125 Years Ago

Herald of June 21, 1894

A heavy rain storm passed over the Cove area, doing considerable damage. The downpour was described as “constant for about half an hour, and the great volume of water surpassed anything of the like before.”

Several farmers reported severe crop damage, and imbers that had been cut to build a new bridge in McKees Gap were swept away by flood waters.

Hail and severe thunderstorms were reported in Roaring Spring, but damage there was lighter than in other areas of the Cove. Lightning struck at least one residence in the area, starting a fire that destroyed the structure.

Calvin Johnson, 44, of Williamsburg, died at his home from Bright’s disease. He was a prominent citizen of the town.

Several Martinsburg citizens, in an attempt to highlight the musical history of the town, proposed a band stand to be built in the area known as the Delta, where South Market and Locust streets joined. The ground had already been secured, and work could begin immediately if the town council agreed.