Daniel Gittelman- Tour of Lion's Bridge and the Noland Trail (Natural Setting)

Walking to the river, the breeze picked up and pushed against my face. Nearby, flowers feeling of cotton gently rests on the earth. Several magnolia trees sit beside me, each with waxy evergreen leaves. The trees carry fruits, each with peculiar red seeds.

We advance to the statue. The words on the side read “Collis Potter Huntington. 1821-1900. Founder of the shipyard”. Atop the statue stands a man taming a horse, which can be portrayed as man taming nature- a perfect theme for this park touched by man. At the bottom of the statue are sitting men, each appearing to pay tribute to the shipyard.

Next is the Noland trail itself, which is far newer than the park. At the opening into the woods, a dying tree remains. Its walnuts have fallen to the dirt, signifying how we are all temporary and will eventually fall as well. The crown of the tree is deadwood, reminding me of how our hair will be one of the first indications of aging.

Deeper into the woods are wild cherry trees. Dr. Redick tells us of Muscadine grapes, purple berries, and several other fruits further in. Nearby trees with marks leave a message for us, saying that they were once wrapped with vines. A close-by red oak tree has been completely knocked over, communicating to us about the dangerous storms that have disturbed the peace. Dr. Redick explains that in 2003, Hurricane Isabel knocked down 8,000 trees.

Shifting from these depressing messages, a site of regrowing pine trees provides positivity. These trees tell us of how the shipyard required much pine wood, but luckily people have decided to replant some pine trees. This resonates with me as a symbol of hope. This hope stems from the idea that we can undo the damages we’ve done to nature. Elsewhere in the trail, the forest canopy has been partially removed so that light may grow youthful plants at the bottom.

Nature contributes greatly to finding peace because becoming immersed within the trees allows for one to utilize their senses to reflect upon the history of the setting. This provides a distraction from daily life issues and allows us to reflect upon both nature and ourselves.