United States of America
U.S. Army · United States United States

Henry Hess

Died July 26, 1874

Henry Hess served in the U.S. Army.

How He Died
Manner Accident
Cause Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened

Constable Henry Hess drowned while attempting to rescue citizens during a flood in Allegheny City.

Heavy rains had caused a stream above O'Hara Street (present day Spring Garden Avenue in Pittsburgh) overflow, which resulted in a large landslide. Constable Hess became caught in the flood waters and drowned as he attempted to rescue several citizens in the area of Concord Street and Chestnut Street.

Constable Hess' body was located along Perry Street the following morning. An estimated 150 to 200 people died in the flood.

Constable Hess was the constable of Allegheny City's Ward 3 for four years. He was a Union Army veteran of the Civil War.

Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
Pennsylvania State Constable - Allegheny County
Constable
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 52W · Line 30 cut as HENRY HESS
In Our Keeping
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Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Constable Hess gave the Pennsylvania State Constable 4 years.

Thank you for your service to the Pittsburgh community. Thank you for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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