- April 16, 2026
The Flagler Beach Historical Museum recently unveiled a striking photographic work titled From Pier to Eternity, generously donated by artist Robert Dalles. The piece captures the iconic Flagler Beach pier in the predawn light of October 2008, preserving not only the structure itself, but the spirit and stories woven into it.
The unveiling, held as a simple morning gathering, highlighted the deeper significance of the photograph as both an artistic work and a historical record of a beloved community landmark.
“This morning was a simple unveiling—but it represents something much bigger for our community,” said Sheila Pillath, Executive Director of the Flagler Beach Historical Museum. “This photograph preserves not just what the pier looked like, but what it felt like. It captures a moment that can never be repeated, and by adding it to our collection, we ensure it will never be forgotten.”
Dalles’ path to photography began with a background in architectural design, having studied at the University of Pittsburgh and worked in cities including New York, Columbus, and Atlanta. After retiring to Palm Coast in 2008, he found inspiration in the area’s distinctive coastal light—an influence clearly reflected in From Pier to Eternity. The image is part of his “The Way We Were” collection, which has been featured in exhibitions and public spaces throughout the region.
“Robert’s work reminds us that the pier is more than a structure—it’s a symbol of connection, memory, and resilience,” said Robert Creal, Board Chair, Curator, founding member of the Museum, and lifelong Flagler County resident. “As the pier evolves, this photograph ensures that an important piece of its history—and the personal stories tied to it—remains accessible for generations.”
A unique detail captured in the photograph is the engraved wooden planks of the original pier, bearing the names of individuals and families who contributed to its legacy. As the pier undergoes reconstruction with more durable materials, these personal elements are being lost—making the photograph an especially meaningful preservation of that era.
Reflecting on the image, Dalles shared, “The ‘stars’ in the sky represent the thousands of people who come here and experience all that Flagler Beach has to offer. It’s always been a place defined by its people as much as its landscape.”
Dalles’ work has been exhibited by organizations such as GOLA and commissioned by groups including the Chamber of Commerce and Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. His photography has also appeared in Sun and Surf Magazine and is currently displayed in public spaces at AdventHealth Parkway Hospital.
From Pier to Eternity is now part of the Flagler Beach Historical Museum’s permanent collection, where it will serve as both a visual tribute and a lasting record of the community’s shared history.
For more information about the Flagler Beach Historical Museum, visit www.flaglerbeachhistoricalmuseum.org.
To view more of Robert Dalles’ work, visit https://thedallesgroup.com.
