Revisiting Bartlett

I revisited Dean Doty and his wife, Carol, in Bartlett Iowa as they continue the daunting effort of sifting through the rubble left from the monumental flooding this past March.

Dean Doty spray painted this message after his homestead was robbed by looters.

fell off he house while he was salvaging material from the roof. He sprained his wrist and ankle.

Dean cuts out a window on the front of the home in order to access the family room.

Carol Doty takes a moment to assess the damage. Despite the flood occuring several months back, Carol has only been inside a few times. She's lived in Bartlett since she was 3 years old, and said it's very difficult coming back to all the damage.

Dean discovers a sign that reads "Hope-The only thing stronger than fear"

Dean and Carol sort through the remains of the house.

A Halloween decoration is unearthed. Ironically, earlier this week, Dean and his brother discovered the actual remains of a human skeleton when they were fising on the Missouri River. They reported the discovery to the local authorities and wondered if it was a victim of the flood.

Dean's brother, Damon Doty salvages a plastic Jesus. Damon also fell of the roof this week and severely injured his wrist. He feared it was broken and was planning on going to the hospital later in the day.

Carol shows a picture of her deceased mother who was a longtime resident of Bartlett.

Dean taking a break.

A neighbor's truck shows the damaging effects of the mud and water.

Carol clears out furniture.

Dean on break.

The entire home was moved off its foundation from the force of the flood.

An angel overlooks the cleanup effort.

After prying open a waterlogged dresser, Dean finds more ruined possessions.

Doty plans on demolishing the home. He and Carol have purchased a 5th wheel trailer. They hope to park the trailer on their property in Bartlett and travel to Arizona in the winters in the trailer.

A view of most of the possessions cleared from the family room on to a flatbed trailer.