During the mid-1970s, two massive cylindrical tanks, built to hold liquefied natural gas, were constructed here in Rossville, Staten Island (aerial view). They were never filled, however, due to strong community opposition and the fear generated by the explosion of an (emptied) LNG tank on the northern part of the island that killed 40 workers in 1973.
So these two enormous structures, supposedly "designed to withstand the impact of a 747 jet airliner", have just stood here unused for almost four decades. Many animals found a home in the surrounding woods over the years, and a good number of people have made their way up to the tops of the tanks to take in the unique views of the city they provide (next photo). I remember being up here right after a big snowfall a few years ago and watching a small herd of deer moving together through the picturesque white landscape. Where else can you see something like that in New York City?
There have recently been plans afoot to demolish the tanks, which some people consider a "horrible blight". As you can see, the forest around them has already been bulldozed. Parts of the staircases have been torn down, and supposedly there are going to be or have already been tests conducted to determine what it will take to level the tanks.
I can't blame the property owner for wanting to do something more lucrative with the land, but anyone who thinks these tanks are a "horrible blight" has no imagination, in my opinion. They always looked magical to me, these rusting behemoths sprouting out of the woods, with deer and other wildlife running around. The first time I stood on top of them is a moment I'll never forget.
Anyway, here's to appreciating the tanks for what they are, for however much longer they're around!
Looking out over the Arthur Kill, we can see the rusting hulks of the ship graveyard. Beyond them lies the West Mound of Fresh Kills, where much of the rubble from the World Trade Center was buried, and beyond that looms the skyline of Lower Manhattan, where the twin towers once stood. Off to the right, where the white fence is (better view here), you can sometimes catch a glimpse of a horse running around, though none were out today.
Some graves here date back to the middle of the 18th century.
Holding fast to his profession without wavering, he made full proof of his ministry, and was ready to be offered.
According to Wikipedia, "Mary Katherine Horony Cummings (November 7, 1850 – November 2, 1940), known as Big Nose Kate, was a Hungarian-born prostitute and later longtime companion and common-law wife of Doc Holliday in the American Old West."
