An Unforgettable Experience in an Abandoned Industrial Land

Abandoned buildings and industrial ruins hold a unique charm, capturing a moment in time when technology and progress left a mark on our environment. One such place is the rusting mills of Youngstown, Ohio. I spent much of my early 90s exploring these forgotten spaces, finding solace and adventure in their decay. This experience is something I will never forget.

Exploring Abandoned Mills and Steel Works

During those years, Youngstown was witness to the decline of its once-thriving steel industry. The abandoned buildings and rusting hulks became our playground. We managed to explore extensively, coming to know the community's homeless and a little-chased-by-security-guard routine.

Documenting the Decadence

Photography became a part of our exploration. We started snapping photos not just for fun, but to document moments in time. At the beginning, my Canon point-and-shoot was the mainstay, but later, the thrill of capturing these moments drove me to shoot more inspired shots. However, some of these early adventures were not documented. One incident, in particular, stands out as the craziest.

The Arduous Climb: A Crazy Adventure

There was an abandoned Jeannette Blast Furnace, now gone but still remembered. One day, we ventured further down the tracks to reach the site of a massive smokestack, mentioned in the lyrics of Bruce Springsteen's song "Youngstown." We snuck past security and down the tracks, making it our refuge and solace in the midst of a complex and challenging environment.

Feeling the thrill of the adventure, I decided to climb the stack. It was a rush, a rush that was also illegal. My friend chickened out mid-climb, but I pushed through, reaching the top. Despite the darkness and the lack of a clear view, the top was exhilarating. The climb left a lasting impression and a sense of defiance against the fading prominence of Youngstown's industrial era.

Rescuing Leftovers from Abandonment

After our adventure, we stumbled upon a small apartment building slated for demolition just two blocks from my apartment. It was completely open, which served as a golden opportunity. I pinched every lightbulb I could find and some books from the basement. The apartment had nice furniture, but I decided to leave those, thinking Mr. Cohen, who would be demolishing the building, could sell them for a decent price.

Conclusion

Exploring the abandoned mills of Youngstown was more than just an adventure; it was a journey into the past, a reminder of industrial exploration, and a testament to the human spirit seeking solace in what others saw as decay. These experiences will never be forgotten, serving as a vivid reminder of the industrial history of Youngstown and the adventurous hearts that continue to explore it.