The Abandoned NVF Plant

The abandoned NVF Plant in Hockessin, DE.

This past Saturday myself and a group of about 30 people ventured to the abandoned NVF Plant in Hockessin, Delaware. Founded by photographer David Norbut, this was the 3rd photowalk and meeting for the Delaware Instagramer's / EyeEm group, this walk so far has been the ultimate adventure. 

Photo by: David Norbut Photography. 

I got to the location an hour early to participate in David's new photo series called: Into the Wilderness of the Human Spirit, which reflects the raw beauty of mankind. One thing I've learned from the 1st photowalk is come prepared in the proper clothing, my first experience I got mobbed by fleas venturing into the Gibralter Mansion. For starters come prepared in fully covered clothing and boots to walk through any kind of environment. David and I trekked through mud past thorny bushes and burs, the morning was gloomy so we headed up through the hill into and open area to the right light. I really love how David shot my portrait; its the little imperfections in my face that make it feel so raw and personal. All the photos from the series had a real native and natural feel to them which we sometimes we lose into today's world. Check out his full series HERE »

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AND SO THE WALK BEGAN…

Firstly, I'll have to tell you in case you we're wondering, is this place private property? Yes. Our group received permission from the township and we each had to sign a waiver to walk the grounds. The first part of the walk we ventured into one of the original buildings which contained contaminants like asbestos. About six years ago the NVF papermill Plant went bankrupt and the remains looks like the workers just got up and walked out, leaving remnants of their everyday behind. Graveyards of filing cabinets, old medical kits, desks, machines, lockers and the random objects like a mini tv, a Marilyn Monroe nude poster, and a frying pan to name a few items. For about an hour we walked some the inner buildings then later roamed the outside along the railroad tracks, through the woods and around the water tower. In the next few years this place will be demolished, so sad because places like this are disappearing. 

I meant some really cool people that day and got some eerie shots taken with my iphone. I also took part on being in front of the camera which was weird and cool all at the same time; want to do that more often. In the afternoon we all met up at one of the Delaware IGER's member's house for some mexican stew, brews and photo editing. I must say it was a great day; I'm really looking forward to our next adventure.

Check out more photos from this adventure over at my FLICKR »

One of the buildings was burnt down, and the roof caved in. This photo was taken between the destruction.

Myself, my brother and his girlfriend, we mostly roamed around together.

This photo turned out really cool, looking like a spirit is being released from my brother's head.

I found myself sitting in this old rocking chair, of course my butt got wet to get this shot.

Me watching tv.

Something left behind, the yarn seemed to go on forever.

Me taking a break from being so serious. This particular photo was taken by my brother Eddie. I had to share cause I love how it turned out, reminds me of an old tintype.

I found this bottle in a medical kit.

Check out more photos from this adventure over at my FLICKR »

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What cool places have you been to?
Would love to hear your stories?

Beauty Behind the Walls

"NEVER LEAVE", this photo turned out quite eerie, I love to take pictures without looking in the view finder, never knowing how things will turn out. I was haunted by the contrast and how desolate the prison really looked.

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This past weekend I ventured to Philadelphia with my friend Jessica, many adventures during our day we spent at the Fairmount Ave Flea Market. My side kick and I walked the treasure filled streets that surrounded the Eastern State Penitentiary. I found so many vintage finds, we spilt a popcorn cupcake from this little coffee shop called Mugshot Coffee Shop and took a tour of the prison. I had quite an amazing time, despite almost getting us lost on the way, hooray hoorah for good friends and good times.

The Eastern State Penitentiary was open from 1829-1971, it was the first to establish a policy of solitary confinement and also held such criminals such as bank robber Willies Sutton and the famous Al Capone. It was the largest and most expensive ever constructed and quickly became a model for more than 300 prisons around the world.

I've always wanted to go to the prison for its hauntings and because I love creepy beat down places, so I drug Jess with me and spent a good hour walking the cellblocks. The place was so amazing and some areas were very eerie. I was so happy I brought my camera because there was so much detail to capture and I even got to sit on an old metal frame bed in a cell. I want to go back very soon, for a paranormal ghost hunt and even take some more friends. 

You can find more photos at my FLICKR!

Also you should check out the 360 view of the prison floor plan.

"PUNISHMENT", the outside of the high stone walls were lined with bright green ivory, moss and a single nail that was pounded into a crack. Just beautiful symbolism I thought.

"VEINS", I found this dead brush growing above the prison walls near famous cell #13. It reminded me of the once living lonely sinful prisoners.

"AT HOME", this was Al Capone's cell, he spent one year the penitentiary years before his mischief got him locked up in Alcatraz. He must of felt right at home due to his lavish cell.