Introduction
Growing up in Rockbridge County, Virginia, I was surrounded by tales of Hurricane Camille, the catastrophic storm that ravaged our state in August 1969. Known locally as the ’69 flood, it claimed 153 lives and caused over $1 billion in damage (adjusted for 2024 dollars), particularly affecting our neighbors in Nelson County.
Discovering the Past Through Family Stories
My fascination with this disaster began as a young boy when I discovered a scrapbook containing photos of the extensive damage to my grandfather’s service station in Buena Vista. This personal connection sparked my lifelong interest in the event.
Insights from “Torn Land”
In “Torn Land,” a book by Paige Shoaf and Jerry H. Simpson published in 1971, I was struck by the descriptions of the overwhelming damage caused by over 25 inches of rain falling within just five hours, leading to devastating floods and landslides. The book vividly portrays how these events obliterated small communities in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Community Resilience and Support
The accounts of how locals and volunteers across the nation rallied to support the affected communities were particularly moving. Despite the absence of FEMA at the time, the collective effort from diverse groups, including the Mennonite community and Marine Corps, highlighted an incredible national response to the crisis.
Writing “It’s Coming Down”
Inspired by these stories, I penned the song “It’s Coming Down” from the perspective of a child caught in the chaos of the storm, intertwining their fear with biblical imagery of Noah’s Ark. The song explores themes of fear, faith, and the harsh realities faced during the storm:
Never seen it rain this hard
Out here in Nelson we ain’t got no Ark
The narrator is terrified and asks their mother if they will live through the storm.
Mama tell me, will we be alright?
Will I get to see another day?
Or will we all be washed away?
In the third verse the narrator sees a landslide and again thinks of God and begs for help.
My legs are shaking like the ground
As the Blue Ridge tumble down
And swallow whole my world beneath
Lord Jesus, will you help us please?
Incorporating Historical Narratives
The emotional weight of the song is further enhanced by incorporating quotes from a 1999 film made by the Virginia State Police, narrated by Master Trooper Ed Tinsley, which includes firsthand accounts of the aftermath and rescue efforts.
The Legacy of Hurricane Camille
“It’s Coming Down” is not just a reflection on a historical event; it’s a tribute to the resilience of human spirits in the face of natural disasters. It serves as a reminder of both the fragility and the strength of our communities.
Listen now on any streaming service!
As you listen to “It’s Coming Down,” remember the real stories of those who lived through Hurricane Camille. Reflect on the resilience and community spirit that helped rebuild lives and how we can apply these lessons to current and future challenges.
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