There is the standard flood watch on our rivers today due to spring thaw and ice jams...nothing new really. But it reminded me to look up the 1936 St. Patty's Day flood. I came across an interesting story written by Bob Batz, our friend at the Post-Gazette who covered the Letterhead meet in Mars.
It features a rather poignant slide show. And some Pittsburgh accents of course. I remember Mam having a tattered old newspaper from that time. People still talk about the flood, tho not nearly as much as they used to. We've had at least two more since but never as deep. I have a blue willow pitcher from Horne's Department Store, which Mom bought at a yard sale in the 1970s. It was brought home by an employee of the store. Because of a chip, it couldn't be sold. Just thought others might find the article interesting, and no, my ancestor did not letter the house boat. Love....Jill
Posted by Kathy Lowry (Member # 7353) on :
I'm surprised that my parents, both native Pittsburghians never mentioned the flood. I've heard many stories of that area. My mom sure did tell me time after time how she had to walk to school uphill & downhill in the snow. "Yins" (sp) be careful up there!
Posted by Bruce Bowers (Member # 892) on :
I remember Horne's departmant Store! It was out at Greengate Mall on Route 30...
I remember Troutman's, too. Downtown Greensburg... Right down the stree from Isaly's.
Posted by Bobbie Rochow (Member # 3341) on :
Wow, thanks Jill, very interesting & sad too.
Posted by Sheila Ferrell (Member # 3741) on :
What a beautiful bridge that was . . . I really enjoy reading such personal historical accounts of things . . . I e-mailed this to me so I can print it.
