The Brickyard Bayou
Along the Gulf Coast of Mississippi the rivers that empty into the Mississippi Sound all have bayous and creeks that feed them and drain the surrounding areas. Historically, the bayous were given names to describe either the families that settled on them or a business that was on them. Two bayous were given the name Brickyard Bayou due o large brick making enterprises located on them in years past. One is in Harrison County off Bernard Bayou and is well developed now with residences and businesses on it. The other is in Jackson County off the Pascagoula River just north of the confluence of the Escatawpa and Pascagoula Rivers. I live near and write about the one in Jackson County.
Most of my earliest memories are from when my family lived in Escatawpa. Then it stretched along the confluence of the 2 rivers, north about 6 to 7 miles and east about 2 miles from the Pascagoula River. By then it was mostly residences and a few sawmills, the Brickyard had long since closed. One of the local sawmills, called Rogers' Sawmill, was previously named Stephens' Sawmill, and was located on Brickyard Bayou at what was called Stephens' Point where an unnamed creek widened into the bayou proper. My apartment is about 200 yards from this point nestled on a dead end road among the pines.
Stephens' Point
The map doesn't show the creek continuing where the bayou meets Hwy 613. Stephens' Point Creek does continue roughly east about 200 yards then turns north behind the house to my east for about 3/4 of a mile.
The structure across the road from me is the old storage barn from the sawmill that was here. It still contains some roughcut cypress boards and other lumber items waiting for a new owner.
For The Children
Currently, there are over 25,000 children of Fallen Veterans in the United States of America. These veterans gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country and never got the chance to provide for their children what we all strive to provide.
This organization is dedicated to ensure these children do not have to sacrifice their future by providing scholarships, counseling, and assistance for college.
To Assist My Efforts
Before retirement it was a minor expense from my income to support the building and maintenance of the websites I had. Unfortunately, since retirement in 2021, my expenses related to these activities has not reduced. Actually, inflation has had a major effect on all my expenses. Being only dependent on my Social Security, it can get really iffy getting through the month if I have any issues like health or automotive. I make do and stay dedicated to expressing myself and sharing my take on the world.
If you feel inclined you can make a donation (or not, your choice) to my endeavors through my Cash App account. My account is at $brickyardblog. Thanks for your consideration.
John Richards
Author/Blogger
Most times I am just the Head Dish and Bottle Washer, but, every so often, I actually get to write something. A 10-year US Navy Veteran, I spent over 40 years working as a Marine Electrician and Radar/Weapons Electronics Specialist.