MEMORIES OF CATARACT FALLS
(By Rita Sibbitt)
How can one write about something that is so beautiful, maybe because I was young it was so wonderful, or maybe it showed me how much nature and the simple life felt so free and happy.
I often drive back, yet, to feel that memory and see the falls. I drive to the gate and I see, as a young girl, Mrs. Stuckey at the gate house - think of the pictures we would look at inside, of the big catfish our friends caught, remembering my dad in his waders casting out to catch the big one. There were some big cats caught at Cataract. I know because my dad caught some. He was from 5 generations that loved Cataract. It's no wonder this little piece of heaven was passed on to my family. I see the little dotted cabins as I drive to the lower falls and the spot where we sat on the rocks and made hollyhock dolls. I can smell the campfire, where, at night we would sing songs and roast hotdogs while the adults were playing cards in the little cabin. Then the guys would be getting lanterns to fish all night. Then as the sun rose up we were ready to start another day. Never were we bored. When suppertime came we would row our little boat to the spring to get water. I don't think I ever tasted anything so cold and clear as this. I have often gone to look for that spring but never found it, as the brush and weeds have covered it.
When life gets hectic, I think of these memories and the quiet life of nature. I thank God for giving me the chance to enjoy this simple freedom.
Ain't God Good.
I dedicate this to all of the old fishermen. They are gone now, but loved Cataract. Also to Mildred Hunter, for never forgetting one more little girl to go with them. I can hear her say, one more does't matter. Ha!
Cataract Falls, the largest waterfalls in the state of Indiana, are located 8 miles southwest of Cloverdale, Indiana. A great picture spot and picnic area, the falls are also home to the Cataract Covered Bridge built in 1876.
