Forsyth, MT

Since 1878, when the first structures were built along the Yellowstone River at the future site of Forsyth, the town faced concerns about high water. In 1918, rising floodwaters on the Yellowstone River threatened Forsyth, and more than 500 men worked for 36 hours to keep water out as much as possible, but in the early hours of June 16 a hastily constructed levee gave way. Water rushed into the west end of town and flooded the entire area north of the railroad tracks, with every basement flooded to the floor joists, 2 to 3 feet of water flowing through ground floors and low-founded buildings, and currents washing away streets, fences, and sidewalks. Boats became the only means of transportation, while downtown businesses remained open as customers and employees waded through 6 to 12 inches of water, and citizens took shelter in hotels, spare rooms in the business district, or with local ranchers and farmers. The flooding lasted until July 5, leaving destruction behind, although a two-block section of Main Street remained relatively dry because temporary berms were quickly constructed. Within a week after the waters subsided, citizens met to discuss building a new water system, sewer system, levee, and sidewalks, and soon also began planning for a new hospital. In 1944, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began the process of constructing a levee for Forsyth, and construction was completed in 1948. About 2 1/2 miles long, the levee surrounds the city on the west and north sides, separating it from the Yellowstone River, and Forsyth has avoided significant flood damage since its construction.

Forsyth, Montana · United States