How does a place hold onto its soul even when time and tragedy try to wash it away?
The salty breeze brushed my face as I stood on the weathered boards of the historical Rod N Reel Pier, with my camera in hand. The waves of the Gulf of Mexico lapped gently against the wooden pillars, blending with the distant laughter of children playing on the shore. Pelicans and seagulls soared above, their cries echoing across the water, while the history of this cherished Florida landmark lingered in the air.
Rod N Reel Pier, built in the 1940s, has become more than just a fishing pier; it is a symbol of resilience and community. For decades, it welcomed locals and tourists, who came to fish, dine at the pier restaurant, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It has withstood so much, becoming a historical anchor for first dates, family gatherings, and moments of solitude. Every inch of its timeworn wood held stories and laughter. I pressed the shutter, capturing not just a view but a feeling—a sense of belonging and timelessness.
Then came Hurricane Helene, delivering a blow that tore through the pier, leaving it battered. And as if that weren’t enough, Hurricane Milton finally destroyed what remained. The pier and restaurant at the end, once full of life, is now totally destroyed.
As I left that day, I knew this photograph would be a memory of the heart of Rod N Reel Pier, forever preserved, even after the storms had passed.
