Ninety years after the devastating 1935 earthquake in Helena, Montana, we reflect on its impact, the destruction it caused, and the lessons learned in disaster preparedness and building resilience.
On the night of October 18, 1935, Helena, Montana, experienced a seismic event that would leave a lasting mark on the city and its residents. As we commemorate the 90th anniversary of this significant earthquake, we delve into the memories, destruction, and the lessons learned from that fateful night.
The earthquake struck at 9:48 p.m., registering a magnitude of 6.2. Peggy McMahon, who was just a child at the time, recalls the chaos: "The lights went out and ladies were screaming." She and her brother sought refuge in a closet as the tremors rocked their world. The quake lasted only 12 seconds but caused extensive damage, destroying hundreds of homes and buildings, including the newly constructed Helena High School.
In the weeks following the initial quake, Helena continued to experience tremors, culminating in a powerful 6.0 magnitude aftershock on October 31. This aftershock caused further destruction, collapsing buildings that had already been weakened. Sean Logan, a Helena City Commissioner, described the aftermath as unlike anything he had seen before, with extensive damage leaving hundreds homeless.
The earthquake's destruction forced the community to adapt quickly. With Helena High School severely damaged, students were relocated to makeshift classrooms in donated train cars. The total damage from the earthquake was estimated at over $4 million in 1935, equivalent to more than $94 million today.
The earthquake fundamentally changed Helena's architectural landscape. Many buildings were constructed with unreinforced brick, which proved inadequate during the quake. In response, building codes were revised, and new construction techniques were adopted. The clock tower at the county courthouse was removed, and brick siding on homes was replaced with stucco to prevent future damage.
The memories of the earthquake are still vivid for those who lived through it. Former mayor Steve Kim recalls standing in the doorway of his home, witnessing the destruction firsthand. Many stories have been passed down through generations, highlighting the resilience and determination of Helena's residents. Debbie Sternberg shared her grandfather's harrowing experience of witnessing a wall collapse on a person while driving home from work.
While Helena was fortunate that the death toll was not higher, four lives were lost due to the earthquake. David Hunter was crushed by a collapsing wall, while Charles Siglink died from injuries sustained when debris struck him. Two brickmasons, Bernard Kennedy and Edward O'Brien, were killed during the aftershock while working at the Kesler Brewing Facility.
The 1935 earthquake prompted significant changes in how Helena prepares for disasters. Today, the city has a dedicated disaster and emergency services department that utilizes lessons learned from the past to enhance preparedness. Emergency alerts, temporary shelters, and triage facilities are now part of the city's response plan.
Building techniques have evolved significantly since 1935. Modern structures are designed with reinforced materials to withstand seismic events. Architects and engineers now prioritize safety, ensuring that buildings can endure the forces of nature. For instance, Central School was replaced after a study revealed it was at risk for catastrophic failure during an earthquake.
Helena is located within the northern part of the intermountain seismic belt, which contains numerous faults. Dr. Patricia Heiser from Carroll College explains that the area's complex geology contributes to its seismic activity. The 1935 earthquake was one of the most destructive in U.S. history, and understanding the science behind earthquakes helps residents prepare for future events.
The Helena fire tower, heavily damaged during the 1935 earthquake, stands today as a symbol of the city's resilience. Restored after the quake, it serves as a reminder of what Helena has overcome and its commitment to building a safer future.
As we reflect on the 90th anniversary of the 1935 earthquake, it is essential to remember the lessons learned and the resilience of the Helena community. The stories of survival and adaptation continue to inspire future generations as they prepare for the inevitable challenges posed by nature. Helena's journey from devastation to recovery showcases the strength of its people and the importance of preparedness in the face of disaster.
