" . . . . until you take the wheels off (The TrailerPark Troubadours)

Almost a decade ago, I was driving through the mountains of Eastern Kentucky when this tune came over the radio. The Troubadours painted a comic but sympathetic picture of this iconic American Landscape.

So why does it come to mind now? In Spring 2009, the Geography Department will find itself in a set of trailers modular units while Monroe Hall is being renovated. Our home away from home will be on College Avenue between Chandler Hall and Fairfax House (sort of tucked behind Ball Hall).

As the diagram shows, this is no simple trailer. It’s not even a double-wide. It’s a corrugated metal palace that will hold all 8 faculty, physical and GIS lab spaces, a ‘break’ area with sink, fridge, and microwave, and even a small meeting room. Who knew exile could be so sweet. Too bad we can’t keep the wheels on . . . we could take it on the road!