MILLCREEK FLOOD
August 3, 1915

Erie’s most significant natural disaster struck on August 3, 1915. Afternoon showers released a record-breaking 5.4 inches of precipitation in less than 6 hr. As the waters rose, saturated banks released trees, barns, chicken coops and outhouses into the swollen Millcreek, which normally flowed freely through the downtown. Debris clogged the 26th Street culvert, forming a reservoir extending the distance of four blocks. By 8:30 p. m. a “great roar” was heard. Immense pressure caused the culvert to give way, releasing millions of gallons of wreckage-filled water into the path of Millcreek. The flood waters cut a deadly path three miles long and six blocks wide.

Fireman John Donovan was one of the first victims. He tried to save the life of Fire Chief John McMahon, but died in the attempt. He was the first Erie Firefighter to die in the line of duty during this natural disaster. The Fire Chief died three weeks later of pneumonia and injuries sustained from the flood.

By 1921 a 24’x 18’ reinforced concrete and steel tube had replaced the natural path of the Millcreek stream, preventing another disaster like the Millcreek Flood of 1915 from ever happening again.