Grand Rivers, KY Tornado, Mar 1890

Paducah, Ky.- A terrific cyclone struck the little town of Grand Rivers, twenty seven miles east of this city, and nearly swept the place away. Grand Rivers is the new manufacturing town just about being established by Boston capitalists. It is situated in the mineral wealth of southwestern Kentucky, and was growing rapidly, and preparations were being made for a big sale of property next week. The cyclone came upon the town, preceded by a heavy fall of hail. It came quietly and was gone in a few moments, but in that time a dozen houses were leveled and as many more wrecked.

MRS. HATTIE BECK was hurled 200 yards and was killed. JOHN ETHERIDGE, a boy, was crushed to death by a falling house. Nineteen others were injured, but only one seriously. Houses were swept from over entire families, while no one was hurt. A terrible roar preceded the cyclone and followed its departure. Passing from Grand Rivers, the tornado struck the railroad bridge over the Cumberland River, half a mile beyond, and tore away a span and toppled the draw into the river, thus cutting off all trains. All telegraphic lines were destroyed and only through a relief train sent out from this place could facts be learned.

The New York Times, New York, NY 30 Mar 1890

--------

MRS. HATTIE BECK was hurled 200 yards and killed and JOHN ETHERIDGE , a boy, was crushed to death by a falling house. Nineteen others were injured but only JEFF KOONS seriously. Houses were swept as kindling over entire families while no one was hurt.

The Charlotte News, Charlotte, NC 31 Mar 1890
__________________

Transcribed by June. Thanks June!