Learn More About New London, Texas

New London, Texas is a small unincorporated community located in Rusk County, Texas. Founded in 1898, it has a population of about 200 people and is composed of a small area near Lake Cherokee, in the northeast corner of the state.

The most popular draw to the area is the picturesque New London Cemetary, where veterans and both members and casualties of the 1937 New London school explosion are buried. A natural gas explosion destroyed the school and entire town in an instant, a moment which is remembered and honored through an annual commemoration each March.

New London offers a small-town feel with a strong sense of pride amongst its citizens. The community has a few small convenience stores and a post office, as well as a volunteer firefighter department and a newly constructed fire station. Many of the local businesses are family-owned, including a recent farm-to-table restaurant and the recently opened New London Distillery.

Outdoor activities in the area abound, with plenty of opportunities for fishing and boating in Lake Cherokee, swimming, waterskiing, or birdwatching. Additionally, the City of New London is home to a number of historic and modern attractions, such as a historic blues museum and a lovely city park, where locals play disc golf and take peaceful walks outdoors.

The rural neighborhood feels like a throwback to simpler times, but with its excellent proximity to Longview, Kilgore, Henderson, and the larger Tyler area, the New London community is able to enjoy all the benefits of living in the Texas countryside without having to sacrifice convenience. While New London may lack the hustle and bustle of a larger city, its peace, safety, and access to a wide array of recreational activities make it a topnotch hometown and an excellent option for those looking to escape big city life.