Louisiana Through My Lens - Why is there a Cannon embedded in a Baton Rouge Sidewalk?

Anyone walking down 3rd Street in downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana, may notice a strange cylindrical metal object sticking out of the sidewalk. The object is quite obscure, leading many to believe it could be an old sewer pipe or something similar. Most people who pass by tend not to give it a second thought. 

However, if you happen to be curious about this unusual object embedded in the sidewalk, a nearby historical marker might provide some clues.

Railroading In The South | January 2026 | Trains in Arkansas & Louisiana | Rails West

Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

We are well into 2026, and I’ve promised myself to do a better job of sharing my railroad photos. Although I didn’t take many pictures in January, I really like the ones I did capture. These photos were taken in my usual spots, including Leesville, Bunkie, and Baton Rouge in Louisiana, as well as Ashdown and DeQueen in Arkansas. 

Remnants Of The Santa Fe Railroad Still Roll In The Mojave Desert - Edwards AFB California | BNSF

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

I know I've mentioned this before, but there's an incredible amount of former Santa Fe Railroad equipment still in use on the BNSF network. Nearly a decade ago, when I lived in the Mojave Desert, I was fortunate to capture numerous images of ex-Santa Fe locomotives still hard at work. And on a trip to Tehachapi one afternoon, I came across even more examples of the ATSF legacy living on, over 20 years after the merger with Burlington Northern.

A Collection Of The Most Fascinating Places To Visit in Louisiana! | Your Guide To Louisiana Travel

Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

Joseph Jefferson House & Rip Van Winkle Gardens is truly one of the most captivating destinations in Louisiana. This remarkable historic site beautifully combines a rich past with stunning natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to step into a different world, far removed from the everyday hustle of southern Louisiana life. Nestled on the shores of Lake Peigneur at Jefferson Island, the gardens are meticulously maintained and filled with vibrant, lush plants. As you stroll through the pathways, the enticing array of colors and fragrances creates an enchanting atmosphere, making it easy to imagine you’ve traveled to a distant exotic locale.

Railroading In The South | 2025 in Review | A Year in Photos | Rails West

The famous City of New Orleans arrives in McComb, Mississippi

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

In 2025, I traveled to various locations throughout the southern United States. As an avid photographer and railfan, I seized every opportunity to photograph trains. Over the past decade and a half, I have earned a reputation for capturing images of trains, railroad-related items, and significant locations. I've also shared a wealth of regional railroad history that relates to the photographs and sites I've documented.

Louisiana Through My Lens | The Remains of the Red River & Gulf Railroad Depot in Lecompte

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

Tucked away in the brush in a field just south of Lecompte, Louisiana, is the intriguing remains of the former depot of the Red River & Gulf Railroad. This historic depot, which was constructed in 1906, was a pivotal stop for the railroad until its closure in 1954. If you take a moment to gaze towards the left side of the depot (In one of the photos below), you’ll spot a noticeable gap in the treeline where the Red River & Gulf tracks once existed.

A Wonderful Fall Walk Through The Town of Long Leaf | Louisiana Through My Lens

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

I've been holding onto these images for nearly a month now, and I really wanted to share them sooner. Life has been a whirlwind lately, so I’m catching up on my 2025 inventory of images before I dive into creating fresh content for 2026. Back in late November, my adventures took me through the heart of the state, and I made a stop at one of my all-time favorite places: the historic town of Long Leaf.

Louisiana Through My Lens: Louisiana Boardwalk in Bossier City

 Photos and Stories by Ken Hulsey

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to visit the Shreveport/Bossier City area for an early safety meeting. After these meetings, I love to find a peaceful spot where I can walk, stretch my legs, and enjoy some quiet time with the Lord. On this occasion, I found myself drawn to the Louisiana Boardwalk along the beautiful Red River.

Louisiana Through My Lens: Why Did Cheneyville Fade Away Over the Years?

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

Nestled in the heart of Louisiana, the charming town of Cheneyville boasts a close-knit community of around 600 residents. While it may not be a Ghost Town by any stretch of the imagination, the echoes of its bustling past resonate through the quiet streets lined with picturesque, yet sadly abandoned, houses and storefronts. These structures stand as reminders of the once-vibrant life that thrived here, evoking a sense of nostalgia for those who remember the town's heyday.

Remembering the Ghosts Of The Santa Fe Railroad in La Mirada, California

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

Today, I was reviewing some of my old railroad-themed photography, searching for my best shots to share with the railfan community. I came across a set of images taken back in 2012 of a group of locomotives and cabooses at the BNSF facilities in La Mirada, California, on a dreary May afternoon. What makes these images unique and particularly interesting for modern railfans is that every piece of equipment I photographed was still in the colors of the old Santa Fe Railroad.

California Through My Lens | A Trip Back In Time | Southern California Railway Museum

 Photo and Story By Ken Hulsey

This is one of my favorite photographs, and I cherish it for several reasons. Firstly, it was taken at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, California, which is one of my favorite places on Earth. Secondly, it’s railroad-related, and the intriguing part is that it looks as if I used a time machine to capture the scene. 

I took this shot back in 2009, but it could easily have been taken in the 1930s or 40s. Everything in this image is from that period—well, almost everything. From the streetcar to the buildings, the railroad crossing sign, the street lights, the power poles, and the traffic signal, all reflect vintage Southern California. I feel like I truly captured the essence of that era.

What I love most about this museum is that it features numerous well-preserved locations, including buildings, signs, vintage cars and trucks, as well as vintage railroad equipment, such as old LA streetcars like this one. Unfortunately, if you look closely enough, you can spot an item that seems out of place for the 1930s, which somewhat spoils the illusion.

I enhanced the photo using a couple of filters that give it a vintage look. These enhancements really bring out the nostalgic feel and composition of this photograph.

Check Out:

The History of Ventura County Railway No. 2 and Its Journey | Southern California Railway Museum

Memories of Santa Fe Locomotive 3751: San Bernardino Railroad Days 2012 Flashback

Uncover the Story Behind Abandoned Locomotive #400 in Long Leaf, Louisiana

See History Come Alive at the Kern County Museum

The True History of Sarto Bridge's Haunted Cowboy and Horse

Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

Horror fans worldwide know the famous tale of the Headless Horseman, or Galloping Hessian, which author Washington Irving immortalized in his novel, *The Legend of Sleepy Hollow*. However, many Louisiana residents are unaware that there is a legendary ghostly rider right here in the Pelican State.

Louisiana Through My Lens - A Foggy Morning Walk Through Shreveport Riverview Park

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

Last week, I stayed overnight in Shreveport because I had an early morning meeting in Bossier City. After the meeting, I decided to visit one of my favorite places in Shreveport, Riverview Park, which is located alongside the majestic Red River. The weather was pleasantly cool for a change, with a lovely layer of fog hanging in the air, so I thought it would be a great opportunity to stretch my legs and take some photos of the area.

Jefferson, Texas Through My Lens | An Afternoon Walk Downtown

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsy

A couple of weeks ago, Terri and I took a day trip to historical Jefferson, Texas. We instantly fell in love with the place. So, when I had to travel to Arkansas and Northeast Texas on Monday, I couldn’t resist taking a detour back to Jefferson. During our previous visit, Terri and I were tourists. This time, however, I was in photographer mode, feeling that the images I captured on our first visit didn't truly do justice to the magic of Jefferson.

See History Come Alive at the Kern County Museum

 Story and Photos By Ken Hulsey

In 2016, my wife and I embarked on a Saturday adventure in Bakersfield, California, which turned out to be one of the most enriching experiences we've ever had. On a whim, we discovered the Kern County Museum, and being history enthusiasts, we couldn't resist the chance to explore its treasures. What awaited us was a delightful surprise that far exceeded our expectations. 

Memories of Santa Fe Locomotive 3751: San Bernardino Railroad Days 2012 Flashback

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

Back in 2012, the San Bernardino Railroad Days in San Bernardino, California, featured a true star of railroading: the ex-Santa Fe "Northern" locomotive #3751. The event attracted a lively crowd of railroad enthusiasts and photographers who eagerly lined the tracks in front of the beautifully preserved vintage passenger depot, all hoping to capture a glimpse of this remarkable piece of living history. As expected, this proud locomotive of the Santa Fe steamed down the Metrolink tracks from her home in Los Angeles, presenting an impressive sight for all to behold. 

Discovering Crescent Bay Beach: A Hidden Gem of Southern California

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

Crescent Bay Beach and the picturesque Crescent Bay Point that gazes down upon it are truly among my all-time favorite spots on our beautiful planet. This beach is a genuine hidden treasure! While many Southern California beaches are bustling with visitors during the summer months, Crescent Bay remains a tranquil oasis. Its secluded location makes it difficult to access, and honestly, unless you’re a local, you probably haven’t heard of it. You won’t spot this gem in any travel guide or tourist brochure! 

Exploring Big Bear Lake: A Photo Tour of Nature’s Beauty

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the wonderful times my family and I had in both New Mexico and California. Just last week, I shared our memorable trip to Silverwood Lake, which turned out to be quite the adventure! Tonight, I’m thinking back to our journey deeper into the San Bernardino Mountains to the stunning shores of Big Bear Lake. This post was inspired by a conversation my wife and I had during our weekly grocery run yesterday. We were chatting about how life in Louisiana is quite different from our experiences in California. I fondly remembered a romantic picnic we enjoyed at Big Bear Lake, where we savored Kentucky Fried Chicken at one of the lakeside tables and strolled with our dog along the water’s edge. It was such a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of High Desert life, which feels much more laid-back compared to Los Angeles.

Vegas Baby! | My Best Photos from The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace

 Photos and Story By: Ken Hulsey

I have to share that I truly miss being just a three-hour drive from the incredible attractions of the Las Vegas Strip. There’s really nothing quite like it anywhere in the world! The beauty of the Strip is that you don’t even have to place a bet or catch a show to find entertainment. I remember spending an entire evening simply strolling along the Strip, taking in the breathtaking sights and observing the vibrant crowd. It was hours filled with joy and amusement, all without spending a single dollar!

 

Discover Quiet Corners of Silverwood Lake for Relaxing Outdoors

 Photos and Story By: Ken Hulsey

Our family has cherished our time hiking around Silverwood Lake for years, so I knew a day spent in nature would be a hit for everyone. This beautiful area has been a favorite of ours, offering fantastic opportunities for hiking (just remember to stay on the trails), fishing, boating, and camping. What’s great about Silverwood Lake is its ability to feel serene, even though it's conveniently located near the bustling areas of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange County. Unlike nearby Big Bear Lake, which often gets crowded on weekends, Silverwood Lake allows you to enjoy a peaceful day if that’s what you’re after.