Johnstown Flood National Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Johnstown Flood National Memorial |
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Dam abutment and Elias Unger's farm
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 Johnstown Flood National Memorial
Location in Pennsylvania
Johnstown Flood National Memorial
Location in the United States
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| Location | Croyle Township / Adams Township, Cambria County, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Nearest city | Johnstown, Pennsylvania |
| Area | 164.12 acres (66.42 ha) |
| Established | August 31, 1964 |
| Visitors | 111,987 (in 2005) |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Johnstown Flood National Memorial |
The Johnstown Flood National Memorial remembers a terrible event that happened on May 31, 1889. More than 2,200 people lost their lives in the Johnstown Flood. This disaster was caused by a huge dam breaking.
The memorial is located near South Fork, Pennsylvania. It's about 10 miles (16 km) northeast of Johnstown. The site protects what's left of the dam. It also includes parts of the old lake bed. You can also see the farm of Elias Unger and the clubhouse of the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club. This club owned the dam and the lake. The United States Congress officially made it a national memorial on August 31, 1964.
Contents
Remembering the Flood
The Johnstown Flood National Memorial helps us understand the tragic 1889 flood. It teaches visitors about the dam that broke. It also shares the stories of the people affected. The memorial aims to make sure we never forget this important part of history.
The South Fork Dam
The South Fork Dam was an earthen dam. This means it was made mostly of soil and rocks. It held back a large body of water called Lake Conemaugh. The dam was built in the 1850s. Over time, it was not kept up very well.
On May 31, 1889, heavy rains caused the lake to overflow. The dam could not hold the water. It broke, sending a huge wave of water rushing down the valley. This powerful wave destroyed everything in its path.
The Johnstown Flood
The floodwaters traveled quickly towards Johnstown, Pennsylvania. The town was completely unprepared. The flood destroyed homes, businesses, and lives. It was one of the worst disasters in American history.
The memorial helps visitors imagine the power of the flood. It shows how the dam looked and how the water moved. It also honors the many people who died.
What You Can See
The memorial site offers several places to explore. You can walk around the remains of the dam. There are also trails that show where the lake used to be. These areas help you understand the scale of the disaster.
The Clubhouse and Farm
The South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club clubhouse is still standing. This building was part of the club that owned the dam. You can learn about the club and its members. Elias Unger's farm was also on the property. His farm was near the dam.
Visitor Center
The memorial has a visitor center. Here, you can watch films and see exhibits. These displays tell the story of the flood. They explain how the dam broke and what happened next. The visitor center helps you learn more about this sad event.
Images for kids
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A tree stuck in a house after the flood
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A sign at the dam site
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Another sign explaining the dam's history
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A sign showing the dam's location
