Flood of 1918

the Flood of 1918

A resident living in Ellsworth took many photos when the city flooded in 1918.
These photos show the inadequate drainage system after much rain in 1918.

Drainage Problems in Ellsworth

Much of Iowa before the great drainage projects of the early 20th century was swampland. There were no bridges across the many streams feeding into the larger rivers; and in the spring when the rivers would flood, this was often a harrowing experience not only to the settlers traveling in the area, but also to the towns.

Many of these photos are labeled June 4, 1918.

On the back of this photo, it says,
One boat load at Ellsworth's one day summer resort on "Lake Ellsworth"

Mildred Reynolds on her water pony.
This was taken from Risetter's corner ouside of old lady Bergeson's.

Washout at West end of Brinton Road bridge

Millie Fjetland Taylor recalls conditions in the town of Ellsworth. There was a pond that extended from their house to the school house, a distance of two and one half blocks. Before sidewalks were built, S.G. Johnson built a high wood sidewalk across a pond so he could get to his store on Main Street. Once a big rain caused it to float away.

She took this from the boat. No, she didn't either. She took it from the crossing between Rissetter's and Mrs. Crow's.
You know Gallagher's oldest house on our street? Looking east when taking the picture. Some stretch of water. What?

Mildred Reynolds on her water pony.
This was taken from Risetter's corner ouside of old lady Bergeson's.

This scene is close to the Skunk River bridge, looking south.

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