Floodwaters and Flames:the 1913 disaster on Dayton, Ohio

Reviewed by: Kathy George - Gray publlic Library, Gray, me., Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: January 10, 2017

Review

Today, disaster plans and programs such as FEMA are in place to meet the needs of those caught in natural disasters such as Katrina. Where did these ideas and procedures first come into being- The Great Dayton Flood of 1913. Dayton, located at the crossroads of 3 rivers and surrounded by hills was a disaster waiting to happen. People were aware of a potential problem, but relied on the 20 foot high levees that were in place to protect the city. Sound familiar? On Tuesday, March 35,1913 flood waters broke through the levees and flowed into the city at 25mph, taking along anything in its path. Flood, followed by flames and biter cold March weather left 1000 people dead, not to mention total destruction to property and animal life. This slim book, through photos taken and through voices of those who experienced ;the disaster tell of the suffering and loss of everything dear, but what speaks even louder is the coming together of the people to save, feed and shelter all those in need. From building flat bed boats- one every 17 minutes, to feeding people-some 2000 loaves of bread and 500 gallons of soup and supplying cots, blankets beds and pillows this city laid the groundwork for what is in place today. It is a book that reminds us of the fragility of life and the resilience of people who come together for the common good.

Overall Book Score: excellent