A devastating flood in central Texas has left a 94-year-old grandmother, Betty Matteson, and her family grappling with the loss of their cherished home. The historic house, located in Hunt, Texas, was inundated with water and debris during the floods that struck on July 4, 2023. Despite the destruction, her family remains determined to rebuild, valuing the emotional ties to the property that has been in the family for generations.
The Matteson family has celebrated countless milestones at their home over the past 55 years, including weddings and family gatherings. Betty’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have made lifelong memories, from relaxing on the deck to tubing down the nearby Guadalupe River. However, that idyllic scene turned into chaos when rising waters forced Betty, her family, and their pets into the attic for safety as the river surged nearly 30 feet, sweeping through neighborhoods and resulting in over 120 fatalities.
According to Governor Greg Abbott, this flooding event represents a rare occurrence, described as a “1-in-100-year event.” Yet, climate data shows increasing frequency and severity of such disasters. The U.S. Geological Survey indicates that flash floods along the Guadalupe River basin have been more intense over the last two decades. In Kerr County, where the Matteson home is located, only 2% of residents have flood insurance, making recovery efforts more challenging. Betty’s granddaughter, Shannon Swindle, noted that the family lacked flood insurance, which they deemed “nearly impossible” to afford.
The extent of the damage is significant. The cobblestone house, affectionately known as “Casa Del Rio,” is now filled with mud and debris, requiring extensive renovations estimated at around $500,000. Betty, who previously rented out a cottage on the property to help cover expenses, expressed her heartache over the loss. She described the home as a peaceful sanctuary, filled with memories of loved ones, including her late husband, who is buried nearby.
Despite the financial and environmental challenges, the family remains committed to rebuilding. Betty’s daughter, Sherry Matteson, emphasized the importance of not living in fear of future disasters. “You can’t live your life afraid of what might happen. You have to live your life the best you can,” she stated. The family acknowledges the risks associated with living near the river but believes that the emotional significance of the home outweighs the potential for future flooding.
Barry Adelman, Betty’s grandson, expressed a similar sentiment, highlighting the importance of maintaining family traditions for future generations. “It’s a part of my identity,” he said, emphasizing the desire for younger family members to experience the same joy he found growing up there.
The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs of rebuilding. While they are hopeful for assistance from FEMA, they understand that any aid received will likely fall short of their total expenses. As they navigate this challenging period, the Matteson family remains united in their resolve to restore their beloved home, cherishing the memories it holds while facing the uncertain future ahead.