During World War II, Oregon built an entire city for wartime laborers. Around 40,000 were living there before a flood erased it from the map within hours

Vanport was established as a temporary haven for wartime laborers near Portland, and it burgeoned into a vibrant community within a mere six years, accommodating thousands. Tragedy struck in 1948 when a catastrophic flood obliterated the city, leaving its residents scrambling for safety and new homes. Today, the area once known as Vanport is commemorated as a peaceful park and a racing venue.