In 2016, one of North America’s oldest oak trees died in a cemetery in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Experts say the tree was over 600 years old and was already around when Columbus came to America. The tree was declared officially dead after an astounding six centuries. The cause was old age and possibly harsh weather.
Unfortunately, the tree will have to be cut down to ensure the safety of the cemetery and church below, but at least the wood will be used to create crosses and mementos for churchgoers. The stump will remain in place.
Disney’s River Country
Disney’s River Country was Walt Disney World Florida’s first water park ever, styled as an old-time watering hall with fake rocks and even a fake mountain. Sadly, for the past several decades it has been empty and decrepit. With attractions full of decaying vegetation and pools full of dirty water. The park opened in 1976 and was wildly successful at first but over the years the place began to deteriorate, and Disney opened other bigger and more modern water parks.
River Country was shut down for routine maintenance in 2001 but it was announced later that the park was shut down for good. It is unclear why Disney left the park to rot instead of demolishing it, but it turns out that this is not the only time the company did so...
Legzira Beach
Morocco’s most unique shore, Legzira Beach, was famous for its immense sandstone twin arches which could be seen during low tide. Sadly, the arches collapsed in 2016 due to the weight of the massive cliff above them.
Before the collapse, tourists flocked to this place which was known for having some of the most beautiful sunsets on Earth.
Kaimu Beach
Kaimu Beach used to be a famous black sand beach in Hawaii and was the home of 150 families, but in the early 1990s the Kilauea Volcano erupted and wiped out the village of Kalapana. The eruptions continue to this day and so far over 500 acres of land have been added to Hawaii’s Big Island.
The black sand beach is no longer accessible, but you can still enjoy lava boat tours from Pahoa to see how the island has changed.
Norcia
On October 30th, 2016, the town of Norcia in Italy was hit by a 6.6 magnitude earthquake. The quake caused the destruction of the Basilica of Saint Benedict which had stood since the 12th century. Ironically, the church’s structural integrity had been inspected just the week before by the ministry of culture and repairs were planned. Sadly, the Cathedral of St. Mary Argentina which was famous for its 15th Century frescoes also collapsed.
The town’s other ancient remains including original Roman city walls, multiple churches and other historical buildings were also damaged by the earthquake. The quake devastated the small town and took away much of what had made it historically important and attractive to visitors.