September 1886 Charleston, USA Images

Generally referred to as August 31, 1886, as the earthquake occurred at 9:51 pm local time. Eight minutes later there was a severe aftershock. This was the most damaging earthquake to occur in the southeastern U.S. and one of the largest historic shocks in eastern North America. Structural damage was reported within several hundred kilometers from Charleston, and long-period effects were observed at distances exceeding 1,000 kilometers.