Newly aquired 2nd Wind joins the Cape Dory 14, see the 2nd Wind tab
So why the interest in barrier islands? I grew up on western long island sound, the coastlines for which can generally be described as rocky with few beaches. So when I move to the Mid-Atlantic region I encountered my first beach that stretched as far as I could see. For reasons I don't fully understand, I have found myself drawn to the flat Euclidean plane of the ocean-land interface stretching to infinity. I find it appealing not just for the sights and sounds, but also for the history and culture. I have amassed a small library of books on the DELMARVA barrier islands.
The barrier islands of the lower Maryland and Virginia eastern shore are owned by a bunch of different entities.
As a formation the land mass is not stable and is constantly shifting due to the elements. This has resulted in the abandonment of many of the historical structures and communities on these islands. Many of the old building are still there slowly succumbing to natures forces.
Many of old building used to be Hunt Clubs that were popular in the late 1800's and early 1900's. Some of these clubs even had small town with them located near by. To get an idea about the Watch the video to the left. In some cases the hunt clubs were also hotels that wealthy people from the eastern cities could come to for vacation.
Additionally the US Life Saving Service and later the Coast Guard had stations at various locations on the islands. Some of these remain, but most do not. My goal is to get a chance to see and photograph whatever still remains.