Nick Lampson: “Today I introduced a concurrent resolution in memory of the 100th anniversary of the devastating hurricane which struck…”

“Today I introduced a concurrent resolution in memory of the 100th anniversary of the devastating hurricane which struck Galveston, Texas, on September 8, 1900. The residents of Galveston showed great courage and sacrifice during that terrible storm, and I thought it was important for Congress to recognize that that same spirit is still present in the people who live there today; and I wanted to join them as they honor the memories of those who lost their lives on that historic day 100 years ago. In an era without radar, satellites or modern radio, the island of Galveston was quickly overtaken by vast waves, surging flood waters and powerful winds of more than 120 miles per hour. The hurricane that struck Galveston is the deadliest natural disaster in the history of the United States of America. It is estimated that more than 6,000 people lost their lives in a matter of a few hours. Prior to the storm, Galveston was a thriving port community of 37,000 people and was dubbed the Wall Street of the West. Stories from the survivors of the storm are filled with displays of courage and self-sacrifice in the face of grave danger. One of the most famous is the one about the nuns who ran the orphanage. As the winds and storm tides got higher, it became obvious that the last building would collapse. The nuns tied the children to themselves with clothesline, eight or nine kids to each nun, in a sad, brave effort to try to save them.”