The Great Storm of Galveston made landfall on September 8, 1900. Now known as the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history, the storm claimed between 10,000 to 12,000 lives. Marking the 125th anniversary of the storm, the City of Galveston is hosting a number of events throughout the month including exhibitions, tours, and lectures in remembrance of the lives lost.
This past Saturday, September 6, the city set out to break a Guinness World Record for the longest human walkway. The Gulf Coast city called upon the masses to make it happen, inviting 8,125 people to line up along the Seawall between 23rd and 61st street as a tribute to the victims.
“Together, we will stand as a living tribute to resilience, remembrance, and community pride,” organizers wrote.
Lo and behold, the people showed. According to an Instagram post from Galveston, Island, the city broke the record for the Longest Walkway stretching 10 miles and 1,584 feet (16.58 km). The previous world record was set in Bayshore Boulevard in Tampa, Florida, at 4.5 miles.
The post accompanied a photo of the Guinness World Records Certificate placed on the Great Storm Statue at 4901 Seawall Blvd.
“The seawall that was built after the great storm that protects Galveston today, has this morning been certified as the longest walkway in the world at 10.3 miles,” said Tony Lyle, Visit Galveston Executive Director.
The City of Galveston will continue to hold events in remembrance of the Great Storm. Events slated for this month include the Galveston Wind stage play presented by Galveston Lighthouse Productions at the Scottish Rite Cathedral between September 9 to September 13.
On September 11, Eric Berger of Space City Weather will host a lecture at The Bryan Museum. Additionally, on September 12, organizers will host the 10th Step Tour of the 1859 Ashton Villa where visitors can hit learn more about the stories of people who endured the great storm.