History Forum: The Epic True Story Film Made in Santa Cruz

Celebrated film archivist James Mockoski recently completed the restoration of the Johnstown Flood 1926, with a cast including Janet Gaynor, Carole Lombard and Clark Gable. The silent film, shot in Santa Cruz, has scenes of today’s still vibrant Congregational Church of Soquel and an authentic lumber mill of the era. Based on the true story of careless overreach by rich industrialists, a massive rainstorm breached the Johnstown Pennsylvania dam and a wall of water killed 3000 people. Mockoski describes it as “the granddaddy of disaster films” with much relevance for today, especially in Santa Cruz County with our long history of major flood events.

Presenter: James Mockoski

History Forum’s annual speaker series provides its members with public lectures by leading historians and authors about Santa Cruz County history. Each talk lasts approximately one hour, followed by a meet and greet with refreshments.

This series is for History Forum members only. If you are interested in joining, please click here to learn more.