Powerful photo book record shows destruction of 'America's playground'.

A photo book has been compiled by a photographer, Brian Rose, to showcase the dramatic change Atlantic City has gone through since the 1990s.

When the Trump Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City was opened in March 1990, it was declared “the eighth wonder of the world” by the owner. Despite the fact it was in deep debt before it had even opened, Donald Trump declared it the saviour of Atlantic City. Unfortunately the insurmountable debt would never be overcome, and Trump’s promises were unfounded. The casinos went from employing thousands and bringing in a third of the city’s gambling revenues to being accused of money laundering and being prepared for demolition. The city soon became a ghost town when the casinos collapsed under the weight of their own unsustainable economics, and many who helped set it up have still not been paid for their work.

Sculptor Michael MacLeod has yet to be paid for his time and skill producing this elephant. Photo credit: Brain Rose.

Homes left desitute, and dwarfed by the Revel Casino behind them. Photo credit: Brain Rose

Photo credit: Brain Rose

According to Brian Rose speaking to The Guardian Newspaper, Donald Trump’s legacy has left Atlantic City “a ghost town”, however Trump’s own wealth has been untouched by the city’s loss. Thousands of jobs have been lost, dozens of contractors were unpaid so many have now been forced out of business, and the city is in desperate need for an injection of life.

Brian Rose’s photo book shows the shocking way the city has been treated, and how awful it looks now. Dead animals lie outside empty buildings, gaudy and tacky casino decorations juxtaposed tackily with the stunning ocean views, and deserted buildings give a dystopian-nightmare-abandoned-theme-park aesthetic.

“When Trump failed with his casinos he turned Atlantic City into a ghost town. His legacy still haunts the boardwalk.” Rose stated.