1977

Plotting The Pathway of Destruction (Map is from Dam Break in Georgia, © 1978, Horizon House Publishers, Camp Hill, PA 17011) Saturday, November 6, 1977 9:00 p.m. — Members of the Toccoa Falls Volunteer Fire Department became concerned about the rising waters of Toccoa Creek. A lot of rain had fallen and the atmosphere of the usually peaceful seemed to be changing. 10:30 p.m. — Ron Ginther and David Fledderjohann took the Toccoa Falls Volunteer Fire Department truck up to the dam and visually inspected the water level of Kelly Barnes lake. The water appeared to be below danger level

A Week Later In one week’s time, this relatively small community has recovered, partially at least, from this great tragedy. The stories of help and heroism may never be completely told. The stories of hardship and heartache to many families may continue for years to come. One thing survived the flood and has emerged as a great bulwark of strength to everyone who has been a part of this experience. That is the faith and courage of the students, faculty, staff and families of the Toccoa Falls School. Wherever one has had contact with these devout people one has not

In Darkness and Dawn, The story of God’s faithfulness at Toccoa Falls College In 1919, four years after fire destroyed Haddock Inn and nearly destroyed Toccoa Falls College, famed evangelist and composer Paul Rader penned the words of the well-known hymn, “Only Believe.” As he stood looking over the campus, the faith and courage of the students and faculty moved Rader. The last stanza of the hymn affirms God’s presence in times of darkness and dawn. More than 60 years later, that same faith and courage was seen again in the lives of those affected by the devastating flood, which