Page 44 - Demo

42Forsaken DomesThe Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana placed the Medora Brick Plant on its list of 10 Most Endangered Landmarks in 2004. Opened in 1906, the factory once produced 54,000 bricks a day, and employed 50 people. Now, it%u2019s in decay.John and I found the place magical. Stretching across a flat, overgrown several acres, there were smokestacks and a dozen round, yurt-shaped structures. Known as %u201cbeehive%u201d kilns, they were heated by coal, until 1992, when EPA regulations led to the operation being closed.We found the kilns fascinating. Each was banded with heavy iron strapping to prevent expansion when it was heated. Two arched doors, used for loading bricks, provided access to the interior. When we entered one kiln, and saw the domed brick ceiling overhead, it felt as if we were in some ancient place of worship.Later, we explored other parts of the factory%u2014a brick drying building, sheds, an office, and a maintenance facility. At one time, for Halloween, the locals created %u201chaunted%u201d scenes inside the empty structures. We found a few decorations still lying about.Some day, these ruins at Medora will be completely gone. Yet, the bricks manufactured here will endure%u2014in the walls of buildings, and under layers of asphalt in roads, all across the Midwest.Medora Brick Plant, Medora%u2014Jackson Co. (074.15)