Old Memphis Underpass by PhrankPower
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
This is one of the few remaining old underpasses located near present day downtown Memphis. From what I've been able to research they were built sometime before the turn of the century (not the one 9 years ago!).
Perhaps they were the precursor to the Overpass? I've yet to discover why instead of a normal street intersection they chose to have one street dip into the ground passing underneath the above avenue rather than joining it, which would have been a hell of a lot easier!
This one is near the old Memphis Brewery, so it may have been the direct path of the daily beer wagons they'd take without encountering any annoying intersections. Or maybe I'm just placing far too much importance on beer distribution, if such a thing is possible.
It's also located in the old cotton district, and back in those days cotton was king. So that could be a factor too.
Anyway, you can see the original cobblestone that remains even though some years ago they laid asphalt over it, for some ungodly reason. Of course the asphalt now is almost gone and the cobblestone is as solid and secure as the day it was laid. Some things should just be left alone!
The cobblestone streets in that area of Memphis were laid beginning in the late 1880's, so one must presume our Underpass is at least that old. I plan to research this some more.
This was taken late afternoon which allowed the light to extend further into the tunnel than usual.
Thanks much!
marshall

Comments (12)
Fantastic perspective and light!
lovely play with the light
Fascinating! I'll be interested to know what you learn. Denise will love this!! Very fancy.
Interesting shot and documentation!
excellent composition and lighting! (a piece of history captured)
Wonderful capture!! superb light too.
Wonderful light and POV! Happy New Year to you!
These could be some kind of ancient ruins--great shot and amazing forms!!
Perfect POV and a wonderful and informative narrative! :)
Wondreful composición and superb light, excelent perspective !
Wow! What a beautiful bunch of architecture! I could spend hours down there with my camera....excellent POV with the repeating columns receding into the darkness!
nice shot. I would like to see this up close