Great Sheffield Flood

The Great Sheffield Flood was a major disaster that happened in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England on 11 March 1864. It began when the Dale Dyke Dam burst and released a large wave of water into the Loxley Valley and the city of Sheffield.

 Cause 
The flood was caused by the failure of the Dale Dyke Dam. The dam was being filled for the first time when a crack was seen in the embankment. Soon after, the dam wall broke and millions of gallons of water escaped.

 The flood 
The water rushed down the River Loxley valley. It destroyed homes, factories, farms and bridges in places like Bradfield, Loxley and Malin Bridge. The water then reached the River Don and caused damage through central Sheffield.

More than 250 people died, and thousands were left without homes. It was one of the worst flooding disasters in British history.

 Damage 
The flood destroyed:
 Houses and cottages  
 Workshops and water mills  
 Factories and metalworking sites  
 Roads and bridges  

Many buildings were washed away completely. Fields and farmland were ruined by mud and debris.

 Aftermath 
A public inquiry was held after the disaster. It found problems with the design and building of the dam.

The Sheffield Waterworks Company had to pay compensation to victims and families. New safety rules were later made for building reservoirs and dams.

 Legacy 
The Great Sheffield Flood is still remembered today. There are plaques, memorials and information boards in the Loxley Valley and in Sheffield. The disaster is an important part of the city’s history.

 Related pages 
 River Loxley
 River Don
 Sheffield
 Bradfield, South Yorkshire