PBS Logo NPR Logo
Public Media for Central Pennsylvania

 

The Johnstown Flood

A painting of fires and wreckage caused by the Johnstown Flood of 1889.

The Johnstown Flood of 1889 was one of the worst natural disasters in American history. It caused an unprecedented level of destruction and loss of life. But what was the cause of this horrific event, and could it have been avoided? And what do the circumstances around the flood, and its recovery, teach us about the best and worst of human nature?

Past PA illuminates the history of Pennsylvania. This digital series will bring a deeper understanding of important events that people have likely heard of but might not know very much about, and help people learn new stories about well-known events. Many of the events and individuals throughout the Commonwealth’s history have important lessons to teach us today.

Support our shows » Get our newsletter »

 

More Episodes

A painting of Union troops fighting during the Civil War.

John Burns, Hero of Gettysburg

5/17/23 | 7m 28s

The face of a stone angel in a cemetery.

The White Lady of Wopsy

5/17/23 | 8m 11s

A painting of people from the 1700s America loading barrels of whiskey into a wagon.

The Whiskey Rebellion

5/17/23 | 7m 16s

 

« Digital Home Page