NEW LONDON, TEXAS — In the small East Texas community of New London, the tragic legacy of a devastating explosion in 1937 continues to resonate among its residents. Jean Davidson, whose husband lost his sister in the catastrophe that claimed nearly 300 lives, has been actively involved in commemorating the event for the past 25 years.
Despite the passage of time, the memory of the explosion, which remains one of the nation’s greatest tragedies, was not openly discussed in the town. It wasn’t until a marble cenotaph was erected in the town as a memorial that the story began to be told more openly.
Guest speaker John Moore, reflecting on the impact of the explosion during a recent memorial event, highlighted how the community had long chosen to remain silent about the tragedy. He credited a documentary in 1973 for sparking a renewed conversation about the events of that fateful day.
With the formation of an alumni association in 1977, the story of the New London explosion began to be shared more widely. For Davidson, volunteering at the West Rusk Alumni Association and London Museum and Cafe provided an opportunity to connect with the past and with people who had known her husband’s lost sister.
As the annual memorial program continues to grow, Davidson hopes to expand its reach beyond just former students to encompass the entire East Texas community. The significance of honoring the history and memory of those who perished in the explosion remains a vital part of the town’s identity and sense of unity.
Through events like the “Day of Remembrance,” the community in New London pays tribute to those who lost their lives in the tragic explosion, ensuring that the stories of their lives and the event itself are never forgotten. With a commitment to keeping the memory alive, the town stands together to honor the past and embrace a shared history.