T.A Moulton Barn - The story behind the image
T.A Moulton Barn - The story behind the image
This Iconic Structure may look like any other classic old barn in passing. But with a little research one will find out that it is more than that. Located in the Antelope Flats area of Grand Teton National Park, the Moultons were one of the more famous families to settle in this area. After hearing from other Mormon families that there was rich soil to be farmed, they set out from Salt Lake City to make this part of western Wyoming their home. At the time, Thomas Alma Moulton didn't realize the barn he built and added on to for over 30 years would become one of the more iconic landmarks of Wyoming and the National Parks. In 2013 the barn celebrated its 100 year birthday. While the Moulton Family stopped working and living on the land in 1961, they still gather every memorial weekend in Antelope Flats to talk history, catch up on family and most importantly, plan the much needed repairs to keep the barn standing. While many that view this barn in person or graced in photos, see it as a beautiful old historic barn. The Moulton's, on the other hand, know this is a symbol of the sacrifice and what it took their family and the surrounding community to survive.
The Story behind the Image:
This barn has been photographed in so many different ways. Some images represent the seasonal beauty of the Grand Tetons. Others capture the historical importance of the building. Together, this image is one of the most photographed places in the National Parks and represents so much. So begins the challenge to create an image that is unique from most of the others. On this day, some low clouds had moved in and it was almost the middle of the day. The light was flat and the weather wasn’t helping bring out the fall colors. I was at the Blacktail Overlook trying to find inspiration when I noticed the sun was trying to break through creating interesting streaks in the dark cloud cover. I took a few shots but still wasn’t happy. I started to become more and more captivated by the unique patterns made by the sun and was determined to capture it. At that point I realized I had to go with black and white but I was not in the best place for this. Concerned that the sun might burn off the low clouds I needed to move fast. Mormon Row was only a five minute drive and I thought it would be the perfect place to capture all the elements I was envisioning. Upon arrival, I thankfully had the place to myself so I could capture as many different views as without getting in the way of others. My ultimate goal was to have the sun streaks increase the dramatic feel of the image but keeping a rustic sense to the barn. Most of the images of this barn give the viewer a sense of the beauty surrounding it. I wanted to capture an image that hopefully would give a little historical insight of the survival of the Moulton family. The harsh times they had to live through to make this area their home, while also being a symbol of perseverance. Hopefully I succeeded, but most importantly I think I have my own version of this popularly photographed scene.
Thank you for for taking the time to read my story and feel free to comment. As always my images available for purchase. If yo have any questions, please contact me.
