Bo Haddix
Tucker County, West Virginia Flood Audio Recordings
This series consists of interviews recorded by Michael Kline that document the experience of survivors of the 1985 Tucker County, West Virginia flood. To browse this collection and others, please visit the Berea College Special Collections & Archives: https://bereaarchives.libraryhost.com/
National Capital Contracting
On March 19, 1986, Michael Kline interviewed Ronald (Bo) Haddix for the Tucker County, West Virginia Flood Audio Recordings project. Ronald Haddix, known as Bo, grew up in Parsons, West Virginia, and experienced the devastating flood that struck the area, profoundly impacting his family and community. The interview begins with Haddix describing his family background, noting that his mother, Barbara Haddix, lived in Davis, West Virginia, while he was uncertain about his father's whereabouts. Haddix shared that he grew up with three siblings, a brother, and two sisters, and had moved to Davis temporarily following the flood. Haddix recounts the night of the flood, vividly recalling how authorities instructed them to evacuate their home on Pennsylvania Avenue as water levels began to rise. He describes the chaotic scenes in town, with cars and houses being swept away by the floodwaters. Haddix spent the night helping residents move their belongings to higher ground, assisting people like Gary Lipscomb and Hank Thompson’s family in salvaging their possessions and ensuring their safety. The narrative covers Haddix’s actions during the flood, highlighting his efforts to rescue individuals trapped in their homes and move valuable items out of harm’s way. He recounts wading through chest-deep water to assist Hank Thompson’s wife and children and helping others at Jim Falls' trailer court and elsewhere in the community. Despite the overwhelming devastation, Haddix emphasizes his commitment to helping others, driven by a sense of duty and solidarity. Haddix also reflects on the aftermath of the flood, detailing the extensive damage to his home, which was condemned due to severe mud and water damage. He discusses the emotional toll on his family and the broader community. Haddix shares his thoughts on the community's resilience and the ongoing challenges of recovery. The interview concludes with Haddix reflecting on his time at the Davis Center, where he was placed following a fight. He discusses his experiences in the center, the lessons learned, and his hopes for a better future.
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