A devastating flood swept through central Texas, claiming the home of 94-year-old Betty Matteson and her family, who have cherished their residence in the Texas Hill Country since 1968. The floodwaters surged along the Guadalupe River, reaching nearly 30 feet and resulting in over 120 deaths, with at least 150 individuals still unaccounted for. As Matteson and her family took refuge in the attic during the July 4, 2023, disaster, they experienced a harrowing journey that marked a turning point for their family legacy.
For decades, Matteson’s home served as a gathering place for her four children, nine grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren. They celebrated milestones and created cherished memories, including a recent wedding held in the backyard last May. “It is a special place to my children and grandchildren and all the friends that have come,” Matteson reflected, emphasizing the emotional significance of their family home.
When the flood struck, Matteson and her family rushed to safety. After several tense hours in the attic, they were rescued by first responders. Although they survived, the house, affectionately known as “Casa Del Rio,” suffered extensive damage, leaving it filled with water and debris. Matteson’s granddaughter, Shannon Swindle, described the situation vividly in a GoFundMe campaign, stating, “The land didn’t just flood; it became a collection point for destruction from all directions.”
The family estimates that rebuilding their home will cost around $500,000. Unfortunately, they did not have flood insurance, as premiums were deemed “nearly impossible” to afford. Swindle explained that many families in the area struggle to keep up with the costs, and in Kerr County, where the flooding was most severe, only 2% of residents hold flood insurance. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), only 4% of homes nationwide are covered by flood insurance.
The rising frequency of flash floods in the region has become alarming. The U.S. Geological Survey indicates an increase in both the frequency and magnitude of such events over the last 20 years. Texas Governor Greg Abbott described the recent flooding as a 1-in-100-year occurrence, although such disasters are becoming more commonplace due to climate change.
Amid the devastation, Matteson and her family are determined to rebuild despite the risks. Swindle articulated the emotional struggle, stating that “saying goodbye is like almost not an option.” Her brother, Barry Adelman, expressed a similar sentiment, emphasizing the deep-rooted connection to the home and the desire for future generations to experience the same joy he had growing up there.
The family is aware of the financial challenges ahead, including the potential lack of sufficient aid from FEMA. Yet, Matteson’s daughter, Sherry Matteson, remains optimistic about their chances to find a way to reconstruct their beloved home. “You can’t live your life afraid of what might happen. You have to live your life the best you can,” she asserted, reinforcing the family’s resolve.
As they navigate the aftermath of this disaster, the Matteson family stands united in their commitment to preserving their legacy, embracing the memories that their home represents, and facing an uncertain future with hope and determination.
