Dam Disaster Plaque: A Memorial to Loss
Reflect on the St. Francis Dam disaster at this memorial plaque, a poignant reminder of a tragic chapter in California's history and the importance of engineering responsibility.
The Dam Disaster Plaque commemorates the tragic St. Francis Dam failure of 1928, one of California's worst civil engineering disasters. Located on San Francisquito Canyon Road in Santa Clarita, the plaque marks the site where the dam once stood, a mile and a half north. The collapse sent over 12 billion gallons of water roaring down the Santa Clara River valley, resulting in over 430 lives lost and widespread devastation. Today, visitors can reflect on the magnitude of the disaster and learn about its impact on the surrounding communities. The site offers a somber yet important reminder of the power of nature and the importance of responsible engineering. While the dam's remnants are scattered, the plaque serves as a focal point for remembrance and reflection, set against the backdrop of the canyon's natural beauty. It's a place to pay respects and contemplate the lessons learned from this historical event.
A brief summary to Dam disaster plaque
- 32300 San Francisquito Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, California, 91390, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the site and exploring the nearby trails.
- Bring water, especially if you plan to hike, as the area can get hot and dry.
- Take time to read the historical information provided at the plaque to understand the significance of the site.
- Consider visiting the site in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
- Be respectful of the site and its history, remembering the lives lost in the disaster.
Getting There
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Driving
From Santa Clarita, take Copper Hill Road east towards San Francisquito Canyon Road. Turn left onto San Francisquito Canyon Road and continue for approximately 9 miles. The Dam Disaster Plaque will be on the right, near the Angeles National Forest fire station. There is a parking area available. Be aware that San Francisquito Canyon Road has some sharp curves and steep grades. Trucks are not recommended.
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Public Transport
While public transportation directly to the plaque is limited, you can take Santa Clarita Transit Line 3 to the intersection of Sierra Highway and Soledad Canyon Road, then transfer to Line 4. However, this will only get you closer to San Francisquito Canyon. From there, the remaining distance to the plaque is considerable (several miles) and would require a long walk or taxi/ride-share. Consider ride-sharing services from Santa Clarita for a more direct route. A taxi or ride-share from the Sierra Highway and Soledad Canyon Road to the Dam Disaster Plaque would cost approximately $20-$30.
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Reflect on the St. Francis Dam disaster at this memorial plaque, a poignant reminder of a tragic chapter in California's history and the importance of engineering responsibility.
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