Will begin with a definition:
A geologist is a scientist who studies the solid and liquid matter that constitutes the Earth as well as the processes and history that have shaped it.
Why consider this? Well, like a geologist, believe that wandering about and studying the structures and buildings that make up the various towns and/or cities as well as the processes, craft and history that have shaped them, enable a enlightened understanding of the past and present.
It is well documented that the Midwest has lost much of its manufacturing industry. The major players - steel, automobile and railroads - have left.
What is not often stated is that many minor players have also gone. As an example:
New Castle, Indiana
Once a Coke Cola bottling plant, now a New/Used location. There used to be such bottling plants in several communities throughout the area. With the huge improvement in roads/freeways, it made economic sense to close the smaller plants, make use of a large facility and transport the finished product.
To distribute was cheaper as a lower maintenance cost and a reduced labor force allowed enough product to reach market. One large production factory, a truck and driver replace the several scattered plants. Local production ended, buildings closed and local workers left jobless.
As downsizing became the way to improve profit, office buildings became expendable. Small regional offices were closed and tasks were moved to a central location. This left buildings vacant. Some standing and waiting for a new life, others simply left to slowly decay.
New Castle, Indiana
Once these 20 ports for electric meters were in use. Now, the meters have been taken out. The power has been removed and the building stands empty of life and light.
No answers. Just looking and seeing.
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