The Johnstown Flood Author: David McCullough Publication date: 1/15/1987,  304 pages ISBN-13: 9780671207144

One of America’s great disasters, a preventable tragedy. On May 31, 1889 heavy rains cause the South Fork Dam to over flow the dam and eventually burst. Massive amounts of water rushed down the Little Conemaugh River with its high valley sides. As it gained speed and picking up debris the flood first hits South Fork, PA, leaving it mostly unscathed, moving quickly to the same town of Mineral Point, PA and wiping it off the river shore, leaving the shore as thought a town was never there. By the time the flood approached Johnstown (58 mile ESE of Pittsburg, PA), the flood had picked up considerable debris and momentum. 14 miles West of the origin of the flood it hit Johnstown with devastating effects. In the end 2,209 people and caused $17 million dollars in damage (~$0.5 billion in today’s money).

As you would expect from David McCullough, a master historian, a brilliant account f this time in American history, the area, people and account of the disaster based on accounts of the people who were there. Definitely one I will re-read. Will also make plans to the National Memorial of the flood.

Map: National Memorial Link

National Park System - Johnstown Memorial Site