This is my second image in the St. Augustine Art Associations "History through the lens of the artist" exhibit. I usually do not say "I'm proud" of an image, but for this one I will say "I am very pleased." It is my first, larger scale Silver Gelatin, Selenium toned Print (hand-made in the darkroom, this was a 100% analog process, no computers).

If you have ever ventured down the Intra-Coastal Waterway, just South of St. Augustine, you probably passed by and dreamed about, living in the Kelly / O’Brian Estate. This magnificently old mansion has stood for many years on the corner of Moultrie Creek and the Matanzas River. Constructed in 1885 in the Queen Anne style, the home boasts many unique characteristics. It is the second oldest home in Florida to be constructed of poured concrete (only after the Villa Zorayda). It is the only documented Queen Anne style building constructed of concrete in the United States. The estate was significant in the development of the Moultrie area during the Flagler era. And I bet you didn’t know this….From 1931 to 1945, it was owned and operated by the Dixie Home for the Aged and Infirmed Deaf; a deaf-owned, deaf-run and deaf-funded organization. The only one of its kind in the South.

Growing up on Moultrie Creek, it was a treasure, and to learn of its lengthy history and how it influenced our community was amazing. I felt it was only appropriate to capture its portrait in the old style, with a Large format 4 x 5 film camera and a Silver Gelatin, Selenium toned Print, sized 16 x 20 (framed 22 x 26) - $425. Currently available for viewing and sale at the St. Augustine Art Association.