Preston, MN Waterspout, May 1902

WATERSPOUT IN MINNESOTA.

Four Deaths by Drowning; One by Lightning----Great Property Loss.

Preston, Minn., May 19.---A waterspout struck near Preston last night, flooded the country for miles around and caused death by drowning of four children of Wilbur Wilbright, near Forestville and the death by lightning of Alderman Gonkey of Preston. The property loss is heavy. Reports from the western part of the county say it was one of the worst storms ever witnessed. In the township of York farmers lost a great deal of stock and near Granger about 20 buildings were demolished.

Reports from the western par[sic] of the county say it was one of the worst storms ever witnessed in that section. Farmers lost a great deal of stock, and near Granger about 20 buildings were demolished. Eight feet of water swept over Preston, moving eight or 10 houses from their foundations. The Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul tracks were washed out for four miles out of Preston and the depot twisted around.

Idaho Daily Statesman, Boise City, ID 20 May 1902
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Transcribed by Linda Horton. Thank you, Linda!