In 2016, I embarked on a journey of self-reinvention, turning my attention to the Finger Lakes after enduring a challenging period in Cleveland, Ohio. This phase had tested me to my core, marked by two years of navigating the complexities of contract work, an abrupt end to a temporary position at the Federal Reserve Bank, the ordeal of a mugging, and the chaos of living in an apartment that felt more like a prison than a home. This chapter was filled with obstacles, igniting a longing within me for the peace of nature, the intimacy of small-town life, and the liberty found in rural adventures.
With only my camera gear and a determination to forge a new direction, I steered my Subaru towards the Finger Lakes, a destination only five hours away but significantly removed from the life I was eager to leave behind. The region, with its abundance of waterfalls and historical sites, served as a refreshing change of scenery. Among these gems was Van Nattas Pumping Station in Ithaca, New York, an emblem of a bygone era that presented a stark contrast to the decline I had experienced. In this setting, surrounded by the remnants of history and nature’s unyielding advance, I discovered a deep affinity for the area.
This newfound connection was enduring, propelling me towards a significant life alteration. Driven by a newfound sense of peace and belonging, I decided to make Ithaca my new residence. By early 2017, this transformation was realized. Cleveland, with its myriad challenges and tumult, transitioned into a closed chapter of my life. In its stead, Ithaca promised a fresh beginning and the opportunity for a life enriched by the exploration and intrigue that initially attracted me to the Finger Lakes. This shift exemplified the profound impact of place in molding our paths, a concept that deeply resonates with anyone in pursuit of a fresh start.
3 Comments
Add Yours →“Sure, I was surrounded by grit and decay, but it just wasn’t satisfying.” LOL! It just wasn’t your kind of grit and decay.
is this structure still there and what is the condition? Can it be saved?
It’s still there but in very poor condition. I don’t believe there are any structural elements left inside to walk on – or much of a roof.