Learn More About New London, Texas
New London, Texas, is a small town situated in East Texas between Carthage and Pittsburg. With a population of just over 2,000, it is a peaceful town that is known nationally for its devastating 1937 schoolhouse disaster, as well as its links to music legend, Don Henley of the Eagles.
To this day the disaster which occurred on March 18, 1937, is the second worst school disaster in United States history. During a school assembly to promote safety, an explosion occurred when a science demonstration exploded, killing all 298 occupants in the school. This event has not been forgotten and a memorial plaque hangs in the town honoring all those lost that day.
Though the town was shaken by the disaster, it later went on to become an industry giant after the discovery of the Daisetta Oil Field. This oil discovery in 1942, brought about great economic progress for the town and forever changed the landscape for the community.
Additionally, the town has had a musical history. The Eagles’ singer, Don Henley, was born and raised in New London. He attended the city’s New London High School and later went on to pursue his musical career. To honor these beginnings, a star has been placed on the school’s grounds, showing his resilience and pride to where he came from.
New London is also part of the Houston metropolitan area and is 45 miles to the capital, Austin. The area has historical charms, with beautiful and peaceful scenery. Along with the designated historic site, a replica of the school destroyed in the 1937 tragedy, there are a handful of museums which can be attended and tours that educated locals and visitors on the region’s past.
New London is a small town with a big history, but one thing remains clear, it is an influential part of the East Texas landscape. The legacy of the disaster, and of Don Henley, will live on forever in this charming and unique town.