Shadows of the Past, Elkmont Community Poster

Elkmont is a region situated in the upper Little River Valley of the Great Smoky Mountains of Sevier County,Tennessee. Throughout its history, the valley has been home to a pioneer Appalachian community, a logging town, and a resort community. I find the story of this particular community both interesting and haunting. Like many places that have come and gone, there's a certain sadness and nostalgia associated with the telling. Today, Elkmont is home to a large campground, ranger station, and historic district maintained by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, due to recent budget limitations, much of it has now been demolished. Those who once enjoyed this retreat, tucked away in one of the most beautiful places in our land, are no longer around to tell the tales of summer days in the creeks and cabins with family and friends. It is my hope that my photos will keep just a bit of Elkmont cherished and remembered.

Simply put, I LOVE TO TAKE PICTURES. I found this love later in life than many do, after raising my family and enjoying a career in education, both as a teacher and school administrator. Currently, much of my time revolves around travel and photography, and when I'm not traveling and taking pictures, I'm thinking about traveling and taking pictures! The Tennessee valley is my home, so I am surrounded by some of the most scenic areas of the United States with the added bonus of plentiful wildlife and birds...literally paradise for a photographer! My best days are spent in the mountains enjoying God's amazing creation and trying to capture all things nature with my camera. It gives me great joy to use this medium to share the intricacies of...