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Today in History: Great Dayton Flood claims over 360 lives, devastates homes

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 21, 1913, the Great Dayton Flood devastated Dayton, Ohio, killing over 360 people and destroying 20,000 homes. This catastrophic event prompted the Ohio General Assembly to pass the Vonderheide Act, leading to the establishment of the Miami Conservancy District, one of the first major flood control districts in the U.S.

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Story summary

On March 21, 1913, the Great Dayton Flood devastated Dayton, Ohio, killing over 360 people and destroying 20,000 homes. This catastrophic event prompted the Ohio General Assembly to pass the Vonderheide Act, leading to the establishment of the Miami Conservancy District, one of the first major flood control districts in the U.S.