National Geographic Photo of the Day: November 18th of 2013

Ward Charcoal Ovens, Nevada

November 18, 2013

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November 18, 2013

Ward Charcoal Ovens, Nevada

Photograph by Royce Bair, Your Shot

This Month in Photo of the Day: Your Shots
In operation between 1876 and 1879, Nevada's Ward Charcoal Ovens—here glowing with filtered lights that simulate functioning ovens—were built to produce charcoal from pinyon pine and juniper. In the years following, the ovens are said to have served as shelters for workmen and hideouts for stagecoach bandits. Today they're the main attraction in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park.
What Makes This a Photo of the Day? While I appreciate the beauty in imperfection, perfection can be equally as compelling. It is clear that a lot of work went into creating this stunning scene. The light painting draws my eye to the hand-hewn symmetry of the structures, lit from within by filtered lights placed to simulate functioning 1876 ovens. The effect is otherwordly. —Alexa Keefe, Photo of the Day editor