This deadly storm hit New England during September 1938. Its unforgiving ferociousness extended well beyond its eye which travelled up through the middle of New England (about 100 miles east of Boston).

The storm all but destroyed a great many poles and lines throughout southern New England. Shown are crews from the Hingham Light Plant and other town departments working hard to clear downed trees along Main Street near the town's center. Before the hurricane this stretch of roadway was beautifully lined with majestic tall elm trees. The utility's wires were carefully strung through them to avoid burning when in touch with branches and for service reliability as well. Most of the pole line construction that stood in this photo had long alley arms supporting the wires for ample clearance. A halfway knocked-down pole stands in the background.

Nearly all of the town's residents lost service. Many poles and transformers were knocked down and needed replacement. After a week of non-stop restoration efforts service was restored to most customers within a week. Fortunately the town utility had a reserve account and these funds was used to pay for the storm repairs.