photographic Destinations

Spencer Ghost Town Jolly Mill Rockbridge Mill Bob's Gasoline Alley Gay Parita Sinclair - Paris Springs Junction Turner's Mill Topaz Mill Hodgson Water Mill Paydown Mill Bollinger Mill State Historic Site Dillard Mill State Historic Site Klepzig MIll Montauk Mill Falling Spring Mill Alley Spring Mill Missouri State Penitentiary Red Oak II Missoura

Let me help you to find a great location in Missouri for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser known destinations, as well as the famous “Icon Locations” for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information,  consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to insure a quality guide to great locations for photography in Missouri.

Interactive Google Map

Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page.

 

Missouri Photographic Destinations

Missouri Destinations
  Turner’s Mill Wheel Turners Mill is an extinct town in eastern Oregon County, in the state of Missouri. The mill was adjacent to Turners Spring on the north bank of the Eleven Point River. The community has the name of Jesse L. Clay Turner, the proprietor of a local mill. A variant name was “Surprise”. A post office called Surprise was established in 1895, and remained in operation until 1925. Turner Spring is a lovely place for family fun. Turner Spring (1.5-million-gallon average daily flow), flows from a high rocky bluff and use to power a 25 ft metal mill. The Mill is in the Spring branch. There is no camping on the North side of the River. The North River Access is strictly for viewing and exploring. What remains of Turner Mill is the huge overshot wheel, drive shafts and  a stone burr, used fro grinding corn and wheat.  Operated as early as the 1850’s by G.W. Decker, the original mill utilized a wooden overshot wheel.  Jesse L. (Clay) Turner bought the mill in 1891.  After partially rebuilding the wheel, he refurbished the four story mill building with a system of belts, pulleys and drive shafts, which operated a planer, drill press, various types of saws and the equipment for grinding wheat or corn.  The Post Office was housed in one end of the mill. The possession of enough power to operate the mill and the maintenance of the wheel were ongoing concerns.  Turner abandoned the wooden wheel in favor of a turbine, which furnished power until 1915.  The turbine was then replaced by a 25 foot steel overshot wheel hauled to the site in sections by oxen.  Logs were brought to the mill by floating them down the Eleven Point River.  Teams of Oxen hauled the logs out of the river.  At that time roads were almost non-existent or very poor. What to Photograph The only thing remaining of Turner’s Mill is the 25′ Metal wheel that is still standing in the spring near where the mill was located many years ago.     Where it is: The remains of the mill wheel are located at the Turner’s Mill Access point on the Eleven Point River in the Mark Twain National Forest 15 miles south of Winona, Missouri.  Turner Mill North is located on the left side Eleven Point National Scenic River at mile 22.3. This access is 4.9 miles downriver of Greer Crossing. Located on the edge of the Irish Wilderness area near Alton, Missouri, Directions: Turner Mill North Picnic Area is accessed by hilly, gravel Forest roads 3152 and 3190. The turnoff to Turner Mill is 15 miles south of Winona or 11 miles north of Alton on Hwy 19. From Hwy 19, turn onto FR 3152 for 6 miles then on FR 3190 for 3 miles. when you reach the canoe access and picnic area there is a trail behind the vault toilets that follows the Turner Spring to the wheel. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   GPS: 36°45’59.746″ N 91°16’5.05″ W Cost: There is no cost to Turner Mill. Hours: There are no hours the site is open 24 hours a day.   Facilities: There are vault toilets but no pother facilities at the mill site. The nearest town is Alton, MO. Location Contact Information: Mark Twain National Forest 401 Fairgrounds Road Rolla, MO 65401 (573) 364-4621 Eleven Point District Office: (573) 996-2153 Contact Us Turner’s Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Topaz Mill Topaz Mill, located on the North Fork River, is a privately owned historic site. Tourist are welcomed to visit the site and tours are gladly given! The farm and mill was purchased in 1957, by the O’Neal family… Clarence and Adith O’Neal, and their son Joe and his wife Billie O’Neal. It is a popular destination point for those interested the old mills. Topaz stands out because all of the original equipment remains. It is as if they shut the doors at the end of the work day! Tours of the old mill are gladly given by Joe Bob O’Neal when he is available. There are no regular hours that the mill is open for tours. One can drop by or call ahead to insure that someone is available to give a tour. The old Topaz Store remains to be enjoyed by tourist. It is a step back in time! Many of our local senior citizens recall shopping in the old store and treats of “penny candies”. You may drop into Topaz anytime or schedule a visit and tour. 417-948-0154 Once the small but thriving community of Topaz, MO. existed at the crossing of the North Fork River at Topaz Springs. Still standing there is the historic Topaz Mill and the old General Store which is now part of the privately owned farm of the O’Neal Family. They have shared the history of the community with curious tourists for years. The mill amazingly has all of the original equipment, which is unusual for buildings of this age. The mill is partially operational and powered by the waters that flow from Topaz Spring. What to Photograph The historic Topaz Mill, the original mill equipment inside and the Topaz General Store.   Where it is: Directions to Topaz Mill from Cabool, MO: South from Cabool on Hwy 181 to Hwy 76. Turn Rt and go about 1/2 mile and turn left on “E”. You go about 4 miles and the pavement ends just past Mt.Ararat Church. Continue on the dirt road about 1.5 mil and you will come to Topaz Mill! Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   GPS: 36°56’44.158″ N 92°12’11.67″ W Cost: There is no cost to visit Topaz Mill, however donations are greatly appreciated and help to preserve the mill. Hours: You may drop into Topaz anytime or schedule a visit and tour. 417-948-0154 Facilities: There are no public facilities at the mill.  The nearest towns are Cabool and Willow Springs Location Contact Information: Rt 63 Box 728 Cabool, Missouri m.me/194425447587837 Call (417) 948-0154 friendsoftopazmill@gmail.com Topaz Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Spencer Ghost Town Spencer is a small unincorporated crossroads in eastern Lawrence County, Missouri, United States. It lies along former U.S. Route 66 (now a county road) approximately six miles  west of Halltown.  A post office called Spencer was established in 1868, and remained in operation until 1907. The community was named after a local merchant whose store was known as “Spencer”. Prior to that the place was known as Johnson’s Mill. Route 66 is many things to many people. Each person tends to experience the road differently There is a certain spirit / feeling, that resides along Route 66. The spirit Of Route 66 lives on in people. their stories, the structures that they have seen, and their appreciation Spencer. Missouri is a very important part of the historical Route 66. Route 66 bypassed Spencer in 1961. The story behind Spencer was one man’s dream. Sidney Casey heard that the first major east to west highway (U S Route 66) would be constructed through the center of the United States. He had the vision to know that some day when the road came through, it would be an excellent location to operate the many business’s that he eventually had, such as, service station garage, cafe, grocery store, barber shop. post Office and feed store (all but the cafe and barber shop were operated by the Casey family). He wanted this dream so bad that he walked 100 miles on foot to buy the property in July 1925. He contacted the owner of this property, Frank Johnson, and paid him S400.00 for the entire asking price, for the store building and two acres of land. And eventually after many years his dream had been fulfilled. This land was also important because across the road there was a labor camp. They  had several hundred men that were used to construct the highway. They used the water from Johnson Creek and mixed their concrete by hand in sleds and used teams of horses to pull the sleds to the roadway and hand troweled the concrete. As of today, the highway in front of Spencer is the only one of four stretches of Route 66 that has the original concrete road and has never been overlaid or widened. In its heyday, Spencer was an important stop along Route 66. There were tourist cabins up the hill at Camp Lookout, that you could rent nightly and a wooden dance floor that was a popular attraction to the many travelers passing through on Route 66. Francis and Mary Lynn Ryan purchased Spencer in 2007. They have done a lot of research to help them in their goal to restore the Buildings back to how they were. Over the years, many structures along Missouri ‘s Route 66 have deteriorated and it’s sad to see history disappear. The Ryans purchased Spencer with intention of keeping it from deteriorating any further. There is too much at stake. It is not just a service station or feed store or café, it is a town. Restoring it has been a huge undertaking, but has received great recognition in Missouri. So much could be done with this particular strip of Route 66, but their interests at this time is to preserve the structures of the town of Spencer. Their plans are not to make any of the stores functional, but to restore them to look like they did back in the 30 ‘s and 40 ‘s. Lots of work and money has gone into the restoration but the Ryan ‘s have enjoyed every part of it. In the short time they have owned Spencer, the Ryan Is have been overwhelmed with the tourists that stop and just want to know about the history of Spencer and what their future plans are. Where it is: Spencer is located on historic Route 66 six miles west of Halltown Mo.  From Route 66 turn south onto Co Rd 2062 (the original Route 66) and drive one mile to the gas station, on the left. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   GPS: 37°11’4.283″ N 93°42’10.181″ W   Cost: There is no cost to visit Spencer, this is private property, please show respect. Hours: There are no hours, if the owners are present they may have the buildings open and will tell you the history of the town.   Location Contact Information: Address: Co Rd 2062, Spencer, MO No contact information is available. Facilities: There are no facilities in Spencer.   Spencer Ghost Town  Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Rockbridge Mill From the Rockbridge Rainbow Trout & Game Ranch Late in the summer of 1841 a group of families left Marion County, Kentucky, in three ox and horse drawn wagons led by Captain Kim Amyx. Their destination would require some 500 miles and six months of challenging travel. They were searching the unknown for a new life in the virgin wilderness of the Ozarks, and would end their journey near present day Hodgson Mill. It is reported that members of this wagon train, along with other previous settlers, set about to establish a new community known as Rockbridge. The original town and mill site was located near the confluence of Spring Creek and Bryant Creek. It was the county seat of Ozark County, and encompassed what today is three separate counties: Douglas, Howell, and Ozark. After a few short years, the town and mill were destroyed by fire during a civil war battle. In 1868, B.V. Morris rebuilt the original mill on its present day location. The Mill’s reconstruction was followed by the reinstatement of the post office, a general store, Masonic Lodge, bank, church, school, blacksmith shop, and a large farm house, known today as the White House. The village of Rockbridge was a gathering place for people from the countryside. A trip to the mill was a great occasion, enabling people to visit old friends and neighbors, to get their meal and flour, to utilize the post office, to vote on Election Day, and to get news of the outside world. In 1946, the Amyx family moved to Rockbridge. Lile and Edith Amyx had a saw mill on the lower part of the stream, and also worked in Gainesville in the family business, the Amyx Auto Company. In 1954, the family began to develop the Rockbridge Rainbow Trout & Game Ranch. Edith became Postmaster of the Rockbridge Post Office, the oldest post office in the county. The days were long, and the nights short as they worked diligently to bring life back to the Rockbridge Village.  Once again, people from the towns and countryside came from miles around to visit friends and neighbors, enjoy a good meal, and vote on Election Day. This time they came to bring news from the outside world and enjoy world class trout fishing. In the 1895, Sidney and Edgie Amyx (Lile’s parents), were married at Rockbridge. The couple homesteaded the land directly above Rockbridge Spring. Ralph Amyx (Lile’s brother) was born on this site in 1907, now the site of Ralph’s Ridge Condos named in his honor.  Activity flourished during the latter years of the 19th century and continued until the 1920’s and 1930’s, but as gasoline power and better roads came along, the need for the mill and the blacksmith shop gradually declined. Eventually there was not a need for the general store. The world changed and Rockbridge was almost abandoned. Only the post office remained to mark the existence of this once bustling community. Years later Rockbridge still exists with all the stamina, character, and the way of life we so greatly admired about our forefathers. With a little luck and a lot of hard work, the little village in a valley of the Ozark hills will continue to create history and provide memories for all who visit. The mill is now home to the Rockbridge Grist Mill Club…This wonderful old pub set in the 1800’s grist mill serves scrumptious appetizers and premium beverages in a unique setting. What to Photograph The old mill which is now a pub, the dam and waterfall along with trout fishermen in the creek, and the few remaining buildings of the village of Rockbridge. Note:   At the time I visited and photographed the mill had sustained major damage from record flooding and was closed, but has since reopened. Where it is: Hidden away in a valley along the bluff-lined Spring Creek, Rockbridge, Missouri. Drive south on Hwy. 181 to N Hwy., then right on N. Just north of the Junction with Hwy. 95, follow the signs to Rockbridge. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   GPS: 36°47’20.58″ N 92°24’32.604″ W   Cost: There is no cost to visit Rockbridge Mill. Hours: Access to the exterior of the Mill is open all the time. The Grist Mill Club is open from April – October, and is closed during the winter season.  Hours may vary, but generally the Mill is open in the afternoons and evenings through the week and early afternoon through the evening on the weekends. Resturant hours: Winter Hours: 8a-7p In-Season: 8a-8p   Facilities: This 2000+ acre resort in the heart of the Ozark Mountains is the perfect setting for a family vacation or corporate retreat! Take a picturesque step back in time. Eliminate the distractions and chaos of modern life and immerse yourself in the tranquil and relaxing atmosphere of ROCKBRIDGE Rainbow Trout & Game Ranch.  Lodging and a restaurant are at this location. Location Contact Information: 4297 CR 142 Rockbridge, MO 65741 Phone: (417) 679-3619 Fax: (417) 679-2470 info@rockbridgemo.com Rockbridge Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Red Oak II Red Oak II is the creation of artist Lowell Davis, who’s family had pioneered the town of Red Oak. After success as an artist, he started moving his old home town to his farm 32 miles away creating Red Oak II. Lowell now lives in what he considers his “Masterpiece” in the Belle Starr house where the famous outlaw was raised. Red Oak II is located a few miles Northeast of Carthage Missouri, just off Route 66. Red Oak II, a faithful reproduction of a small Missouri town, is the labor of love of one Lowell Davis. In the late 1980s, he began creating Red Oak II in an empty field not far from Carthage. Davis grew up in the nearby town of Red Oak, and like many of us, witnessed and lamented some of the changes taking place in countless small communities in the boom years following the end of World War II. So, he turned his artistic talents to the issue. Davis began procuring castoff buildings, moving them here, and sprucing them up. What you’ll see is nearly a complete town, minus the people and traffic you’d see if all of the buildings were inhabited and in use. You’ll find a general store, blacksmith shop, service station, church, residences (some of which are now occupied), and much more. There’s even a cemetery to complete the picture. Admission & Hours Red Oak II does not have regular hours and is always open, and there is no admission charge, however Lowell does accept donations to help with the upkeep.  Please keep in mind that this is private property and people live here, please respect their privacy and obey signs. What to Photograph: The list of items to photograph is very long and includes many old original buildings from the town of Red Oak, and the surrounding area including Route 66. Some of the buildings include: Elmira School Red Oak II Cafe School Marm House Trolly Car Diner Feed and Seed Store Town Hall Bandstand Log Barn Blacksmith Shop General Store Woodshed Phillips 66 Gas Station Belle Star House The Birdsong Salem Country Church Marshall Hooker Cabin Marshall’s Office In addition are many other structures and homes, lots of antique cars, and some of Lowell’s whimsical art work. Best Time for Photographers: Anytime is a good time here, there is enough variety and different angles to be able to shoot all day long. Getting There: Driving Directions Take Hwy 96 east out of Carthage MO for 1 mile, you will see a lake on the right and Flyin’ W Convenience Store on the left.  You will then see an old car on a post on the left side of the road, turn left here on Rd 130 and follow the signs to Red Oak II. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Location Contact Information: Red Oak II County Loop 122, Kafir Rd Carthage, Missouri 64836 (417) 237-0808 lowelldavis@redoakii.com Links Red Oak II Website Red Oak II Facebook Page Lowell Davis Artist Nearest City or Town:  Carthage MO Red Oak II Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Paydown Mill The Paydown Grist Mill sitting near the Gasconade River on Mill Creek not far from Vienna, is one of mills that has an interesting past with the Civil War. According to records. many goods were supplied thru the general store at Paydown to the U.S. Government for troops in some of the northern states. The mill was commonly known as Pay Down during the time period dates back to 1826. Though out history several mills have occupied the site until the 1930’s Paydown was entire community during the 1800’s. The current mill sits on a limestone foundation, operated using a turbine, has clapboard siding, & is over two stories high. In 1860, an employee tried to commit suicide there, but did not complete the task until sometime latter. The original owner was Charles Lane, who began building the first mill on site, but sold to Peter Walter in 1829 before it was completed. Other owners were Thomas Kinsey, Rubin Terrill, & Daniel Boone Wherry, a descendant of legendary Daniel Boone after 1866, the Bray family took over. In 1886 & 1872, another mill was erected. In 1890’s the present mill was completed by C. E. Givens about a mile down from the other mill. It operated for about 30 years. What to Photograph The old Paydown Mill building and the Paydown Manor across the road and some additional old barns and out buildings.   Where it is: Paydown is located on the east bank of the Gasconade River at the mouth of Spring Creek, ten miles northeast of Vienna on MO hwy 42.  There are no signs or markers, however it plainly visible from the highway.   Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.     GPS: 38°13’44.207″ N 91°48’12.732″ W Cost: There is no fee for access to the Paydown Mill site, it is abandoned along the highway. Hours: There are no hours, this is an abandoned property along the side of the road. Facilities: There are no facilities. Location Contact Information: There is no contact information for this location. Paydowm Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Montauk Mill The grist mill was built in 1896 replacing an earlier mill built in 1870. It was rehabilitated in 1935 by Company 1770 of the Civilian Conservation Corps. It is a 2​1⁄2-story frame building with a multi-gable roof and stone foundation. It features a central tower-like extension above the second story roof. The Montauk mill is available for tours. The mill ceased operations in 1927.  The steel rollers were removed in 1942 for the war effort. The area around the mill became a state park in 1926 and quickly became one of Missouri’s most popular vacation spots known for fishing, camping, and canoeing. Montauk Mill stands today as a testament to the once-thriving community of Montauk. The mill was the last of four mills built to make use of the ideal waters of Montauk Spring. Much of the original machinery used to grind the grain is still intact. The Montauk Mill was posted to the National Register of Historic Places on June 27, 1985. Montauk State Park The valley surrounding the springs that form Current River attracted settlers in the early 1800s. Early residents came to the area from New York and named their first post office after Montauk in Suffolk County, Long Island. Because of its proximity to the springs and its abundant supply of water power, the village of Montauk proved to be an excellent spot for milling. Four mills were constructed to serve the community. The last one, a gristmill built in 1896, still stands today and retains much of its original a man stis on the bank of the river fishingmachinery. It is open seasonally for tours. The next big step in the park’s history was in 1926 when it became a Missouri state park. Members of the Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the amenities and structures in the park in the 1930s. Many of these structures still stand today, a testament to the craftsmanship of this era. Montauk State Park is best known for being one of the three “trout parks” in the Missouri state park system. Anglers wanting to try their luck for rainbow trout flock to the clear, spring waters and go away happy with their catch. The Current River is also known as one of the finest canoeing rivers in the Midwest. Canoe access is located just outside the park’s southeast border, making Montauk State Park the perfect place to stay during a river adventure. What to Photograph The old Montauk Mill,  the Montauk Fish Hatchery, and the Montauk State Park. Where it is: Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click here for larger map GPS: +37.45074, -91.68340 37°27’03” N, 91°41’00” W  Cost: There is no cost to enter the park. Hours: PARK HOURS Park Grounds: 24 hours a day Quiet Hours: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Late arrivals for lodging and camping should remain quiet during check in after 10 p.m. PARK OFFICE HOURS Summer Hours (On-Season)  March 1 through Oct. 31 – 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Sunday Winter Hours (Off-Season)  Nov. 1 through Feb. 28 – 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday (with the exception of state holidays) Facilities: The park’s store offers everything from last-minute items to the souvenirs of the long-anticipated vacation at Montauk State Park. Located in the Dorman L. Steelman Lodge, the store offers all essentials for a successful fishing trip –fishing supplies, including hand-tied flies made by local craftsmen, tackle, waders, fishing licenses and tags. For campers, the store offers snacks and groceries such as marshmallows, milk and bread, and camping supplies such as charcoal and cast-iron cookware. For those that want to remember their trip to the park, the store sells a variety of souvenirs and apparel such as sweatshirts and t-shirts. The lodge is a smoke-free facility. Wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) connections are now available at no charge in the Dorman L. Steelman Lodge. Wi-Fi has been added to meet the requests of state park users to stay connected. This free service is popular with regular visitors as well as those coming to the park for meetings or conferences. Guests must provide their own computers. The cabins, motel, dining lodge, store and snack bar are operated by Montauk Resorts, LLC, a Forever Resorts property. John Johnston, general manager, and his friendly team are ready to make your visit to Montauk State Park an enjoyable experience. For more information about the concession facilities, please visit their website or call 573-548-2434. Location Contact Information: ADDRESS 345 County Road 6670 Salem, MO 65560-9025 PHONE NUMBERS Park Office: (573) 548-2201 Lodging: (573) 548-2434 Store/Dining: (573) 548-2434 Nature Center: (573) 548-2225 Montauk Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Missouri State Penitentiary The Missouri State Penitentiary,  in Jefferson City, Missouri,  operated from 1836-2004.  Part of the Missouri Department of Corrections, it served as the state of Missouri’s primary maximum security institution. Before the prison closed in 2004, the Missouri State Penitentiary was the oldest operating penal facility west of the Mississippi—it was already 98 years old when Alcatraz opened in San Francisco. The prison’s often-inhumane conditions earned it the title of “bloodiest 47 acres in America” in a 1967 TIME Magazine article. Opened in 1836 Housed 5200 inmates at its peak, Once the largest prison in the U.S. Sonny Liston: Learned to box at MSP and went on to become Heavyweight Champion James Earl Ray: Escaped from MSP before assassinating Martin Luther King, Jr. 100 Years Older than Alcatraz Received its first inmate in 1836; the same year, month and day that the Battle of the Alamo was fought Oldest continually operating prison west of the Mississippi River Served Missouri for 168 years; from 1836-2004 40 inmates put to death in the gas chamber between 1937-1989 Bonnie Heady only woman to be executed in the gas chamber in a double execution alongside Carl Hall for the Greenlease killing Last execution at MSP carried out in 1989. Tiny Mercer put to death in Gas Chamber by lethal injection Admission & Hours The Missouri State Penitentiary is only accessible by taking a tour, they do have special photography tours.  Pricing varies by the tour and length, I did a private group photography tour that lasted 3 hours for a cost of $40 per person.  Click here for current tours and pricing information. Important Tour information No wheelchairs, walkers, or crutches. Many people have gone on the tour using a cane without problem. Since the property was built in 1836, it is not ADA accessible. Cameras are welcome. We have reasonably priced souvenirs. Most have been made by the inmates. Wear comfortable shoes. Sandals are not recommended. If raining, bring umbrellas. We keep you in the buildings longer and the prison takes on a whole different look when weather is gloomy and dark rather than bright and sunny. Dress for the weather. There is no heat or air conditioning in the prison. Everyone must stay with the group at all times. The exception is if some do not want to tour the gas chamber or the underground dungeon cells. No one is ever forced to go somewhere they choose not to go. Waiver and Release Liability form will be sent with your confirmation e-mail. We ask that you sign before the tour and hand it to the tour assistant before the tour starts. For those under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the Waiver and Release Liability form for the child. Without this signed release, the child will not be allowed on the tour. See descriptions for age requirements. * No one will be allowed entry without a paid ticket and a signed Waiver and Release Liability form. What to Photograph: You will be able to photograph inside and outside of the prison.  Inside the prison is quite dark and a tripod is recommended. Getting There: The prison and the tours are right in downtown Jefferson City MO, just a few blocks east of the capitol building at 115 Lafayette St. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Location Contact Information:  Missouri State Penitentiary 115 Lafayette St Jefferson City , MO 65101 Toll Free: 866.998.6998 Phone: 573.632.2820 Links http://www.missouripentours.com/ Nearest City or Town:  Jefferson City Missouri Missouri State Penitentiary Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Klepzig Mill Walter Klepzig Mill and Farm is a historic farm and sawmill and national historic district located in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways near Eminence Missouri. The district encompasses three contributing buildings, three contributing sites, and one contributing structure associated with an early-20th century Ozark farm and mill. It developed between about 1912 and 1936 and includes the mill (c. 1912) and its related hydraulic system (c. 1912-1935); a spring house and smokehouse (c. 1920-1925); foundations of a 1923 farmhouse and barn (c. 1920-1925); and two post-1934 chicken coops and a ruin of a post-1934 machine shed. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990 Along Rocky Creek is a small turbine mill built by Walter Klepzig in 1928 –hence its name, Klepzig Mill. Walter, son of a Prussian German immigrant, was a progressive thinker. He was the first in the neighborhood to introduce both barbed and woven fence wire and a refined breed of milk cow. He sawed logs into boards for his house and out-buildings, and routinely saved “good boards” for use in building coffins for his neighbors. He frequently ground corn free for neighbors “on starvation,” i.e. those who could ill afford to leave him the customary toll of grain. Klepzig Mill is a type of building referred to in the vernacular as a “sawmill house.” It was a building type that tended to replace log construction after the arrival of sawmills in a locale. A sawmill house could be erected quickly and by only one or two people. Instead of stud-wall framing, vertical planks were nailed to a hand-hewn sill at the bottom and a sawn two-by-four plate at the top. The resulting wall panels, fabricated flat on the ground, were then raised into place. Battens might then be added to cover the seams. Foundations were often piers of uncut and unmortared native stone. Klepzig Mill is not much to look at with its various accouterments and modifications– cement spillway, scrap metal hinge from the hood of a Model “A” Ford truck, old corrugated iron roof. Still, it is in a spectacular setting, surrounded by the rhyolite rock of the “shut in” canyon made by Rocky Creek. It is a lasting testament to the hardships of every day life in the Ozarks in a time not so long ago. What to Photograph The mill and outbuildings and Rocky Creek with some fantastic rock formations. Where it is: Klepzig Mill is located within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways which is the first national park area to protect a river system. The Current and Jacks Fork Rivers are two of the finest floating rivers you’ll find anywhere. Spring-fed, cold and clear they are a delight to canoe, swim, boat or fish. Besides these two famous rivers, the park is home to hundreds of freshwater springs, caves, trails and historic sites To reach Klepzig Mill take Highway H (east of Eminence and Winona) to Highway NN. You’ll pass the sign for Rocky Falls, this is a pleasant stop also. Turn left on County Road #522. This dirt road can be very muddy and is narrow, not recommended for large motorhomes or trailers. Klepzig Mill is less than a mile on the right. There is no sign or defined parking area, and it’s easy to miss in summer vegetation, so watch carefully. It is also possible to hike to Klepzig Mill from Rocky Falls along the Ozark Trail, or park at the end of the pavement on NN and walk up the dirt road. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. GPS: 37°7’35.73″ N 91°11’52.926″ W   Cost: There is no entrance fee at Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Hours: There are no hours, the location is accessible 24 hours a day. Facilities: There are no facilities at this location.   Location Contact Information: Mailing Address: Ozark National Scenic Riverways 404 Watercress Drive P.O. Box 490  Van Buren, MO 63965 Phone: (573) 323-4236 Fax 573-323-4140 Klepzig Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Jolly Mill Jolly Mill was built on Capps Creek at Jollification, Berwick Township, Newton County, Missouri, United States in 1848 by Thomas Isbell and his son John to serve as a whiskey distillery. Jolly Mill was named for the local Jolly family. The mill also served as a grist mill, and continued to operate in that capacity until 1975. The three-floor structure still retains the original hand-hewn and pegged framing timbers and limestone slab foundations. A village named Jollification quickly developed around the distillery/mill to serve as a rest stop and resupply point for wagon trains and stagecoaches. Because of new taxes on whiskey that owner George Isbell refused to pay, the distillery was closed in the 1870s. Isbell turned his attention to the milling of flour. The mill was purchased in 1983 by The Friends of Jolly Mill and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In recent years, under the care of The Friends of Jolly Mill, the mill has undergone somewhat of a renaissance. Mill restoration was completed in 1998 when the repaired water-powered machinery began grist milling demonstrations. The mill and surrounding land have been restored and converted into a park, with many period buildings moved in from other locations in an attempt to replicate the look and feel of the town of Jollification. Milling demonstrations are still put on at 1 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from May to October. Where it is: Jolly Mill Park is located southwest of Pierce City Missouri.  The park can be accessed from U.S. Highway 60 to the south on Wallaby Road, which is about 71/2 miles west of Monett. GPS: 36°53’49.05″ N 94°4’18.288″ W Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   Hours: Jolly Mill is open dawn to dusk, seven days a week. Cost: Entrance fee to the park is $5 per car.   Location Contact Information: 11262 Jolly Mill Lane Pierce City, MO 65723 417-476-5421   Facilities: The area is a family friendly park with playground equipment, picnic areas, and modern restrooms. No pets are allowed in the park.  Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Hodgson Mill Hodgson-Aid Mill, also known as Hodgson Water Mill and Aid-Hodgson Mill, is a historic grist mill located on Bryant Creek near Sycamore, Ozark County, Missouri. It was constructed around 1897, and is a 3 1/2-story, timber frame mill building covered with red-painted weatherboards. Associated with the mill are the man-made mill pond and the limestone barrel vault constructed at the base of the cliff where Hodgson Spring discharges. The mill has not been in operation since 1976. It is privately owned and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. History The area around Hodgson-Aid Mill had been settled prior to the Civil War; Ozark County, Missouri was organized in 1841, and until 1857, included parts of Howell and Douglas County. The Hodgson-Aid Water Mill is at least the second mill to be located on the Hodgson Mill Spring. In the early 1860s, William Holeman settled on Bryant Creek and constructed a water mill on or near the site of the Hodgson-Aid Mill. This mill was closed during the Civil War. It is unclear whether Holeman reopened this original mill, or whether he had to construct a new mill after the war. It is reported that Holeman’s mill was powered by a vertical wood turbine. Holeman operated the mill until his death in 1879. In 1884, Alva Hodgson and his mother, Mary Elizabeth Hodgson, purchased the mill from Manuel and Elizabeth Smith, the parents of Alva’s future wife, Mary Elizabeth Smith Hodgson, for $500.00. Alva Hodgson continued to operate Holeman’s existing mill, but made plans to construct a state-of-the-art mill capable of producing new white or “patent” flour, a higher quality flour than had previously been produced, made possible by the invention of the “middlings purifier” around 1870. Hodgson used this new milling machinery, including roller mills, and also installed two vertical steel water turbines, known as “Leffel turbines” or now as Francis Turbines. The mill building also housed a general store and the Sycamore post office, sawmill, and cotton gin. Like other rural gristmills, the mill was likely an economic hub of the community. Farmers visited the mill to have their grain (corn and wheat) to be ground into flour and meal, and were able to buy and sell their crops, as well as other goods and services. The store “not only sold necessities – groceries, hardware, and dry goods – it also bought every valuable commodity produced in the area.” Construction of the new mill was completed around 1897; a notice that appeared in the local newspaper on November 25, 1897 noted that “Mr. Hodgson is making a good grade of flour on his new roller mill.” Records show that at this time, Alva Hodgson’s brother, George, bought 1/3 interest in the mill. In 1901, Alva Hodgson sold his brother the remaining 2/3 interest, and George Hodgson became sole proprietor. Alva Hodgson went on to build nearby Dawt Mill, completed in 1909, as well as a cotton gin in Harrison Arkansas. He returned to Hodgson Mill to work with his brother and improve the mill; he installed a dynamo to generate electricity to light the mill, and imported and installed two millstones, or buhrstones from the French Pyrenees for stone-grinding flour. Despite failing vision, Alva helped run the mill until his death in 1921. George Hodgson then continued to operate the mill until his death in 1927. Ownership of the mill passed to Fred O. Foster from 1927-1934. In 1934, the mill was purchased by businessman Charles Theodore Aid. The mill stayed in the ownership of the Aid family until 1998 and so became known locally as the Hodgson-Aid Mill, or Aid-Hodgson Mill. The mill was leased and operated intermittently from 1934-1949. In 1949 Fred Leach, an experienced miller, assumed the lease and both operated the mill and began marketing products through wholesalers, mostly whole grain flour and corn meal. He also provided picnic tables, campsites, and operated a gift shop for visitors to the mill. Leach increased production of meal and flour to as much as 2,000 pounds a day. From 1963 to 1969, the Harold Stott family took over operation of the mill. They expanded the line of products to include “white and yellow cornmeal, whole wheat cereal, and bran, whole wheat, unbleached, rye and pancake flours.” In 1969, Ken and Teena Harrington, avid antiquers visiting the area, stumbled on the property. They took over the lease, and initially began selling antiques and operating canoe rentals for the nearby Bryant River They also offered flour and products in their store, and as demand grew; they incorporated the company as Hodgson Mill Inc, and sold products to wholesalers and grocers. When Ken took up the lease in 1969, the mill was grinding only a couple of hundred pounds of flour a day. By 1973, sales had grown 500 percent, and the old mill was straining under the maximum of 1 million pounds of wheat and corn a year. The Harringtons installed two more buhrstones to keep up with demand, and also acquired a site in the nearby Gainesville Missouri industrial park to construct a modern production facility. Production of Hodgson Mill Inc. products moved to the Gainesville location in 1976. No large-scale production has taken place at the Hodgson-Aid Mill since, and the mill has been intermittently operated primarily as a tourist attraction. At some point ca. 1970’s a concrete block building was built near the mill building. The Hodgson-Aid Mill suffered some flood damage in 1982, when water rose into the main milling room. Between 1985 and 1993, Herbert Smith (great-nephew of Alva Hodgson) and his wife leased the mill and provided tours, a store, resort cabins and campground. The mill was sold to Hank and Jean Macler, who raised money in the community to fund restoration efforts. They stabilized the foundation, used Amish craftspeople to repair flood damage, installed facilities to bottle spring water and registered the Hodgson-Aid Mill in the National Register of Historic Places. In 2011, the mill was sold to John and Gwen Deakle, experienced preservationists.   What to Photograph The historic mill and property with a mill pond and small waterfall. Where it is: From Mo 160 0.5 miles east of Gainesville take Mo 181 north for about 15 miles give or take, to the mill on the left side of Mo 181 about 4 mlies past Zanoni. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   GPS: 36°42’34.228″ N 92°15’59.712″ W Cost: There is no cost to visit this location Hours: There are no hours for the location. Facilities: There are no public facilities at the mill.  The nearest town is Dora Mo. Location Contact Information: Hwy 181 Ozark County, Dora, Missouri 65637 Phone (417) 261-2556 Hodgson Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Gay Parita Sinclair – Paris Springs Junction The Gay Parita Service Station is located on Route 66 in the now Ghost Town of Paris Springs Junction. Gay and Fred Mason built the cobblestone garage in the 1920’s, which was followed by a Sinclair Gas Station, and then the Gay Parita store and restaurant across the street. The station burned down in 1955 and shortly after Route 66 was realigned and bypassed Paris Springs. The property was purchased by Gary Turner who rebuilt the gas station recreating a 1930 gas station, except that it did not sell gas or anything else for that matter. Gary spent his days welcoming visitors on Route 66 until his death in 2015. Gary’s Daughter Barbara has taken over the station and still greeting visitors. What to Photograph The restored gas station, old cars and trucks and more route 66 memorabilia than you can imagine. Where it is: located 25 miles west of Springfield, MO on Historic Route 66. (3 miles west of Halltown on Old 66) Directions: I-44 westbound exit 57 onto Hwy 96 (If eastbound, take exit 58 and double-back to exit 57). Drive west two miles on Hwy 96. Turn right onto Hwy 266, then quickly turn left to continue driving west (This is old, unmarked Route 66). Drive a half-mile. You’ll see the gas station on the right. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   GPS: 37°11’39.972″ N 93°40’45.576″ W Hours: There are no established hours, however they are open most days, when they are closed the gate is locked. Cost: There is no cost to visit, donations are accepted. Location Contact Information:  Contact 21118 Old 66, Ash Grove, MO 65604-7107 Contact information * we will respond with in 24hr * 1-843-324-6661 1-417-459-0798 smilest@swbell.net   Gay Parita Sinclair – Paris Springs Junction Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Falling Spring Mill The spring, known as Falling Spring because it pours out of the rock as a small waterfall, provided power for two mills. The second mill, which still stands, was built between 1927 and 1929, Falling Spring Mill, was used to grind corn for feed, saw out shingles, saw firewood, and generate electricity on the site. This mill had a metal wheel, the original structure had a wooden wheel.  The mill was first constructed of timer, then later enclosed with sawboard siding.  The mill’s present overshot wheel came from Johnson Spring, located approximately three miles down Hurricane Creek from Falling Spring. Also located on the site is a log cabin over 100 years old.  This cabin is the first of four houses built near this site. Constructed with half-dovetail notches at the corners, this helps to shed water away from the cabin, and may be one reason why it still stands today. The Thomas Brown Cabin is located at the Falling Springs Mill in the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri. Thomas and Jane Brown homesteaded the Falling Spring Area in 1851. They settled in a land which looked very similar to their homeland, Tennessee. The area around Falling Spring provided for their basic needs – water for livestock and personal use, and trees from which to build a cabin. What to Photograph The spring and surrounding pond with the waterfall, the 100 year old Falling Springs Mill, and the log cabin. Where it is: From Winona: From US Hwy 60, travel South on MO Hwy 19 approx. 9.6 miles. Turn Left/East onto FR#3170. This buy clonazepam with no prescription road immediately splits; follow FR#3164 to your Left. Keep right at an intersection at approx 2 miles, then Falling Spring will be on your right at approx. 2.3. From Alton: Travel North on MO Hwy 19 approx. 16.3 miles. Turn Right/East onto FR#3170. This road immediately splits; follow FR#3164 to your Left. Keep right at an intersection at approx 2 miles, then Falling Spring will be on your right at approx. 2.3. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. GPS: 36°52’3.485″ N 91°17’41.448″ W Cost: There are no fees to enter the park. Hours: The Falling Springs Picnic area is open at all times Facilities: There are picnic tables and pit toilets, there is no running water. Location Contact Information: Eleven Point Ranger District District Ranger: Matt Dillon Address: # 4 Confederate Ridge Road Doniphan, MO 63935 Phone: (573) 996-2153 FAX: (573) 996-7745 Office Hours: M-F: 8:00am – 4:30pm Falling Springs Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Dillard Mill Dillard Mill is one of Missouri’s best-preserved examples of a water-powered gristmill. Sitting along the clear-flowing Ozark stream, Huzzah Creek, the red mill is nestled among trees and near water cascading over a rock dam, creating a picturesque setting. Dillard Mill is the second mill structure at this site. Wisdom’s Mill, the first mill built here, was constructed in the 1850s. A rock wall along the Huzzah Creek was blasted open allowing the increased water flow to the mill needed for its operation. As a result, Huzzah Creek changed its channel. Joseph Dillard Cottrell and his brother, James, later owned Wisdom’s Mill from 1881 to 1889 – years that brought many changes to the area. During the Cottrells’ ownership of the mill, the small community grew with the establishment of a post office in 1887. It was also during this time that the community was named Dillard after Joseph Dillard Cottrell. Today, the restored mill contains most of its original machinery. Two of the three steel roller mills, however, were donated for scrap metal during World War II. Visitors can see the remaining machinery come to life during a tour of the mill. With the turn of a wheel, the mill begins to operate as it did years ago, grinding grain into flour. The sound of the water gushing over the dam outside the mill is replaced with the sounds of the belts and rollers turning. Tours of the mill are given year-round, although days and times vary by season. In 1974, the L-A-D Foundation of St. Louis, a non-profit organization, bought the property. In 1975, the foundation leased the mill and surrounding property to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to operate as a state historic site. Also on the property is a building that once housed a general store owned by Adam Wilhite. Dillard Mill What to Photograph The historic mill, the mill pond, the dam and waterfall as well as the Adam Wilhite General Store. Where it is: One mile south of Dillard off Highway 49 in Crawford County, just outside of Davisville.   Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click here for large Map GPS: 37°43’3.185″ N 91°12’23.646″ W   Cost: There is no fee for access to the Dillard Mill State Historic Site. Hours: PARK HOURS HISTORIC SITE GROUNDS: May through October 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily November through April 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s days DILLARD MILL HOURS Tours: May through October 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. daily November through April 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday through Sunday Tours on Monday and Tuesday by prior appointment only HISTORIC SITE OFFICE HOURS Historic Site Office Hours May through October 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily November through April 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday; closed Monday and Tuesday Facilities: The historic site has picnic areas, restrooms and hiking trails. Five picnic tables with pedestal grills are located at the parking lot area, where there is also a covered, accessible shelter. There is a playground located in the picnic area. Location Contact Information: ADDRESS 142 Dillard Mill Road Davisville, MO 65456-4014 PHONE NUMBER Park Office: (573) 244-3120 Dillard Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Bollinger Mill State Historic Site After receiving a Spanish land grant, George Frederick Bollinger led a group of families from North Carolina to this area and in 1800 began construction of a mill and dam on the Whitewater River. The mill quickly became successful and by the 1820s, a road linked Bollinger Mill with surrounding communities. Bollinger himself became well known, entered politics, and served as a senator in Missouri’s first general assembly. mill machinery inside the millThe mill and dam, originally constructed from logs, were rebuilt in stone in 1825 and this limestone foundation and dam are still visible today. When Bollinger died in 1842, his daughter, Sarah Daugherty, and her two sons continued to operate the popular mill. During the Civil War, Union forces burned the mill to prevent the passing of flour and meal into rebel hands. Only the stone foundation survived. After the war, the family sold the mill and 640 acres to Solomon R. Burford, who rebuilt the mill of brick upon the original stone foundation. The present-day, four-story stone and brick mill was completed in 1867 and Burford’s initials are still visible on the wall inside the front door. It was probably at this time that the method of powering the mill was changed from a water wheel to a more efficient, water-driven turbine. It was also at this time that the town of Burfordville came into existence. Construction of a covered bridge, begun before the war, was completed in 1868 and linked Burfordville to the main road. Made from nearby yellow poplar trees, the bridge was built by Joseph Lansmon, a well-known builder from Cape Girardeau. He used a Howe truss design, wherein diagonal wooden compression members are used with vertical iron rods in tension to form trusses. Historical records show that there was a toll house on the east end of the 140-foot-long bridge. several vintage old cars parked in front of the millFrom 1897 to 1953, the mill was owned by the Cape County Milling Co. After the milling company went out of business in 1953, the mill was sold to the Vandivort family, relatives of George F. Bollinger. The Vandivorts, interested in seeing the mill preserved, donated it to the Cape Girardeau County Historical Society in 1961, who in turn donated it to the state in 1967. That same year, the Missouri legislature authorized the state park system to maintain all four of Missouri’s remaining covered bridges.   Burfordville Covered Bridge is the oldest remaining covered bridge in Missouri. Joseph Lansmon began its construction in 1858, but it is unclear if the bridge was completed before or after the Civil War. The bridge was not mentioned in St. Louis newspaper accounts of the 1861 burning of Bollinger Mill, located next to the bridge. After the Civil War, the bridge became a vital link, especially to farmers driving wagonloads of grain destined for the mill. The bridge exhibits Howe-truss construction, named for William Howe, who patented the design in 1840. The essential feature of the design was its use of vertical iron rods to draw the diagonal wooden members tight against the top and bottom of the truss. The Howe-truss span was built mainly of yellow poplar. Burfordville Covered Bridge, which spans the Whitewater River, is 140 feet long and has a clearance 14 feet high and 12 feet wide. The road going through the bridge was part of the toll-road system between Burfordville, Jackson and Cape Girardeau. At that time, toll roads and bridges were commonly operated as private businesses. Tolls were charged until 1906 when local farmers, tired of waiting for the courts to abolish the tolls, broke down the gates and used the roads without paying. Although there were many advantages to the shelter provided by the roof and sides, the main purpose behind covering the bridges was to protect the intricate structural network of iron and timber trusses from the weather. The coverings also added strength, which reduced sagging and listing. Riders in uncovered buggies and carriages often used the bridges as shelters from wind, snow and rain. What to Photograph The historic mill, the dam on Whitewater River, and the Burfordville Covered Bridge. Where it is: Directions: From the intersection of US-61 and MO-34 (south of downtown) in Jackson take MO-34 west approximately 7 miles to County Road 360. Take a left and go south on County Road 360 approximately 2 mile to Bollinger Mill Road. Turn left on Bollinger Mill Road and proceed to the site. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   GPS: 37°22’5.867″ N 89°48’10.865″ W Cost: There is no fee for access to the Bollinger Mill State Historic Site. Hours: PARK HOURS Historic Site Grounds: Sunrise to sunset, year-round (except New Year’s, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas days) BOLLINGER MILL HOURS Tours: Tours are given on demand. Summer Hours (On-Season) March 15 through Nov. 15 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday (last tour begins at 3:30 p.m.) Noon – 4 p.m., Sunday (last tour begins at 3:30 p.m.) Winter Hours (Off-Season) Nov. 16 through March 14 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday and Thursday through Saturday (last tour begins at 3:30 p.m.) Noon – 4 p.m. Sunday (last tour begins at 3:30 p.m.) No tours are offered on Tuesday or Wednesday. The historic site is closed New Year’s, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas days. HISTORIC SITE OFFICE HOURS 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, year-round Facilities: Presently, there are two accessible picnic tables. Picnic sites are accessed over natural turf. The vault toilet is accessible via a concrete ramp and there is an accessible parking space. An accessible drinking fountain is along a concrete path near the parking space and vault toilet. Location Contact Information: Bollinger Mill State Historic Site 113 Bollinger Mill Road Burfordville, Missouri 573-243-4591   Bollinger Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
  Update Bob Mullen passed away in March of 2020 and all of the memorabilia was auctioned. Bob’s Gasoline Alley The largest collection of Historic Route 66 gasoline memorabilia in the mid-west was started in 1995 by owner Bob Mullen and his wife Darlene both lovers of memorabilia from the 50’s/60’s era. Bob’s love and fascination for the old highway Route 66 started in his youth. Living next to the highway he enjoyed sitting on his front porch watching traffic going up and down the highway, wondering where they were all going in such a big hurry. What to Photograph Thousands of pieces of gas station memorabilia and signs. Where it is: Bob’s Gasoline Alley is just off old Route 66 just West of Cuba Missouri. I-44 to exit 203, head southeast on Route 66 a little over a mile, turn left on Beamer Lane, on left before interstate overpass. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. GPS: 38°2’49.955″ N 91°27’38.358″ W Hours: Bob’s Gasoline Alley does have established hours, but the grounds are open to visitors.  By appointment, call Bob (573) 885-3637. Cost: There is no cost to visit, donations are accepted. Bob charges a small fee to open the buildings when he is available.  The facilities are available to rent for party’s and events. Location Contact Information: Bob Mullen 822 Beamer Ln Cuba, Missouri 65453 (573) 885-3637   Bob’s Gasoline Alley Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery   More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State     All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...
Alley Spring Mill The Alley Community… A Gathering Place Alley was home, farm, and school for people who lived here a century ago. Dances, baseball games, and roller skating were all part of Alley’s busier days. John Knotts purchased the 80 acre site in 1902 and diversified the enterprises to include a well-stocked store and blacksmith shop. A mill was vital to community life, where grain was ground to provide the daily bread. The present building was constructed during 1893-1894 by George Washington McCaskill as a merchant mill. It was larger than most mills in the Jacks Fork area and replaced an earlier mill on this same site that was built by 1868. Originally unpainted, it was first painted white with green trim, then later the famous red color associated with Alley Mill today. A TOUR OF THE MILL The Back Porch Located under the back porch is the turbine pit. In it sat a thirty five inch Leffel turbine. Belts from the turbine brought power into the basement. A control wheel on the porch allowed the miller to control how much water entered the turbine and thereby control its speed. This ability to control the speed was one of the innovations that made turbines preferable to the old water wheels. Basement This is where all power was transmitted to the machinery. Elevators and belts operated from a driveshaft running the length of the building. This section of the mill is not open for public visits. First Floor Whole grain (corn or wheat) entered the mill here. The grain was put into bins, then elevated to chutes that were connected to milling machines. These are the large iron and wood machines near the back of the room. Here the grain was ground, picked up in another elevator, taken back up and dropped down into the next machine. This process allowed the grain to be ground repeatedly to a fine flour suitable for baking. Bins for storage were also located on this floor, as well as the miller’s office. Second Floor Sifting was the main activity here. The large cube shaped machine was called a swing sifter. It shook the ground grain through a series of sieves to achieve a uniform consistency. The rectangular machines were an earlier way to do the same thing. In these machines, flour was filtered or sifted through silk. The Attic Belts that operated the second floor machines were located here. The attic is not restored and is not open for public visits. Alley Mill is an example of over 100 historic structures found within Ozark National Riverways. By protecting this landmark, we are preserving the heritage of all Americans. Please help by respecting all historic and archeological artifacts in the park. It is illegal to remove artifacts, including arrowheads, from Park Service or other Federal lands. It is also disrespectful to the memories of those who went before us. Please leave them for the next person to enjoy. Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first national park area to protect a river system. The Current and Jacks Fork Rivers are two of the finest floating rivers you’ll find anywhere. Spring-fed, cold and clear they are a delight to canoe, swim, boat or fish. Besides these two famous rivers, the park is home to hundreds of freshwater springs, caves, trails and historic sites such as Alley Mill. What to Photograph The Alley Mill was built in 1894. Much of the original milling equipment is still in place. Exhibits explain the life and culture of the Ozarks. Storeys Creek One Room Schoolhouse Located within walking distance of Alley Mill, six miles west of Eminence, Missouri on State Route 106. Open on summer weekends. Grounds always open, but access into the school is limited. Where it is: Alley Mill is located six miles west of Eminence, Mo on State Route 106 Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. GPS: Coordinates 37°9′15″N 91°26′31″W Cost: There are no fees to enter the park. Hours: The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is open year around, the grounds of the mill are open 24 hours a day.  Alley Mill and General Store are open daily from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. Alley Spring Visitor Information Center is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Alley Spring campground is open daily year-round. Campers only from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Location Contact Information: Ozark National Scenic Riverways Mailing Address: P.O. Box 490 Van Buren, MO 63965 Physical Address 404 Watercress Drive Van Buren, MO 63965 Phone: (573) 323-4236 Links Ozark National Scenic Riverways Alley Springs Mill Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery More Photographic Destinations in Missouri: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]Read more...

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