In Storm Gods, I reference the Coral Castle in Homestead Florida. I have to admit that as many times as I’ve made the drive to the Keys I’ve never stopped there. Mostly it’s the dog’s fault because I can’t bring him in, so that’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
Some friends came down for a visit and stopped for a tour. I was fascinated by the achievement of one man, Edward Leedskainan was born in Latvia in 1887. The five-foot tall, 100 pound man built the structure alone using techniques he claimed had been used to build the pyramids.
One of the marvels, which I used in the caves in the book is the entrance gate. Together, the stones total 1,110 tons — including a 9-ton gate, 5.8-ton walls, a 28-ton obelisk. Quarried in Florida City, he moved the stones 2.5 miles to Homestead where they were erected.
The beauty of the door is the picot hinge, which I also used in the story. Perfectly balanced the 9 ton gate opens with the touch of a finger.
No one knows how he built this structure alone, with fairly primitive tools. According to lore, he would stop work when anyone was watching and wait patiently for them to leave.
Love your style and books. My wife and I have toured The Coral Castle and it is truly amazing.
Coral Castle is on my bucket list.
I love your books!