Newman & The 1906 Earthquake

Next year, 2026, will mark the 120th anniversary of the Great San Francisco Earthquake, a devastating event that struck the Bay Area on April 18, 1906. While the earthquake's impact was felt throughout the region, Newman also experienced significant destruction, with the West Side of the community being rattled by the quake's powerful tremors.

When the INDEX published its edition on April 21, 1906, the headline read "Earthquake and Fire," reflecting the shock and devastation that followed. One of the newest buildings in Newman, the Levy Dobrzensky building, collapsed just moments after the initial shock. The south wall of the structure fell outward, crushing the harness shop operated by J.F. Wedel. The dry goods department of Jules Cain Co. was also hit hard, with stock thrown from the shelves and scattered across the floor, while some damage occurred to the grocery store's stock. 

Other structures were also affected by the tremor. The Southern Pacific (S.P.) water tank fell, with the twisting motion of the earthquake snapping its iron supports. The Newman Water Company's large tank, though severely strained, remained standing, though it twisted several feet out of alignment.

Newman residents shared dramatic stories of survival. John Anderson, for example, was sleeping in a tank house filled with 5,000 gallons of water when the earthquake struck. The tank ruptured, flooding his room. Anderson managed to escape by leaping from his bed and swimming down the stairs. Additionally, many residents who had family that were in San Francisco at the time of the quake didn’t know their fate until they safely returned to Newman. When they stepped off the train, they brought with them harrowing tales of the destruction and loss of life they had witnessed.

The memory of the 1906 earthquake continues to resonate in the area, and as we approach the 120th anniversary in 2026, it’s a time to reflect on the resilience of the communities that endured the destruction, including Newman, and to honor those who lived through such a life-altering event.

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