The Ozark Wildcat Sits In Silence

What looks like a relic from the days of wooden roller coasters, I was surprised to find that the Ozark Wildcat at the now closed Celebration City in Branson, Missouri, is actually only seven years old.  It operated from May 1, 2003 until October 28, 2008 when Herschend Family Entertainment decided to close the amusement park at the west end of the Branson "strip". 

The future of the park and the Wildcat remain uncertain at this date, though at a cost of $4 million to build, I can't imagine this wooden wonder would be torn down.  However, stranger things have happened, so I took some time to get some shots of it. 

The area was eerily quiet except for the wind blowing through the complex angles and curves.  As I was reviewing the images from the site I was underwhelmed, expecting to see some exciting depth of field, criscrossing shadows, and the faintest hint of a ghost of a train careening past at top speed of over 45 mph.  The time of day was just too close to high noon, the air too heavy with increasing humidity, and the sky white with haze.  Knowing what I need to look for in a future shoot of the Wildcat, I did have fun with the shots I took today.  It was just too tempting to add some special effects, Photoshop style....... so I did!

There is a great old-fashioned Ferris Wheel next to the Wildcat.  I'll post those photos soon!

Thanks for stopping by today!  I hope you enjoyed the photos.

Barb