Photo of the Week: Doc. WB Jones' Homestead
- Andrea LaRayne Etzel
- May 11
- 2 min read
Updated: May 12
Each week, I share an image I've captured along my travels and about the photograph's context.
I stopped in Marion, Kansas, on my way home to Topeka from Medicine Lodge. I was spending the night at the Historic Elgin Hotel, but there was time to wander the area before checking in. I've longed to visit the iconic, abandoned homestead that once belonged to Doctor William B. (W.B.) Jones.
About Dr. William B. Jones
The homestead was constructed in 1878, but Doctor Jones sold it in 1881. Based on newspaper accounts, it seemed Dr. Jones didn't stay in any place too long. He and his family moved from Marion County to Cherokee County in the early 1890s. His final home was in Baxter Springs, where he is buried at the Baxter Springs Cemetery.
Getting the Image
Driving down a long dirt road, without another soul in sight, the homestead almost looks small surrounded by massive expanses of prairie (see image below). Walking the fence line, I snapped the shutter and looked around for snakes before crouching to get a low angle. Then (I swear) I looked up and suddenly there was a bull. Where he came from, I don't know. Now, evidence was all around that cattle were using the field - if you know what I mean - but I had not laid eyes on one.
I could have kissed that bull. The images I took of the house alone were okay, but the cow added more nuance. It enriched the visual story.
Personal Field Note
Whenever possible, take the backroads. You never know where they'll lead.
LOCATION
Doctor W.B. Jones' Homestead Marion County, Kansas
CAMERA SETTINGS
Nikon D7100
Lens: 80mm
ISO: 400
F stop: 10
Shutter Speed: 500
ANOTHER SHOT FOR THIS TRIP
