Large Tanks on a Tilt during 1936 Flood, Hartford

PhotographerPhotographed by Thomas F. Oakes American, 1900 - 1966

Date1936

MediumPhotography; gelatin silver print on paper

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (image height x width): 2 3/8 x 4 1/8in. (6 x 10.5cm)
Sheet (height x width): 2 3/4 x 4 1/2in. (7 x 11.4cm)

ClassificationsGraphics

Credit LineGift of Nora Howard

DescriptionFlood waters near a brick commercial building. In the background two large oil tanks on a tilt, laying against a bank of dirt. In the foreground at left a chain link fence. Utility poles and wires visible.

Object number2001.21.12

MarkingsOn verso: in center, stamped in green ink: a fountain, with "FOUNTAIN / PHOTO SERVICE / APR 13 1936"; stamped in purple ink: "724"InscribedOn verso, in pencil: top left, "1936.3"; bottom left, "[Hartford - Flood of 1936]"; accession number at bottom right.NotesSubject Notes: In March 1936, heavy rainstorms combined with melting snow led to severe flooding of the Connecticut River and its tributaries. Most of downtown Hartford along the Connecticut River and the Park River were inundated. Fourteen thousand people were left homeless, several were dead or missing, and epidemic desease threatened the population. The rainstorms continued for nine days. Overall damages exceeded $100 million. It was the most expensive weather event in New England up to that time.

Subject Terms