The Shuttleworth Collection

The Shuttleworth Collection | The Destructive Storm and Flood

Introduction to the booklet '22 Views Of The Destructive Storm And Flood' - text version

The views in this album will give some idea of the disastrous nature of the flood that overwhelmed Ilkley on Thursday afternoon, July 12th. A thunderstorm of extraordinary severity was the first indication of coming disaster accompanied by a two hours' heavy and persistent downpour of rain, which in a very short time converted the four streams flowing through the township from the Moor in fierce raging torrents, causing loss of life and the destruction of much valuable property of all kinds, from the demolition of business premises, houses, and bridges, downwards. The damage is variously estimated at figures ranging from £50,000 to £70,000. In its destructive effects, the flood is believed to be unparalleled in the history of the valley.

The reproductions are from photographs taken by Ernest Shuttleworth, Ilkley.

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