Drawbridges

Drawbridge Over Lake Worth
Palm Beach, Florida
November 13, 2019

In reviewing my photos from the visit to Florida, I happened upon one that I took from the Flagler Museum of a Palm Beach drawbridge. While not a particularly interesting image by itself, as I reflected upon the subject and the region I realized drawbridges define coastal South Florida. 

I remember that as a kid I was fascinated by drawbridges. Ithaca did not and does not have any. Seeing one for the first time, I think I was in college, was a fascinating experience, it was almost like the first time I happened upon an escalator, I just wanted to stop and watch the precision of the huge machinery lifting the road to allow maritime traffic to pass underneath. 

Floating Drawbridge
Willemstad, Curacao
July 29, 2015

The area where I reside in Florida when I escape to the south is replete with drawbridges. Sometimes, I believe they have it in for me and seem to open at the most inopportune times. There is one particular drawbridge that I traverse multiple times per day and I clearly remember one day that it was open fully fifty percent of the time I attempted to pass. And as you are likely aware, drawbridge openings are not a short affair. It takes a good 5-10 minutes for the entire cycle to complete. 

One of the most fascinating drawbridges that I have seen was in Willemstad, Curacao. That bridge opened by sliding away in the water. It was a floating drawbridge.  Against the colorful town, it was a sight to see and enjoy. 

I will have to become used to the open and closing of drawbridges as I spend more time in South Florida as they are a way of life for the coastal communities. 

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD