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The island resources are currently in transition. Before the 1996 floods,
the ruins, pedestrian loop, interpretive signs, and self-guided and ranger-led
walking tours defined the island's character. After the floods, partial
access due to construction activity and a limited number of interpretive
opportunities shape the fragmented visitor experience.
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(top) Appearance of island soon after completing construction
of plank bridge over the cotton/flour mill stair tower, 1994;
(bottom) Completed rehabilitation of the cotton/flour mill ruins,
2001. NPS photos |
Today, some structural features are now more prominent due to what has become a significant redefinition of the shoreline ruins. In most cases, these structures are now safer for the public to venture onto or into. For example, plans called for the freestanding ruins of the old headgates to be substantially stabilized, made structurally sound to withstand the force of flooding and to prevent their loss in future floods. During the initial phases of the work, masons reloaded the intake arches in such a way that the rebuilt headgates are now also strong enough to support loads. However, the tenuous character typical of ruins has been augmented. Today, as stabilized, the sturdy, solid appearance of the headgates (top) encourages park visitors to use them as a platform or low vantage point from which to view the river. Another change from pre-flood conditions occurred with the removal of silt from the stone-lined water tunnels that brought water from the river to power several island mills. Though not promoted or encouraged by park stewards today, park visitors can literally walk through the now-excavated tunnels.