South Carolina Hurricane, Apr 1884

COLUMBIA, S. C., April 2.---A terrific hurricane prevailed all day in various parts of South Carolina. Around Columbia the damage to property has been great, and four or five persons are reported killed. Two colored people in Lexington county saw the storm and began propping up the house, when it was blown down, crushing them to death. A small white boy was also killed by falling timber. The storm struck Columbia about noon. Houses were unroofed and fences and trees blown down. It struck the northeast corner of the statehouse, tearing off a part of the roof and overturning two massive chimneys. Heavy debris was strewn around and forced through the roof into the representative's chamber, causing damage. The shock was so great that a heavy moulding[sic] in the executive chamber loosened and fell, nearly striking Governor Thompson, and Colonel James G. Gibbs, the only occupants of the room. The Palmetto monument in the statehouse yard, was badly injured. Reports from various localities tonight represent great loss of property and life. West of Columbia tonight lurid forest fires prevail over a large area. Great damage is feared. The wind at a late hour to-night is blowing a gale.

Passengers arriving to-night from Camden state that the town was visited by a hurricane. Great damage to property, but no loss of life. Forest fires are raging around the town and the populace are out fighting the flames. It is rumored that Timmonsville, on the Wilmington and Columbia railroad, was completely wrecked by the cyclone and many persons killed and wounded. Details cannot be had because all the wires in that direction are down.

The Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta, GA 3 Apr 1884
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Transcribed by Linda Horton. Thank you, Linda!