I meant to post this in April on the anniversary of the Waco Siege. I visited the site several years ago while on a trip to Austin. Prior to the trip I did a little research online. Some folks said the site had gates that were closed, or signs forbidding anyone to enter. Others who made it in said a few residents or Mt. Carmel members approached them. Not in a diabolical way, but to chat.

It was August, and very hot, when we arrived (kind of off the beaten path – a little difficult to find, for me at least). There were gates but they were open. My friend Aidan and I walked right in.

It was eerily quiet when we walked in (we left our Jeep right outside the gates). I noticed a small home (what looked like a home) nearby but nobody came out. I heard a dog barking in the distance. This is the first thing we came too.

A memorial for the Waco victims.

People leave coins at the base of this stone that lists the name of the victims (so many children). Next stop was what I assume is the new church. It was empty/closed. There were no services or anything. I believe in later videos by other visitors there is a museum of sorts inside regarding the siege.

Finally there was one of the only original physical structures from the compound that still exists at the memorial site. The above ground swimming pool. I’m not sure why I did not take more photos or even video. Maybe it was too somber or felt like a violation to do so. A lot of folks lost their lives there (Davidians and law enforcement). Especially the children.

Looking back I should have moved in closer. A lot has changed in little time when it comes to a visit like this for me. Today I’d probably have a drone in addition to videos or interviews. But content like that will be coming. I’ve been away for awhile! Working on the book(s) (I’m a horrible procrastinator). Cheers!