Hello and welcome. My name is Stephen A. Harper and I am here to share about the project known as “The Tin Men of Texas”. Imagine getting to travel around the good state of Texas to find and photograph a collection of nearly 200 original metal water tower portraits, each capturing a slice of history and culture that’s often overlooked. It’s a lot of driving, but it has been a pleasurable education. Please read on to join me in my personal exploration of these towering sentinels and the vibrant towns they overlook.
Back in the late 1930s and early 1940s, these metal giants started popping up all around Texas. Turns out, they were built as part of President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal-era Works Progress Administration (WPA) economic plan, a testament to resilience and progress during challenging times. As I’ve traveled through different towns, these towers have become more than just structures – they’re symbols of strength and community.
But this project is not just about the towers; it’s about what’s happening underneath them. Each snapshot I’ve taken reveals a bird’s-eye view of daily life in these towns. From quaint shops and local cafes to charming main streets and annual festivals, these communities are bursting with character and stories waiting to be shared.
Exploring these towns has been a real eye-opener. It’s amazing how these places have managed to preserve their history while embracing the present. You won’t believe the warmth and friendliness of the locals, always ready to share a story or recommend a hidden gem.
One of the things I’ve enjoyed most is diving into the history of each tower and town, discovering how a network of generations over the years came together to build something special in each place.
So, please join me on this visual journey as I traverse the heart of Texas with my camera drone ready. Let’s discover the beauty of Texas together, celebrating the melding of architecture, culture, and community. It’s a road less traveled, and I can’t wait for you to experience the charm, history, and camaraderie that define these towns underneath the metal giants, true guardians of heritage.