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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

Gladewater Saturday Night Opry

Toe-tapping country/Western music show and comedy stage show every Sat. night. Free gospel show on Fri. night. ...

Old Stone Fort

The museum is housed in a 1936 replica, built on a new site, of Don Antonio Gil Y'Barbo's stone house. Y'Barbo, founder of Na...

Rusk/Palestine State Park

Each of the two units of the park offers outdoor fun and recreation, such as camping, hiking, picnicking, and pedal boating, ...

Caddoan Mounds State Historic Site

A chief archaeological site in Texas. Park includes two ceremonial and one burial mound, visitor center with exhibits, interp...

Witness Park and Prayer Tower

A gift to the city from businessman Bo Pilgrim, the tower features four Paccard bells from France and a chapel that never clo...