Tornado damage (Sangamon Valley collection)
The storm that forever repudiated the theory that Springfield was immune to tornadoes occurred at 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday, June 14, 1957.
The storm — later designated as F4 in severity — swept through the south side of Springfield, killing two people — Mrs. Paul Farley, 60, and Anna Belle Larson, 37 — and injuring more than 50 others. Property damage was estimated at $3 million; 25 homes were destroyed and 175 others badly damaged.
A wind gust of 98 mph was recorded during the storm, still a record as of 2013.
“This tornado … ended the myth that Springfield was tornado-proof because it was in a bowl,” reported the Illinois State Register the next day.
More information: Tornado folder, Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library
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