Family depicts image of Sept. 11 firefighters in cornfield
Posted on 06/24/2002 3:27:17 AM PDT by MeekOneGOP
Family depicts image of Sept. 11 firefighters in cornfield
06/24/2002
SNYDER, Texas - Donna Gafford was moved to tears when she and her two young sons watched three firefighters raise Old Glory atop the ruins of the World Trade Center last fall.
So when she and husband Greg decided to forgo planting cotton this year on their farm outside Snyder in West Texas, Donna Gafford suggested doing a maze in a cornfield that from the air depicted the scene that had gone straight to her heart.
"I think those three firemen raising the flag on that rubble exemplified what is the best of our American spirit," Ms. Gafford said. "As tragic as that event was, there have been some amazing things coming from it: a resurgence of patriotism and people showing loyalty."
AP Greg and Donna Gafford created a maze inspired by World Trade Center heroism in a cornfield on their West Texas farm. |
The Gaffords' project, which requires chopping stalks to various lengths to create the image, covers 10 acres. There will be 6 miles of trails carved out for visitors to navigate for a fee. At the top, the maze reads, "American Spirit," followed by the call letters of a Snyder radio station.
Those who enter the field, scheduled to open July 4, can spend some time answering questions at as many as 15 locations within the maze. The topics range from agriculture specifically corn to events since Sept. 11 to Scripture. The little stops also offer clues to help visitors find their way.
Or visitors can journey through without any aids.
"Being lost is not a terrible thing if you're lost in a controlled environment," Ms. Gafford said.
It's been no small investment, and some family members are concerned the couple won't make any money. But the Gaffords say it's been a ton of fun and a good outlet for their sons' energies.
AP Admission to the 10-acre maze with 6 miles of trails is $7 for adults. It is scheduled to open July 4. |
The couple have put in a $12,000 underground drip irrigation system and spent a few thousand more on corn seed.
However, they have no idea how many people will come or how much money they'll make. They are inviting schools and churches from throughout the South Plains region; prices range from $7 for adults to $5 for students up to 12.
"I expect there will be quite a few people going through," Mr. Gafford said. "We hope to break even, that's for sure. I don't think that will be any problem."
Looks like an opportunity for a Texas FReeper road trip.
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