In July 1889, the Chemung River rose 21 feet and 2 inches above its normal level and wrought destruction along its banks, particularly in Elmira. The total damage exceeded $1 million dollars (equivalent to $31 million in 2022).
Water Street [1889]. Courtesy of the Steele Memorial Library and the Chemung County Historical Society.
The visible businesses include G.A. Gridley & Sons Hardware and Brophy & MacMahon Clothiers
Spectators on a Bridge as the River Rises. Courtesy of the Steele Memorial Library and the Chemung County Historical Society.
The Chemung River rose to the bottom of this bridge in Elmira, and local residents stood on the bridge, looking at the water.
Flooded Neighborhood. Courtesy of the Steele Memorial Library and the Chemung County Historical Society.
Here, a residential neighborhood with its street and sidewalks are under water.