On or about 2:00 PM on this date in 1911, the Bayless Dam burst destroying most of the community of Austin, Pennsylvania, situated two (2) miles south in the Freeman Run Valley.
This tragedy is currently the second worst flood disaster in the history of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Johnstown flood being the worst.
At the time of the flood, Austin was a prosperous and growing community with a population in excess of 2,900 people. Employment opportunities were plentiful.
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| The Dam Ruins located approximately two (2) miles north of the community of Austin on Route 872 |
Learn more about this fascinating community dubbed
"The Town Too Tough to Die" by purchasing the following books, publications and media available at the
E.O. Austin Home/Historical Society Museum located on Main Street in Austin.
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| Read more about Gale Largey the author of The Austin Disaster, 1911. |
Today, the population of Austin is approximately 650 people.
The Austin Area School District is the smallest public school in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with a student population of approximately 200, including Pre-K through 12th grade.
Come spend a day with us and enjoy the beauty of the Freeman Run Valley.
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