The tornado struck St. Louis and left 118 people dead. It was one of the most deadly and destructive tornadoes in US history. It hit the Eads bridge, among a number of other historic places, and caused more than ten million dollars (not adjusted for inflation) in damage.

This post was contributed by Ross Malone. A historian and a retired school teacher, Ross has authored many books about Missouri’s history, weird facts, and folk tales. He has also written children’s historical fiction. Visit his website, and buy his books in the Missouri Life store.