When Was New Madrid MO Founded?

By Alice Nichols

When Was New Madrid MO Founded?

Located in the southeastern part of Missouri, New Madrid is a small city with a rich history. The city is named after Madrid, Spain, and was founded in the late 1700s during the Spanish colonial period.

Early History

The region that encompasses present-day New Madrid was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Chickasaw and Quapaw. However, in 1789, Spanish Governor Esteban Rodriguez Miró established a fort on the Mississippi River and named it “Nuevo Madrid” (New Madrid).

The settlement quickly grew as it became an important trading post for fur trappers and farmers. In 1800, New Madrid became a part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase.

Earthquakes

One of the most significant events in New Madrid’s history is a series of earthquakes that occurred between 1811 and 1812. These earthquakes were some of the strongest ever recorded in North America and caused widespread destruction throughout the region.

The quakes were so powerful that they caused parts of the Mississippi River to flow backward temporarily. The area around New Madrid still experiences minor earthquakes to this day.

Growth and Development

After the earthquakes, New Madrid began to rebuild and grow once again. By the mid-19th century, it had become an important port on the Mississippi River, with steamboats bringing goods and people to and from St. Louis.

In 1865, during the Civil War, Union troops occupied New Madrid as part of their campaign to control strategic points along the Mississippi River.

Recent Years

In more recent years, New Madrid has continued to thrive as a small city with a vibrant community. The city has a rich musical history, with many famous musicians hailing from the area, including blues legend Johnnie Johnson.

Today, New Madrid is home to around 3,000 residents and continues to be an important hub for agriculture and shipping. The city also boasts several parks and outdoor recreation areas for residents and visitors alike.

Conclusion

Overall, the history of New Madrid is one of resilience and growth. Despite facing challenges such as earthquakes and war, the city has continued to evolve and thrive over the centuries. As we look towards the future, it will be exciting to see what new developments and achievements lie ahead for this historic Missouri town.