Time flies

A fellow blogger, mentioned in an email that the clock tower that use to grace the top of this old building, may of been converted into the monument on the south lawn of this building. Here's a photo with the monument. I believe the four statues on each side, represent our military forces - Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines. And, the one on top, I'm only guessing - has to do with justice, or liberty. This was a "drive by shooting" (with my camera!) - I'm glad the statues didn't shoot back. I was disappointed in seeing I didn't quite get the top details of the building and statue, but considering it was a drive by, I'm pleased with it. I was multi-tasking, and focusing more on the traffic and stoplight, than the camera.

If you'd like to see an old photo that shows this building with the clock tower - click here http://www.wichitaphotos.org/graphics/wpl_wpl1975.jpg and enlarge the photo.

I'm back after taking a closer look at the old photo from the above link. I see the clock tower on top of the building, and the monument on the lawn. So, now, I'm wondering - what became of the clock topper of this great old building. Why was it of been removed, and where did it go? Maybe time really does fly - and it flew away!

Update, and my thanks to the commenter that posted the following information:
The clock tower was struck by lighting in the 1950's and was taken down. The monument was actually built in 1912-1913. It is to honor the Union's civil war dead. It is called the Soldiers and Sailors Civil War Monument. The 4 statues represent the 4 branches of the Union army; Artillery, Cavalry, Infantry, and Navy.

Old Sedgwick County Courthouse

A neat old building, that's stood the test of time (so far).

In looking up some history on this building, I find it originally had a tall clock tower on it.

Not sure when it was removed, or why.

McWind

The flags in front of this McDonald's shows how windy it was the other day.

Then we had a few days of calm clear sky and sunshine.

Yesterday, we had ice and snow.

Kansas has quite an assortment of weather conditions.

They say - "If you don't like the weather in Kansas, just wait a little bit, and it will change".

Through the looking glass

As I was drinking the last of the Pepsi from my glass, this was the view that I'm calling "through the looking glass. Do you see, what I saw? Someone else was drinking, too. Cheers!

Minisa Park

This recreation shelter is located in Minisa Park, near the river and Minisa bridge. This building is used for reunions, baby showers, birthday parties, and various other get togethers. Picture the inside having a ceiling that follows the contour of the roof, and you can imagine what a neat ceiling it is.

----------------------------------

"Moonshadow" sent this link for the park building...
http://www.wichitagov.org/CityOffices/Park/FeesReservationsAndRentals/EnclosedShelters/Minisa.htm

It has shots of the inside of the building, in case any of you would like to see. (Thanks Moonshadow!)

Mead Island

Back to Minisa Bridge - the one with the Buffalo and Indians - this is the view to the south of it.

I've always liked the island and trees, in the middle of this stretch of river.

I just heard on our local news, Minisa Bridge will close this Tuesday for restoration work to begin. It is planned to reopen in October. Glad I got the pictures when I did.

I find on a map of this area, that the proper name for this shot is Mead Island.

Sails on Douglas bridge (in the distance)

This photo, pulled from my archive, shows the decorative sails on Douglas Bridge

(the same ones seen in yesterday's photo).

Enlarge - to better view this sparkling river scene.

I think this was taken in October, of last year.

There are actually, two bridges in this photo, Douglas Bridge being furthest away.