'' The Johnstown Flood : The Incredible Story Behind One of the Most Devastating Disasters America Has Ever Known '' is a 1968 book written by popular historian David McCullough about the Great Flood of 1889 which devastated the town of Johnstown , Pennsylvania . His first book , McCullough spent time speaking with individuals who lived through the flood on top of his other research in preparation for writing . Upon its publication '' The Johnstown Flood '' rekindled national interest in the flood and was the catalyst to McCullough 's accomplished career . Following the success of his book , McCullough decided to devote his time entirely towards writing
Great Flood of 1889
Johnstown Flood
The Johnstown Flood (book)