In November 2008, Laura and I visited Japan. It was truly an incredible journey. Japan is a camera culture and that was something novel for me—to be surrounded by tourists and locals alike capturing moments with their cameras, taking bits of their experiences home for later reflection.
Whenever we travel abroad, the camera is constantly by my side. On tour, everything is important, every moment sacred and time is best served documenting everything that one does—no detail seems insignificant or inconsequential. As a traveler and observer I don the attitude that these things will never happen this way again, so preservation is paramount.
When we returned home from Japan, I began to think about my relationship with my own place of residence. I have lived in the small, river town of McGregor, nestled in the hills northeast Iowa since 2001. I have always been making photos here, yet after our trip, I suddenly recognized that photographing McGregor is every bit as special as photographing foreign lands, perhaps more so. It infused me with a new energy to document my daily experiences, to use the same approach with my hometown as I would my vacation travels.
Every community has atmosphere, an energy that drives events and captures the hearts and minds of the residents. I have renewed my fascination with McGregor, and now I am setting forth with my camera to capture as many moments of life in this town as I can. Obviously, these photos will hold a special place in the lives of those who call McGregor home, but I believe that these images will also be of interest to those unfamiliar with McGregor.
The purpose of this documentary project is to demonstrate that every event in life, every moment is unique and special. No aspect of this little town is unworthy of attention—from the turn of the century buildings to the eclectic assortment of signs, to the locals about their daily business. Though the population is only about 800 people, there is an abundance of activity in McGregor. I am coming to realize that I can never exhaust the images that I will find in this town. Every day is an exciting adventure.
Thus, I have challenged myself to stray off my usual paths to investigate, to nose about, and to meet new people. These are images that need preserving. In the past month of dedicated shooting with this notion firmly in mind, I have discovered the hidden jewels of McGregor and I am pleased to exhibit them at my on-line gallery. Come share the journey and experience my perspective of McGregor, Iowa.
—William F. Gentry II
Just wanted to let you know I just went through every picture you posted. I am originally from McGregor/Marquette but now live in Indiana. Loved all the photos, and even saw a few familiar faces! Really reminded me of home.
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