Lawrence County Tornado of May 9th, 1927

Northeast Arkansas is no stranger to severe weather events, much like the rest of our state. Nestled into the northeast portion of our state sits Lawrence County. On May 9th, 1927, Lawrence County experienced the worst tornado of the modern era. A volatile storm system swept across the southern United States killing 230 people and injuring nearly 800. In Lawrence County, 28 people sadly lost their life when a series of individual tornadoes touched down in Egypt, Smithville, Imboden, Arbor Grove, Hoxie, Walnut Ridge, and the surrounding communities. Walnut Ridge and Hoxie were among the areas most severely damaged.

Ariel view of tornado damage in Walnut Ridge

This large tornado entered the southwest side of Hoxie at approximately 3:00 PM. The first structure hit was the newly constructed high school that had just opened in January 1927, now the site of the new Hoxie Mustang Gym which was built in 2012. The top floor of the three story school building was destroyed. The gym on the south side of the school building was also demolished. Two girls, were killed instantly and several others were injured when falling debris struck them.

Hoxie High School tornado damage

The tornado continued to churn, tracking northeast towards the county seat in Walnut Ridge. Damage was less significant in Walnut Ridge, compared to the city of Hoxie. Information regarding the tornado as it moved through the town of Walnut Ridge is somewhat limited. Below are additional photographs of damage in Walnut ridge and Hoxie:

Information and graphic credits: http://www.encyclopediaofarkansas.net/encyclopedia/entry-detail.aspx?entryID=2377# - http://ataleoftwotowns.com/