The 1916 flood in San Diego was a significant natural disaster that had a profound impact on the city and its surrounding areas. It began in late January and continued into February 1916, causing widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and farmland. The disaster not only resulted in a loss of life but also triggered major changes in the region's water management and flood control systems, ultimately shaping the city's approach to managing such disasters in the years to come. Remarkably, the 1916 flood was often closely associated with the enigmatic figure of Charles Hatfield, known as the "Rainmaker."

Resources:

1. Photographs:

2. Documents:

• 19260122 Doc184333 Communication from F. A. Binney re Rainmaker
• 19410117 Doc 325922 Before the Board of Engineers for Rivers and Harbors War Department
• 19671002 Communication re Placing a Historical Landmark for Charles Hatfield

3. Additional Resources:

Exhibition: IT’S RAINING MAN! (By San Diego History Center)

For Middle & High School Students:

Tools:

    1.  Analyze a Photograph          2.  Analyze a Document

Lesson Objectives:

To educate students about the 1916 flood in San Diego, its causes, consequences, and the role of Charles Hatfield in the event.

Lesson Preparation:

• Maps of San Diego County
• Pictures and historical images of the 1916 flood
• Videos or documents about the 1916 flood

Lesson Procedure:

• Step 1: Introduction

-Begin by discussing the concept of natural disasters and their impact on communities.
-Show students pictures and maps of San Diego County to provide context.
-Share a brief overview of the 1916 flood and explain that it was one of the most significant natural disasters in the region's history.

• Step 2: Analyze the Causes of the 1916 Flood

-Discuss the geography of San Diego County, emphasizing its proximity to the ocean and mountain ranges.
-Explain how these geographical features can contribute to heavy rainfall and flooding.
-Talk about the seasonal weather patterns in California and how they played a role in the flood.

• Step 3: Introduce the Role of Charles Hatfield

-Introduce Charles Hatfield and why he's known as the "Rainmaker."
-Describe the drought conditions in California and San Diego's desperate need for rain.
-Discuss Hatfield's rainmaking methods and the decision to hire him to induce rainfall.
-Present the events that led to the heavy rains and the flood, including the controversy surrounding Hatfield's involvement.

• Step 4: Analyze the Consequences of the 1916 Flood

-Explain the devastating consequences of the flood, such as loss of life, property damage, and infrastructure destruction.
-Discuss how the flood prompted changes in San Diego's approach to flood control and water management.

• Step 5: Ask students to research and write a short essay on a specific aspect of the 1916 flood or Charles Hatfield's role.

Summary:

The 1916 flood served as a turning point in San Diego's history, prompting the city and the state of California to take a more proactive approach to flood control and water management. Charles Hatfield's role in this event remains a fascinating and mysterious chapter in the annals of weather modification and its consequences.