Exploring Abandoned Houses for Fun
Samantha Aldridge, staff writer
There has been a heavy rise in urban and rural exploration throughout the world because of the mere curiosity for a fresh shot of something unusual. Everyday my timeline on Instagram is full of posts from explorers searching high and low for the newest abandoned attractions. I recently spoke with two urban explorers that have ventured across miles of Virginia to see these places. Taylor Parker and John Plashal regularly explore abandoned places and document their experiences on Instagram.
This exploring involves photographing, entering, and examining the contents and structure of abandoned places. People all over the world have created a community of interested individuals in this peculiar activity.
According to Plashal, explorer and writer, he finds these places by aerial maps and interviewing locals. The action of exploring is liberating for people with the thrill of being surrounded in the unknown. Now people have made livings by creating content incorporating abandoned places with videos, photography, and explaining the history behind them. People are fascinated by it.
Wanting to know the inspiration behind why people enjoy doing this, I asked explorer Parker. He said, “ Whenever I find an abandoned home I wonder what life was like for the families that lived there. These homes are full of history and memories. That’s why I document them because one day they won’t be there anymore.” Old places are usually full of items left behind by families that tell stories to the people visiting. Sometimes people find old pictures, articles, and even clothing from the previous owners that add to the mystery of the place.
Explorers entering run down buildings risk getting in contact with asbestos, falling debris, and other harmful toxins. These places are typically rotting considering the fact that they have had very little care and maintenance done to them after their owners leave.
Plashal said, “Originally I was worried about unfriendly property owners until I quickly learned how friendly and accommodating Virginia landowners are. Now, it’s the structural integrity of the places I enter, potential toxicity of the interiors, and being careful exploring rural areas during hunting season.”
Something many explorers experience are some forms of vandalism in the abandoned places. Many explorers despise vandalism because of the damage it does. When asked about vandalism Parker said, “Vandalism is the most disrespectful thing you can do to an old home. These places are full of history and memories and it’s a shame to see that people don’t care about that. I always respect the properties and try to get permission from the owners.” Plashal also hates vandalism and mentioned that Virginia thankfully does not have much vandalism in abandoned homes.
Overall, explorers venturing into abandoned houses will continue to gain attention as time goes. Houses and places will continue to become abandoned because of the sad reality Plashal addressed at the end of our interview saying, “Elderly parents die, estates, inheritance and wills get messy with siblings. Relationships get ruined. Lawyers get involved. The place goes into probate.”
These explorers will continue to investigate the history and document their findings until there is nothing left. Anyone can follow their journey on Instagram @johnplashalphoto and @explorewithtaylor.
