August 13, 2015
HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION OF TOBYHANNA TOWNSHIP
August 13, 2015
Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area, Blakeslee, Pa.
Speaker: John L. Styk, “The Flood of 1955”
Attendance: 31 members and guests
The monthly meeting and annual picnic was held at the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area on Route 115 south of Blakeslee, on Thursday, August 13.
Scarlett Rehrig opened the meeting, introducing Jim Forcella who led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. Scarlett then welcomed all members and guests, and explained the day’s meal of grilled rainbow and brook trout, caught in the Tobyhanna Creek by friends these past couple of months.
Scarlett then introduced Fred Lehrer, who announced upcoming HATT events, including his program, “The White House” on Thursday, August 27 at 5:30 p.m., and the September meeting on September 16 at 10:30 a.m., entitled “The American Presidency,” being presented by Dr. Brian Alnutt. Both are being held at the Clymer Library.
Fred also announced that registrations are now being accepted for HATT’s annual dinner, scheduled for Wednesday, October 16 at 5:30 p.m. Dr. William Lewis will present “Pennsylvanians on the Titanic.”
For the program of the day, Fred introduced John L. Styk, author of “Barrett and Back: From Buck Hill to Vietnam and Back.” John presented his program covering the history of “The Flood of 1955.”
John experienced the flood as a child in Barrett Township. The devastation left lasting impressions of destruction while the community held its spirit and support. His father was involved in rescue efforts, as the streams flooded the villages of Barrett.
Homes and businesses were destroyed, lives were lost and families were displaced. First, Hurricane Connie hit the region, soaking the ground and causing significant run-off. The next week Hurricane Diane unleashed itself, causing the massive destruction experienced on August 18 and 19, 1955, dropping 10 inches of rain in a 24-hour period. John spoke of landslides, typhoid shots and helicopter rescues.
Members brought salads and desert, to supplement the grilled trout and hot dogs provided by Scarlett, who also provided the beverages and tableware.
Submitted by
Rick Bodenschatz
