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New London, Texas

In 1855 with the westward expansion, a post office called London was established and served until 1876. Agriculture was the main source of income. In 1930, the discovery of oil a few miles from the community gave way to the growth of a boomtown, almost overnight. A new post office was established in 1931, but since there was another post office named London in Southwest Texas, New London was chosen.

A tragic school explosion in 1937 killed almost 300 children and teachers. A cenotaph of Texas granite was erected in front of the new school in 1939 in tribute to those who lost their lives in the worst school disaster in U.S. history.

Agriculture, cattle and oil-related business still form the economy.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

London Museum and Tea Room

Located across from the rebuilt school, this small museum recalls the horror of the 1937 school explosion that rocked the nation. Reminders from that day, including clothing, books, and photos, are displayed. A tearoom serves light lunches on weekdays. On Texas 42

New London, TX Museums

Things to do near New London, TX

El Camino Real

"The King's Highway;" first blazed in 1691 by Domingo Teran de los Rios, first provincial governor of Texas. Often called "Ol...

Harrison County Historical Museum

Temporarily housed in the Ginocchio Hotel while the former county courthouse is remodeled. Exhibits depict history of Marshal...

East Texas Oil Museum

Every aspect of the oil boom days of the 1930s is re-created through dioramas, films, sound effects and mementos of the oil f...

Sam Rayburn Hunting Areas

Surrounding Sam Rayburn Lake is approximately 6,000 acres of public hunting administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers....