Cleta and Norman Long
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 December 17, 1985, Michael Kline interviewed Cleta and Norman Long for the Tucker County, West Virginia Flood Audio Recordings project. Cleta and Norman Long are long-time residents of Tucker County. In this interview, the Longs recount the night of the flood, detailing the rapid rise of the waters and the ensuing chaos. They describe the frantic efforts to save their belongings and ensure the safety of their family. Norman recalls the sound of the rushing water and the surreal sight of their property being submerged. Cleta provides an emotional perspective on the loss of their home and the immediate aftermath of the disaster. The Longs also discuss the broader impact of the flood on their community. They highlight the solidarity and resilience of their neighbors, who came together to support each other in the face of immense hardship. The interview delves into the challenges of rebuilding their lives, from dealing with insurance and government aid to the emotional toll of starting over. Finally, they reflect on the changes in their community post-flood, noting the physical reconstruction and the enduring sense of community spirit.
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