Many of the small towns I enjoy travelling to and photographing are located along rivers, some small, some not so much. One of my favorites is Augusta, Kentucky. This little hamlet, population 1200, is located on the south bank of the Ohio River just upstream from Cincinnati.
Augusta is the perfect river town. It has lots of history and charm along with a beautiful, cozy downtown. It even has its own ferry service crossing the river. Augusta’s official website proclaims it as the most picturesque town in Kentucky. Who could argue with that?
Like all river towns across the country, transportation figures prominently in Augusta’s past and present. In addition to the ferry, CSX Transportation has a rail line that runs through the middle of town. Several times a day trains rumble through town, providing both a physical and an emotional link to the rest of the world.
But the river, of course, has always been the lifeblood of Augusta. There is always a steady stream of boat traffic moving up and down the river. Everything from massive barges to the smallest pleasure craft take advantage of the calm, wide waters of the mighty Ohio River. The small boat dock located just off the main street makes Augusta a perfect stopping place for local boating enthusiasts enjoying a day out on the water.
The history of Augusta as a town dates back to 1797. So, there is plenty of history here. There are many interesting homes and buildings, each with its own unique story. This was an important part of the Underground Railroad making Augusta an interesting mix of north and south.
As a photographer, Augusta is a dream come true. It allows me to incorporate many of my favorite subjects in one location: transportation (especially trains), architecture, water, and small-town ambience. It is certainly on my list of favorite places to visit and photograph.
If you would like to see more images of Augusta, head on over to my featured gallery, River Town.
For more information about the town and its history check out their office webpage here: https://www.augustaky.com/.