A Man and His Barge

I was drawn to Red Hook with its edgy, worn landscapes, its ubiquitous rust, and the extraordinary quality of light. Some years ago, while taking pictures there, I came upon an old barge moored in a small inlet. This photographic essay was digitally photographed with available light. It focuses on the maritime activities, and maintenance performed by Captain David Sharps with the aid of friends, and volunteers aboard the 101-year old Lehigh Valley barge #79. This historic landmark and working museum is the last remaining example of the Hudson River Railroad barges. The story highlights float repair, spinning the barge, and barge assessment regarding dry-dock mandated by the US Coast Guard. The Lehigh Valley barge has been towed by tug up the Hudson River, and is currently in dry dock at the NYS Canal Corporation’s repair facility in Waterford. You can follow the Lehigh Valley @museumbarge on Twitter for details about her continuing voyage.