Thursday, December 30, 2021

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Challenges, Adventures and Highlights of 2021

Weather Issues mostly define the past year


Living in the Great Basin Desert of Nevada and only an hour drive from East Central California this past year's weather has been a big issue.  The National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) has listed 2021 as the driest year over the past 127 years.


 

The winter was exceptionally mild and dry which contributed to less snow-pack.  In the past years January was my best month for catching a snow covered landscape. 

 


 
The lack of adequate moisture in winter and early spring left the desert floors dry.  My favorite areas for collecting wildflower photographs were showing mostly dry vegetation.  
 


The water level at Mono Lake, California was much lower due to extreme drought conditions.  

 
This summer season was one of the worse for wildfires and most were caused from dry lightning.  The smoke drifted for hundreds of miles and it was extremely unhealthy to be outdoors. 



 
 On a positive note, we were treated to a partial lunar eclipse in the early morning hours of August 28th.  The weather seemed to cooperate with clear skies for this event. 



 
The lack of moisture not only effects the desert flora, it also impacts the color changes of foliage in autumn.  A day trip to Virginia Lake in Mono County, California found that most of the aspens had either dropped their leaves or the colors were not as vibrant.

 

 
 With the arrival of late autumn, the weather has started to producing more moisture with rain and even snow.  
 


 
Along with all the weather changes Covid-19 was still a huge issue and my personal goal in life has been to stay as healthy as possible.  I am looking forward to reaching new grounds in my photo-adventures and possibly trying some different avenues for expression.    




 


Sign up and follow my blog to see where my next photo-adventure will be!


Photography places me in the moment where I can share that space in time. It becomes a life story as represented by my interaction with the scene. The happiness and beauty or the sorrow and strife; how I focus leaves a lasting impression that might touch the viewer on a spiritual level.


 "Reflecting Nature's Artistry" 




Many of these images are available on my website:

 http://www.bonnierannald.com/ 

For custom matted and framed images:
Off The Wall


No images on this blog are within Public Domain or are available for free download. 

 All rights reserved, world-wide and images protected by Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). All photography, graphics, text, design, and content is copyrighted by Bonnie Rannald and should not be copied, down-loaded, transferred and re-created in any way without the express consent, in writing to Bonnie Rannald. For information on Bonnie Rannald licensed, right-managed images, please submit a written request.









Monday, November 12, 2018

Exploring the Chemung Mine and Mill


Abandoned but not forgotten, and maybe even haunted!  

 
My first impression when I drove up to the Chemung Mill and Mine, was I at the right place or was this a huge barn?  There were no markers or information posts.  Checking the GPS and it did indicate that I had arrived at Chemung.  
 
 
Chemung Mine and Mill, California


 
The Chemung Mine was established around 1909 by Steve Kavanaugh when he was hired to dig for a gold vein.  It was named after his hometown in Illinois. 
 
 
South entrance to Chemung Mine and Mill


 
Weathered structures of buildings with interesting shapes stood tall against the rugged terrain.  
 
 
Buildings with interesting shapes at Chemung Mine and Mill


 
Following a trail back toward the south entrance, a panoramic view of most of the buildings came into sight.  
 
 
Walking a path to the front of Chemung Mine


 
The Chemung Mine was torn down and rebuilt 3 times.  
 
 
 
Buildings weathering the elements at Chemung Mine


 
Today, most of the buildings are the state of ill repair, due either to the harsh desert elements or acts of vandalism. 
 
 
Buildings at Chemung Mine in various shapes of disrepair


 
A large drum next to the road was showing the weathering from a harsh life in the high desert.  
 
 
Large drum and tin clad shack, Chemung Mine


 
My caution of the dangers in abandoned buildings was overcome by my curiosity to see what lies within. An electrical wire still dangles from the side of a structure; I’ve got to get a closer view. 
 
 
Front view Chemung Mine and Mill


 
At the opening and overhead, I see massive beams supporting huge metal wheels.  To the right is a cement tank and a white powdery substance covers most of the floor.  
 
 
Inside view of Chemung Mill


 
Hoping there are no earthquakes in the area, I continue walking further inside.
 
 
Exploring inside the Chemung Mill, Bonnie Rannald Photography


 
I have since learned that the white powder could be a form of lime used for altering pH during gold extraction.  However, I did keep a safe distance since I know that cyanide was also used in the mining of gold. 


The afternoon breeze caused the  tin siding on an adjacent building to rattle; I was getting an eerie feeling.  Time to get back in the open!   
 
 
Looking inside the Chemung Mill



The Chemung Mine had at one time been a good producer of gold, however, the operation was constantly plagued by legal issues.  
 
 
Overhead Drums and Pulleys, Chemung Mine


 
As I stood at the back entrance to the mill with an open mine shaft to the right, I was thinking of going inside for a closer look.  However, for some reason, I turned and walked back down the rocky trail.  Now I wonder if the mine is haunted and did my instinct keep me from danger?  There is a rumor that Kavanaugh, the mine’s founder was thrown into a mine shaft for cheating his employees.  
 
 
Photographer Bonnie Rannald at Chemung Mine


 
The day was growing long and it was time to make my departure.  I do hope to return again for more photo-exploring and maybe get a winter view of the Chemung Mine and Mill. 
 
 
North View, Chemung Mine and Mill



What an exciting and interesting photo-adventure this day has been.  I love it when I am drawn to an area and not knowing what to expect I get treated to new experiences. 

Sign up and follow my blog to see where my next photo-adventure will be!


Photography places me in the moment where I can share that moment in time. It becomes a life story as represented by my interaction with the scene. The happiness and beauty or the sorrow and strife; how I focus leaves a lasting impression that might touch the viewer on a spiritual level.


 "Reflecting Nature's Artistry" 




Many of these images are available on my website:

 http://www.bonnierannald.com/ 

For custom matted and framed images:
Off The Wall


No images on this blog are within Public Domain or are available for free download. 

 All rights reserved, world-wide and images protected by Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). All photography, graphics, text, design, and content is copyrighted by Bonnie Rannald and should not be copied, down-loaded, transferred and re-created in any way without the express consent, in writing to Bonnie Rannald. For information on Bonnie Rannald licensed, right-managed images, please submit a written request.









Thursday, November 8, 2018

Autumn Photo-adventures, Chemung Mine and Masonic Ghost Town


 Ghost Towns and Abandoned Mines in the rugged backcountry
 

With the feel of autumn in the air, it’s always fun to spend some time in the higher elevations.  After hearing about the abandoned Chemung Mine near Bridgeport, California I planned a day trip for some photo-adventures.  Checking on the Internet, I also learned of the Masonic Ghost Town that was just three miles past the Chemung Mine.  


Masonic Ghost Town near Bridgeport, California


To arrive at these locations, I took the Mason Road which is just past the Bridgeport Reservoir.  Starting out, the scenic dirt road was wide and fairly well maintained.   


Mason Road to Chemung Mine and Masonic Ghost Town


Arriving at the Chemung Mine, the day was still young so I decided to go on to the Masonic Ghost Town.  


Mason Road from Chemung Mine


Up ahead, the road was becoming narrower and did not appear to be maintained. I was not too concerned since I was in a 4-wheel drive truck with aggressive tires.  Stands of aspen trees just  turning to fall colors accented the rugged landscape.  


Aspens along Mason Road


Just before reaching the Masonic Ghost Town I decided go and check out the road on foot.  It’s best to be cautious and not get stuck far from civilization!  


Mason Road to Masonic Ghost Town


When gold was discovered near this area, the town was founded in 1862 by the Freemasons, therefore giving it the name of Masonic. At one time, the town had 3 levels:  the Upper Town of Lorena housed the mine offices and a post office; Middle Town was the largest with a hotel, general store, stage station, school and post office; and Lower Town was anchored by the Pittsburg-Liberty Mill.  


Masonic Ghost town


On this day in 2018, not many of the structures were still standing--either due to acts of nature or vandalism. 

What caught my eye was the workmanship on the rock walls and how the structures were built into the rock formations.   


Masonic Ghost Town


 
The remains of a stone house left its legacy against the weathering of nature. 


Stone building, Masonic Ghost Town


 
To the left I saw a metal plaque on an outcropping of rocks.  


Masonic Plaque, Masonic Ghost Town


 
On closer observation, the plaque told the legacy of Masonic. 


Masonic Plaque, Masonic Ghost Town


As my eyes wandered across to the west, I noticed what appeared to be an aerial tramway.  I have since read that the tramway was used to transport ore from the mines in Lower Town.  And this structure deserves a repeat visit on another trip for a closer view!


Aerial Tramway, Masonic Ghost Town


At this time, I decided to end my photo-exploring at Masonic and return to the Chemung Mine, which I will cover in the next post.  So check back and see where my adventures will go. 


Mason Road to Chemung Mine




If you found this post interesting check back often where I will focus on the story behind the image or give tips on my ventures as a nature photographer.

Your comments are always welcome and I will reply back ASAP.


Sign up and follow my blog to see where my next photo-adventure will be!


    Photography places me in the moment where I can share that moment in time. It becomes a life story as represented by my interaction with the scene. The happiness and beauty or the sorrow and strife; how I focus leaves a lasting impression that might touch the viewer on a spiritual level.


 "Reflecting Nature's Artistry" 


Many of these images are available on my website:

 http://www.bonnierannald.com/ 


For custom matted and framed images:
Off The Wall



No images on this blog are within Public Domain and are available for free download. 

 All rights reserved, world-wide and images protected by Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). All photography, graphics, text, design, and content is copyrighted by Bonnie Rannald and should not be copied, down-loaded, transferred and re-created in any way without the express consent, in writing to Bonnie Rannald. For information on Bonnie Rannald licensed, right-managed images, please submit a written request.








Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Thirteen Spooky Places for Halloween Trick or Treat


My favorite places that give me a fright!
 

With Halloween fast approaching, I thought it would be fun to list 13 of the spookiest places where I have been for photos.   


 
Spooky Places Countdown #13 Deadman's Creek. 



Deadman's Creek, California


 How did such a serene place get this spooky name?  Back in 1861 two prospectors went searching for a gold vein.  The burned and headless body of the one partner, Robert Hume was discovered in a shallow grave near the creek and later his head was found floating in the stream.  When questioned, his partner blamed the death on an Indian attack but he then disappeared before he was arrested! 

 

Spooky Places Countdown #12 Convict Lake


Convict Lake, California


How would a pristine lake clear as glass and set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada get such an ominous name? In 1871 a bunch of escaped convicts held up at this lake; there was a shootout with the local posse and two of the members were killed.  On late fall afternoons; listen quietly and the sound of bullets may be heard echoing through the canyons. 



Spooky Places Countdown #11 Death Valley


Death Valley, California


In this land of extreme contrast, a wrong turn could become fatal.  One of the hottest places on Earth with a below-sea-level basin of salt flats as far as the eye can see.  Death Valley was named by gold prospectors in 1849 when they traveled across the valley and many perished in the attempt.  

 

Spooky Places Countdown #10 Rhyolite, Nevada  


Rhyolite Ghost Town, Nevada

 

Nevada’s ghost town near Death Valley was a short-lived success story.  When its gold mines played out in 1909 so did the town.  On a full moon night, looking through the remaining structures, you can feel the spirits of the old west, and maybe catch a glimpse of some spirits who refuse to move on. 

 

Spooky Places Countdown #9 Spring Mountain Ranch State Park 


Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, Nevada


The ranch house seems a peaceful place to visit during the day.  But beware on those long, dark winter nights when drawers rattle and doors slam and nobody is there except for a lonely ranger. This working cattle ranch was owned by the famed German actress Vera Krupp of Krupp diamond fame and she still protects her legacy from unwanted intruders. 

 

Spooky Places Countdown #8  Bodie Ghost Town State Park, California


Bodie Ghost Town State Park, California


Bodie State Historic Park is a genuine California gold-mining ghost town where visitors can walk the deserted streets that once housed 10,000 residents.  However beware and take only memories or the Bodie Curse will get you! Many an unfortunate person has been known to return even the smallest pebble. For you see, Waterman Bodie for whom the town was named, keeps a close watch over anyone tempted to collect any souvenirs not for sale in the gift shop.  

 

Spooky Places Countdown #7  Chemung Mine, California


Chemung Mine, California


Founded in 1906, the Chemung Mine was a good producer of gold, however legal issues were a constant problem.  It was torn down and rebuilt 3 times and then abandoned by 1939.  A warning to all visitors--stay away on Saturdays, especially at night because that is when the ghosts of dead miners come out.  There are reports of unfortunate campers who did not head this warning never to be seen again

 

Spooky Places Countdown #6  Stokes Castle, Austin, Nevada 



Stokes Castle, Austin, Nevada

 
Who would ever think a three-story stone castle would be built out in the lonely desert of Central Nevada?  Anson Phelps Stokes was a mine developer, railroad magnate and banker that designed his1897 castle after visiting Italy.  Built by the sweat and brawn of local workers with large pieces of native granite, it was only used as a summer home by Stokes for a short time.  Sitting abandoned today, but by the light of the moon you might catch a glimpse of the workers toiling away.   

 

Spooky Places Countdown #5    Goldfield, Nevada



Goldfield, Nevada


Boarded up buildings are desolate reminders at Nevada’s most haunted ghost town.  The boomtown that once housed 30,000 residents and produced $11million in gold was short lived when the veins ran shallow.  On a dark, snowy day there’s a shiver up your back, could it be the wind or a spirit coming to indulge at the longest bar in the history of mining towns?

 

Spooky Places Countdown #4    Delamar, Nevada


Delamar Ghost Town, Nevada


A lonely arch seems  welcoming to the ghost town of Delamar.  And in the late 1800’s, the mines produced $13.5 million in gold. However, the town had a dark side, when the gold was crushed it created a fine dust from the quartzite which gave the miners silicosis.  Thus the town became known as the “Widowmaker”! 

 

Spooky Places Countdown #3   Aurora, Nevada    


Aurora Ghost Town, Nevada


The mining town of Aurora, Nevada was founded in 1860 and named for Aurora, the goddess of dawn.  In it’s heyday, the population had grown to 10,000 and produced  $27 million worth of gold by 1869.  Today, much of the town has been destroyed by vandals except for the graveyard which is protected by many a long departed spirit.

 

Spooky Places Countdown #2  Pioche, Nevada   


Pioche, Nevada

 In the 1860’s the mining town of Pioche had a reputation for being the baddest town in the west, badder than Tombstone or even Dodge City!  The “Hanging Tree” still stands and can be seen silhouetted against a full moon.  

 


Spooky Places Countdown #1   Spooky Rock Outcropping, Nevada  


Spooky Rock Outcropping, Nevada


Spooky Rock Outcroppings are actual formations from lava flows in the Garfield Flat Thrust that go back million of years.  Resembling a scene from The Danse Macabre, the curved and elongated rocks appear as hooded characters with grimacing looks that definitely send chills up the spine as the sun sets on a late autumn day.




What an exciting and interesting photo-adventure this day has been.  I love it when I am drawn to an area and not knowing what to expect I get treated to new experiences. 

Sign up and follow my blog to see where my next photo-adventure will be!


Photography places me in the moment where I can share that moment in time. It becomes a life story as represented by my interaction with the scene. The happiness and beauty or the sorrow and strife; how I focus leaves a lasting impression that might touch the viewer on a spiritual level.


 "Reflecting Nature's Artistry" 




Many of these images are available on my website:

 http://www.bonnierannald.com/ 

For custom matted and framed images:
Off The Wall


No images on this blog are within Public Domain or are available for free download. 

 All rights reserved, world-wide and images protected by Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). All photography, graphics, text, design, and content is copyrighted by Bonnie Rannald and should not be copied, down-loaded, transferred and re-created in any way without the express consent, in writing to Bonnie Rannald. For information on Bonnie Rannald licensed, right-managed images, please submit a written request.