Heritage
Logging still matters.
This area has had a rich history with timber, dating back to the 1850s. California’s north coast was once referred to as the Redwood Empire. Everyone had jobs. Cutting trees. Loading the logs onto rail cars, and then later on the backs of semi trucks. Trainmen. Mill workers. That was the case up til 1980s.
My family worked in the mills. Some longer than others.
By the ‘90s, the environmental movement and a changing economy—not to mention a certain individual calling for clear cutting Humboldt forests to pay off junk bonds. The end was fairly swift.
I worked briefly in one of the few mills left in Willits. Same property my grandfather worked at back when it was Harwood’s B Plant. The company I worked for was Windsor Mill.
Pulled green chain. Pushed a broom. Graded boards. Worked in the glue area. Hard work, but I was young. Felt like a man job; especially after coming from a career as a dishwasher and janitor. I loved it.
Anyway, my path took me elsewhere.
Was heading down Highway 1 from Leggett to the sea today, and stopped at a turnout before the bridge crossing the Eel River. My aim was a simple road shot. The bridge is cool. Light felt good. Why not!
I heard the jake brake, echoing through the trees. And it gave me an idea!
The timber industry has made a bit of a comeback, though only a shadow of its former self. Practices are a little more sustainable these days. It’s been nice to see.
This photograph felt poignant.
I’m glad he came along.