The Johnstown Flood

US History research papers on the Johnstown Flood will cover one of the most tragic natural disasters in United States history. Paper Masters, located not far from the Johnstown site, can write custom papers on this tragic event.

The Johnstown Flood is the first published work of history by famed American historian David McCullough. Published in 1968, The Johnstown Flood was welcomed by a critical reception that allowed McCullough to become a full-time writer. The book chronicles one of the worst disasters in the United States.

The following are the facts you will need to include in your research paper on the Johnstown Flood:

• The Johnstown Flood itself took place on May 31, 1889
• The flood occurred in the town of Johnstown, Pennsylvania
• The flood was a result of the failure of a dam on the Little Conemaugh River, located 14 miles upstream from Johnstown
• 2,209 people were killed
• $17 million dollars in estimated damage was done

The Johnstown Flood - 1889

High above the city of Johnstown, the South Fork Dam had been built between 1838 and 1853. The reservoir and land behind the dam were purchased by Henry Clay Frick and a group of wealthy speculators, who built the exclusive South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club.

In late May 1889, one of the worst rainstorms recorded struck Pennsylvania, inundating the reservoir. Flooding in the town of Johnstown reached 10 feet, trapping many in their homes. On the afternoon of May 31, the dam broke, sending 20 million tons of water rushing towards Johnstown, fourteen miles away.
An hour after the dam broke, the wall of water and accumulated debris struck Johnstown, killing thousands. Disaster relief efforts were coordinated by the newly formed American Red Cross, which was led by Clara Barton.