Texas Town Mourns During Nation’s 250th Celebration

A year has passed since catastrophic flooding in the Texas Hill Country claimed 139 lives. Communities along the Guadalupe River are still in the process of rebuilding.

In Ingram, Texas, the Guadalupe River flooded last July, resulting in significant loss of life and property. This week, the river’s banks tell the story of both devastation and ongoing recovery.

On Tuesday morning, in Hunt, Texas, a small Hill Country community, Cynthia Vlasek approached the Guadalupe River. The retired nurse, who survived the floods, viewed the calm waters with reverence and sorrow. ‘It feels wrong to get in the river yet,’ she murmured. ‘For locals, it’s sacred.’

While many Americans celebrate the country’s 250th birthday with festivities, grief hangs over the Fourth of July events in this region. Small gatherings in Hunt, a memorial unveiling in Kerrville, and mental health support stations are part of the subdued celebrations.

Vlasek, 63, described her struggle to celebrate. The first anniversary of the floods is marked simply by the loss and ongoing recovery in Hunt. This picturesque area, known for its rugged landscapes and summer camps, bore severe damage. In Hunt, debris clogged tree branches and littered Highway 39.

Numerous homes and businesses were destroyed or severely damaged. Most devastation and loss of life occurred in Kerr County, including 25 campers, two counselors, and a camp’s executive director from Camp Mystic.

Rebuilding has been a slow process in Hunt over the past year. Many homes, resorts, and R.V. parks along Highway 39 still lie empty, under construction. Vlasek recalled how floodwaters approached her property, complicating her attempts to return to normal life.