Navy base
by Vyvansetrance on October 28 2020 15:49 hr CE(S)T Shortlink to this report: [ https://urbx.be/xxay ]
Finding out the location |
easy |
Access |
very hard |
Safety |
unsafe |
Risk of being seen |
high |
General condition of the place |
bad |
Traces of vandalism |
very many |
Good place for taking pictures? |
good |
Did you see other people? |
many |
Visit date July 5 2020 at 7 hr
Visit duration 1 hour
Built in 1901 and abandoned in 1996, this naval base operated for nearly 100 years before retiring. It was built to serve US soldiers through World War One and two. Sitting on 145 acres of land, it includes offices, a medical library, pharmacy, chapel, hospital, sick quarters and a phych ward. Altogether, it totals 32 different buildings. Additions were made in 1940s to meet mounting demands of World War Two. World War Two ended in September 1945 and needs eventually slowed down. In 1972, the main hospital portion of the base closed and moved to a newer hospital. Soon after, the need for the base faded gradually. Shortly after it’s closure in the late nineties, it was added to the National registry of historic buildings. Now, it has been abandoned for over two decades. It’s future is unclear. In its current state, it sits unused. The inside is crumbling and has been wrecked by vandals and graffiti. The outside also shows signs of decay and some graffiti. Floors are falling through and dust coats every surface. As of now, it has been said it “too costly to restore”. Fences have been placed around the larger hospital portion of the base to prevent further intrusions. Most the rooms are now sad and bare and cast a strong feeling of sadness and doubt. I didn’t stay very long due to this overwhelming feeling and the obvious danger from the condition it’s been left In. Despite the sad feeling, you can tell history and American spirit were once alive here. My favorite part was the large porch, full of southern charm. This naval base served well to those who served this country. Hopefully, it can be protected and restored.
Text and photos are by Vyvansetrance. Click here to see Vyvansetrance's profile and other reports.
Send a message to Vyvansetrance