Hoover Dam Construction Fatalities Statistics

In this post, we explore the sobering statistics surrounding the construction of the Hoover Dam, a monumental engineering feat that spanned from 1931 to 1936. Despite its grandeur, the dam’s construction was marred by tragedy, with 96 documented fatalities and additional deaths due to various causes. Join us as we delve into the details of this significant chapter in American history.

Statistic 1

"The construction of the Hoover Dam started in 1931."

Statistic 2

"The Hoover Dam was completed in 1936."

Statistic 3

"The official death toll is 96 workers during the construction of the Hoover Dam"

Statistic 4

"The first fatality happened on December 20, 1922, 9 years before actual construction began"

Statistic 5

"The last fatality occurred on December 20, 1935, the year the dam was completed."

Statistic 6

"Hoover Dam construction fatalities include workers who died from causes unrelated to construction, such as pneumonia and heart failure."

Statistic 7

"More than 20,000 men worked on the Hoover Dam."

Statistic 8

"There were no official records of deaths from "pneumonia" in county records."

Statistic 9

"Sixteen workers and an unknown number of tourists have died from falls at the dam since it was completed."

Statistic 10

"According to a water education foundation, The Bureau of Reclamation lists 13 reasons for deaths during construction, including heat exposure and drowning."

Statistic 11

"In late 1932, around 42 Hoover Dam workers had succumbed to a mysterious illness labeled as "pneumonia"."

Statistic 12

"While construction companies initially blamed deaths on natural causes or pre-existing conditions, lawsuits eventually revealed "tunnel disease" or carbon monoxide poisoning was the likely cause."

Statistic 13

"Many of the Hoover Dam workers were unskilled laborers from across the United States, especially the southern states."

Statistic 14

"Albert D. Brown was the only African American who died during the construction of the dam."

Statistic 15

"Incredulously, there have been cases where workers survived after a fall from considerable heights during the construction of the Hoover Dam."

The statistics surrounding the construction of the Hoover Dam offer a poignant glimpse into the harsh realities faced by the workers involved. From the significant official death toll of 96 individuals to the lack of records for certain fatalities, the dangers and challenges of constructing such a monumental feat are evident. The diversity of the workforce, the various causes of death, and the eventual uncovering of the true reasons behind the fatalities shed light on the complexity of this historical project. While some workers tragically succumbed to illness or accidents, others miraculously survived falls from great heights. The construction of the Hoover Dam stands as a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of progress.