Kat Bergeron: And just what might this odd object be?
Today is a day for pondering, methinks.
So what is the object in today's photograph? Is it architectural? Is it utilitarian? Or historical? Perhaps an objet d'art? Hmmm
I offer 10 hints.
1: I took the photograph this month.
2: Once upon a time, this object did a disappearing act.
3: This object is on land, a mile or less from the waters of the Mississippi Sound.
4: It has changed locations several times.
5: Those who understand Coast history may have a better chance of identifying it, but a knack for observation may prove just as valuable.
6: In the 21st century, the object is a curiosity to both locals and tourists.
7: In 1920, this newspaper described it as "a real curiosity," but maybe you shouldn't let the date of the old Daily Herald article sway you too much.
8: One of my mother's expressions, "It's the worse for wear" applies here.
9: It's missing a few original parts.
10: Several chapters of the object's history -- both ancient and modern -- symbolize disaster.
That's all the help you get. I will soon reveal the truth of the object.
I intend this as a fun brain teaser for everyone who enjoys a history mystery.
You can keep your final answer to yourself, or share it among friends or family, or email me BergeronKat@gmail.com with your thoughts. I know my back-burner reputation has taken a hit of late, but I promise you won't have to wait more than two weeks for this answer. I've had too much fun thinking up the quiz to let today's challenge slide into the depths of the forgotten. This object certainly deserves better.
Kat Bergeron, a veteran feature writer specializing in Gulf Coast history and sense of place, is retired from the Sun Herald. She writes the Coast Chronicles column as a freelance correspondent. Reach her at BergeronKat@gmail.com or c/o Sun Herald Newsroom, P.O. Box 4567, Biloxi, MS 39535-4567.
This story was originally published February 27, 2016 at 7:18 PM with the headline "Kat Bergeron: And just what might this odd object be? ."