Sanderson Flash Flood

Historical marker location:

300 U.S. Hwy 90, Sanderson, Texas

( In the lot west of the Sanderson Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Hwy 90 (E. Oak St.), E of 1st St., south side)

Marker installed: 2015

On the fateful morning of June 11, 1965, just after 7:00 a.m. following a night of continuous rain, a wall of water with a velocity of 100,000 cubic feet per second crested upon the railroad and ranching community of Sanderson. Twenty-six were killed during the natural disaster, demolishing around sixty homes, injuring dozens and causing many to be homeless. The force of the water washed away railroad and highway bridges and twisted heavy steel rails. Along with the destruction, there were also acts of heroism. Individuals risked their lives to save others and citizens quickly organized to provide relief to victims. (2015).