A trio of commemorative events mark the 50th anniversary of the 1964 flood that devastated Humboldt County. Whether you were there or you've only heard tell, don't miss hearing from historians and locals that are sharing the depth of their knowledge and memories over the next week. (See the Dec. 4 cover story "When the Waters Rose" at www.northcoastjournal.com.)

On Saturday, Dec. 20 at 1 p.m., join local historian Arlene Hartin at the Clarke Historical Museum for a presentation complete with flood artifacts and an exhibit about the disaster and its aftermath, as well as a screening of The Christmas Flood of 1964 video from CalTrans (free).

Hear from scientists and those who lived through the disaster at the 1964 Flood 50th Anniversary Gathering at the Arcata Theatre Lounge on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 6 p.m. ($10). You'll get the full picture of the making of the perfect storm and tales from its survivors. The evening benefits Humboldt County Red Cross.

Finally, on Monday, Dec. 22, stop by the Ferndale Museum and catch a 30-minute showing of The Flood of '64, with interviews and footage of both the disaster and recovery (free). When it's all over, step outside and marvel at the ghost of the high water mark, what the storm took and how much we got back.

— Jennifer Fumiko Cahill