On April 3, 1974 a violent tornado ripped through a significant sector of Jefferson County, Ind., striking the Hanover College campus at 3:51 p.m. The storm was part of the famed April 3, 1974, Super Outbreak, which included nearly 150 confirmed tornadoes in 13 U.S. states and Canada during an 18-hour period. The episode, which stands as the most-violent weather outburst in recorded history, covered more than 2,600 miles, killed 330 people, injured more than 6,000 people and left thousands homeless. In Jefferson County, two F4 tornadoes killed 11 and left more than 300 with injuries.
The College’s campus was pummeled by the storm, which lasted just minutes, suffering $10 million in damage ($62 million today). More than 30 of its buildings were damaged and two were completely destroyed. All roads were blocked by debris. Electricity, water and telephone service were knocked out. The once heavily forested southern side of campus and Happy Valley were left nearly barren in spots.
April 3, 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of this devastating moment in college history. To document this tragic day, the Duggan Library Archives asks alumni, faculty, staff, and community members to share their stories. Individuals wishing to share their remembrances can do so by following this link: https://forms.office.com/r/Df6snaJHki
Photographs taken by author.
SC121_14_1: View of the Phi Mu House after the tornado.
SC121_14_2: West side of the Phi Mu House after the tornado.
SC121_14_3: Front of the Phi Mu House after the tornado.
SC121_14_4: East...
