On April 3, 1986, Michael Kline interviewed Vittie and Thelma Lipscomb for the Tucker County, West Virginia Flood Audio Recordings project. Vittie Lipscomb, the eldest of ten children, grew up in Pine Run, West Virginia, and later moved closer to school. During the Great Depression, Vittie’s family farmed, selling produce to local mining communities. Vittie later served in World War II, participating in significant campaigns, including the D-Day invasion and the Battle of the Hürtgen Forest. Post-war, he worked in various trades, including furniture manufacturing and dormitory maintenance at Kent State University. Thelma Lipscomb, born and raised in Ravenna, Ohio, met Vittie while he was working in the Arsenal. The two married in August 1942 before Vittie was deployed. They later moved to West Virginia, where they invested in property and built their life together.

In this interview, the Lipscombs recount their experiences during the devastating flood in Tucker County. They describe the rapid rise of the water, which reached the top of their door and necessitated their evacuation by boat in the middle of the night. Vittie details the extensive damage to their property, including the loss of their house and all possessions. He explains the overwhelming force of the floodwaters that moved their home over 500 feet from its original location, ultimately destroying it against a willow tree. The couple also narrates their struggles with FEMA and other agencies in securing assistance post-flood. Thelma reflects on the emotional toll of the disaster, emphasizing the close bond they share and their determination to stay together with their pets. She recalls the moment the water entered their home, describing the swift actions taken to move their belongings and animals to safety.