That Day in June : Reflections on the Teton Dam Disaster

by Janet; McCowin Margaret (editors) Thomas

Many things have been written and will be written about the Teton Dam disaster. There will be lengthy stories and reports on the dam itself, the financial losses, the destruction and the rebuilding. But there is another story to be told. It's the story of people and the changes that occurred within them. This is a partial answer to the many outsiders who have queried why it is that these people of the Upper Snake River Valley could react as they did -- with optimism, hard work and courage in the face of such utter destruction. The answer, of course, lies largely in their background, which is semi-rural and Western. But more significance, in the eyes of many, is the fact that the area is predominantly Mormon -- and Mormons have a long history of hardship and adversity.... This then is their story -- a story of people helping each other regardless of station or religious affiliation. It's the story written by those in the actual flood ravaged area and those who helped in the nearly overwhelming job of cleaning up. --- excerpts from book's Preface

309 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1977

Reviews

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very uplifting book on the experiences of Rexburg, Idaho and the Teton Dam Disaster. These very personal experiences are a very moving tribute to these feisty modern day pioneers.

[Madi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The stories shared throughout this book changed my outlook on life. People were so incredibly grateful and humble, despite the trial they went through. What an incredible book!

[Cbedfordrn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is as beautiful legacy for my children. As the daughter in law of Glen Bedford, it provides a unique glimpse of family history and community resolve that affected many extended family members from Rexburg to Blackfoot. I appreciate the recognition of our family grief in loosing three wonderful men. A memoir that has been found no where else.

[Jack]

I live in North Carolina and first passed the site on the way to the south fork of the snake to do some trout fishing. I had read Caddilac Desert
by Michael Riesner and knew of the collapse of the dam.

We so often read of a large nuber of people being killed in some event. Reading about what it was like to experience during and after this flood put a much better perspective on the subject.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing experiences. My son and I visited the site last month and after reading more about it I'm blown away that the people came out of it with such high spirits. I have a few vague memories about my Grandparents house. We are going to go to the museum soon.

[Suzette Kunz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have my own memories of the Teton Dam disaster. It's nice to look back at it as an adult and compare it to other people's experiences. This is simply a compilation of hundreds of first person accounts from throughout the valley.