It is approximately 50 nautical miles from Jacksonville to Palatka on the St. Johns river. We travel at about 10 kn–so it takes us about 5 hours to cruise up the river. The river flows north, so even though we are heading south, we say we are cruising upriver. The river opens up and becomes 2 miles wide at places resembling a lake more than a river.
We found a spot at the floating city docks alongside the riverside park in Palatka. Getting into the slip was a little difficult as there was a current pushing the stern out and wind blowing the bow toward the dock. We couldn’t get close enough for me to step off and tie us off–not wanting to risk getting wet in the murky water, we tried again and managed to get close.
The downtown area of Palatka is an easy walk. Mostly vacant stores line the streets but we found some interesting sights to photograph. We noticed immediately that many of the stores and businesses are painted with murals. The city is a part of a mural project.
 |
| Looks like Billy Graham with a baptism in the background |
 |
| The St. Johns river in the background. The pink building is still standing. |
 |
| See the fish in the boot |
 |
| Steve is going to research the cannonball hit into the Columbine |
 |
| Beautiful wildlife paintings |
 |
| Scarlet and Rhett in Palatka |
We also some some interesting signs…
 |
| Vintage sign |
 |
| It must be too early for the Bikers |
 |
| Another vintage sign at 3:30 in the afternoon not 9:00 |
 |
| Italian food however you like it |
 |
| McCrory’s sign on the door handle of this vacant building |
 |
| Just had to get myself in the photo |
 |
| Jeweler’s Hours |
 |
| looks like this boat was used during the heyday of Palatka–needs some upkeep now |
 |
| Since Steve was in the fence business we are always looking at fences. This is a very unique gate opening system. We are not familiar with this contraption. |
 |
| We really wanted to reach over and grab an orange from this tree. |
 |
| Looking out over the St. Johns |
 |
| Memorial to the submarines that were lost during WWII |
 |
| Welcome to Palatka |
|
|
We noticed a sign for Bingo when we entered Palatka and a life size Bingo card. Being the curious people we are, we went into the Bingo Parlor. It was smoke filled with many senior citizens sitting behind computer screens. A most unique way to pass the time.
Matthew 11:28-29 Psalm 46:1-2
