The photograph shows a rocky cliff above the water in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The rocks appear to have sharp edges, formed by the combination of the waves and strong winds over time. Several trees are perched atop the precipice, and their thin branches awkwardly dangle off the side and partially obscure the water from view. The ocean lies completely undisturbed on such a fine day and displays no significant water movements. Off in the distance, a coastal area is also visible with a vast line of trees and a settlement camouflaged behind them.
Originally, the boundaries of Gloucester included the town of Rockport, located in an area known as “Sandy Bay.” But in 1840, these villages were separated and in 1873, Gloucester was officially formed as a city. Located on Cape Ann, the city occupies a large part of the Massachusetts North Shore. The town plays a prominent role in the fishing industry and is a major source of income for the people in the city. Due to the rocky nature of the soils in Gloucester, farming doesn't play as much of a strong role in the town's economy.
From the collection of Fred Bodin of Gloucester, Massachusetts. Fred was a long-time resident and well-known photographer of Gloucester and had one of the best private collections of New England nautical photographs. Fred was a photojournalist who graduated from Syracuse University and worked for Yankee Magazine. Mr. Bodin passed away in 2016, and HIP purchased his collection from his estate.