1913 Flood

The Dayton Flood of 1913 was the greatest natural disaster to hit Ohio. Heavy rains on frozen ground and failed levees caused water levels of 20 feet in the downtown area. Over 400 people died in the flood.

The following information and pictures were graciously submitted by Tina Hursh. Tina obtained the info from the book "Story of the Great Flood and Cyclone Disasters" Ed. by Thomas H. Russell; 1913. Many thanks, Tina!

1913 flood map

Please click on the family names to read the stories that pertain to them.

ADAMS

CASSIDY

GEORGE SCHAEFFER

GUTLIP & PFEFFER

LINDSAY, SAETTLE, SHUNK, CREIDLER

MISS FLOSSIE LESTER

MUMFORD

PRUYN

ROLLER

STONE & CLEMENS

SULLIVAN

THUMA & MYERS

TURNEY

WALLACE

The following are pictures of the flood and it's aftermath: (please click on each picture for a larger view)

HOMES HALF SUBMERGED View of the Condition that Prevailed in Dayton for Never-to-be-Forgotten days and nights. . WHAT WILL COME NEXT? Eye-Witnesses of the Flood's Devastating fury saw houses swept away like driftwood by the Irresistible Current. . Motor Boats Proved of Invaluable Service in the Work of Rescue. . Motor Boats Proved of Invaluable Service in the Work of Rescue.
A DAYTON FLOOD VICTIM The Man being carried in a canoe was paralyzed from the waist down through standing in water for hours. . DISTRIBUTING SUPPLIES AT DAYTON The Relief Stations Were Thronged by Those Suffering for Lack of Food and Clothing. . RELIEF AT LAST. When the First Train Bringing Rescuers, Food and Medical Supplies Reached Dayton. . Naval Militiamen in the Work of Rescue - Women and Children First.

 

 

There are more photos of the flood on our Photo Page

 

 

©1999-2000 Tina Hursh
©2000 Peggy Tebbetts
©2003 Katy Hestand

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