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The Bessie Levee augmented with sand bags during the 1937 flood near Tiptonville, Tennessee, 1937. Creator: Walker Evans
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The Bessie Levee augmented with sand bags during the 1937 flood near Tiptonville, Tennessee, 1937. Creator: Walker Evans
The Bessie Levee augmented with sand bags during the 1937 flood near Tiptonville, Tennessee
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Media ID 25326671
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Augmented Bad Weather Evans Walker Flood Flooded Flooding Levee Mississippi Mississippi River Pole Quai Quay River Mississippi Sandbag Sandbags South Southern Walker Evans Water Level Depression Economics Great Depression Negative Nitrate Negative Nitrate Negatives Gmgpc Recession
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The Bessie Levee - A Symbol of Resilience Amidst the 1937 Tennessee Flood
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This photograph, captured by renowned photographer Walker Evans during the devastating floods of 1937 near Tiptonville, Tennessee, depicts a scene that epitomizes both the destructive power of nature and the indomitable spirit of human perseverance. The image showcases The Bessie Levee, augmented with sandbags in a desperate attempt to hold back the raging waters of the Mississippi River. As dark clouds loom overhead, this still image freezes a moment in time when communities were grappling with economic depression and widespread poverty caused by the Great Depression. Evans' lens captures not just an ordinary levee but also serves as a poignant metaphor for resilience amidst adversity. The dilapidated wooden pole standing tall against the floodwaters symbolizes hope and determination in face of overwhelming challenges. Through his masterful composition, Evans transports us to rural America during one of its darkest hours. This photograph becomes a powerful historical document that reminds us of our shared heritage and collective struggle against natural disasters. Preserved within the archives at Library of Congress, this image is part of Walker Evans' iconic body of work commissioned by Farm Security Administration (FSA) during this era. It stands as a testament to his ability to capture raw emotions through stark imagery while shedding light on social issues prevalent at that time. As we gaze upon this hauntingly beautiful print today, it serves as both a reminder and an inspiration - reminding us never to underestimate our capacity for resilience even in times when nature's fury threatens our existence.
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