There are many proud Americans who demonstrate patriotism and love-of-country in the days surrounding the 4th of July. Red, white and blue flags and banners wave off mailboxes, porches, and flower boxes. People celebrate with barbecue and Budweiser and fireworks. They remember the sacrifices our ancestors made to forge a new country, and those that every generation since have made to secure liberty and freedom for the most exceptional of nations.
My hometown of Makanda, Illinois is one small village where patriotism is alive and well. Each 4th of July, I'm always impressed by the efforts made by the owner of an old abandoned house at the entrance to town. It appears that the roof of the house is caving in and moss covers much of it, but because of its location, an American flag and a window box with flowers and a patriotic theme are on display and highly visible to everyone leaving the Makanda boardwalk and heading back to the civilization of Carbondale or beyond.
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| The boardwalk of Makanda is a tourist stop and setting for artists' studios. It has an amazing history which you can view here. You may click on photographs in this blog for a larger view. |
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| Every year before the 4th of July, an American flag appears on this abandoned house. |
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| Look closely and you'll see an American flag in the flower box. Maybe the frog on the bicycle is that great American hero, Kermit. If you remember The Muppet Movie, Kermit was quite the cyclist. |
I hope you all have a happy 4th of July.
You can view my photography website at:
www.tombellart.com.
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