A new photography book documents the workers, spaces and memories of Ithaca's former Morse Chain, BorgWarner and Emerson Power Transmission factory campus as the SouthWorks site moves into redevelopment. "Factory Stories," by Ithaca photographer Harry Littell, combines current images of the industrial complex with portraits and firsthand recollections from former employees.
SouthWorks will host a public launch from 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 6 at FOUND in Ithaca, 620 South Aurora St. The event is free, and copies of the book will be available for $40.
Littell said the factory's large spaces and natural light inspired awe and reminded him of an abandoned cathedral of 20th-century manufacturing. His work focuses on people and infrastructure in communities undergoing change.
Littell is an adjunct photography professor at Tompkins Cortland Community College, where he has taught since 2003. He was raised in the Southern Tier.
SouthWorks Development Project Manager Robert Lewis said the book pairs decades of community stories with images of the factory as it exists today, preserving a perspective that could otherwise disappear.
The former industrial campus is being redeveloped by Shift Capital, L Enterprises, USC Builds and Xylem Projects. The partners plan to create space for artists, makers, entrepreneurs and small businesses while retaining elements of the site's industrial history.
Guests are encouraged to register in advance for the launch.
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