Flood of 1927
Was 80 Years ago

Houses on River Street in Bethel were tossed about like empty boxes by the 1927 flood. The photograph is from the book "Floodtide of 1927" by L. B. Johnson, then the editor of The Herald.

Eighty years ago this Saturday, Vermont experienced the greatest natural disaster in its recorded history—the 1927 Flood.

Following a wet October, which had saturated the ground, torrential rains began to fall Saturday and almost all of that terrible night. When it was over, a majority of the bridges in Vermont had been destroyed (including every bridge over the White River but one) and dozens were dead—26 in little Bolton alone.

The White River Valley suffered a devastating blow, as described in Herald Editor L. B. Johnson’s book, "Floodtide of 1927." In particular, the village of Gaysville was wiped nearly entirely from the map—factories, churches and all the homes except those overlooking what had been the village.

The next story following this one is a first-person recollection written by Muriel A. Durkee, who lived at the the time on School Street, just about across the street from the recreation field (where the tennis courts and pool are). It was provided to The Herald by Janet Durkee (Mrs. Calvin) Osha, who is the daughter of Muriel Durkee—and who thus is part of this narrative. She now lives in Sebring, Florida.

Muriel Durkee’s account well evokes the surprise by which the torrent overtook them, then an understandable denial about the scale of what was happening, out in the pitch dark night around the family, then the terror that followed. We thank Janet Osha for sending this manuscript for what is its first public puclication.

Booklet for Sale

In observance of the 80th anniversary of the Flood of 1927,
The Herald is making available a limited number of copies of the flood booklet, The Challenge.

Published in 1928, this is a fascinating illustrated account of the devastating impact of the flood on the valley of the White River between Bethel and Rochester, focusing on the near-total destruction of the Peavine Railroad.

"The Challenge" was published by Roy L. Johnson, son of Herald Publisher L. B. Johnson. The 28-pabe, 7" x 10" booklet, with 30 dramatic photographs, was published as part of a fundraising effort that rebuilt the railroad in record time.

"The Challenge" offers a pocket history of the Peavine Railroad itself, vivid descriptions of the flood, and an inspiring account (including donor names and dollar amounts) of the rebuilding efforts.

To purchase your copy of this rare historical treasure, send a check for $17.50 to The Herald of Randolph, P.O. Box 309, Randolph 05060.

The Historical Societies of Bethel, Stockbridge and Rochester also will have a few copies for private sale.