In March 1937, a devastating event occurred in New London, Texas, that shook the entire nation. An explosion at the New London Consolidated School claimed the lives of over 300 students, teachers, and staff members. This tragedy remains one of the deadliest school disasters in American history.
The New London School Explosion
On March 18, 1937, a normal school day turned into a nightmare for the students and staff at the New London Consolidated School. The school was located in Rusk County, Texas and was built on top of a natural gas field. The gas was used to heat the building as it was cheaper than using coal or oil.
At around 3:15 PM that day, an explosion rocked the school building. The blast was so powerful that it could be heard miles away.
It caused walls to collapse and windows to shatter. Within minutes, the building was engulfed in flames.
The Aftermath
The explosion claimed the lives of over 300 people – most of them children between ages six and eighteen. Many were killed instantly by the blast while others died from burns or injuries sustained during their escape attempts. Parents rushed to the scene hoping to find their children alive but were met with chaos and devastation.
The tragedy shook not only Texas but also the entire nation. It prompted investigations into gas safety regulations in schools across America. A memorial was erected on site to honor those who lost their lives that day.
The Cause
It was later discovered that a gas leak caused by faulty plumbing had led to a buildup of natural gas beneath the school building. A spark from an electrical switch ignited this gas causing the massive explosion.
After this tragedy, safety regulations were put in place nationwide requiring schools to use odorants in natural gas so leaks could be detected earlier.
Conclusion
The New London School Explosion was a tragedy that shocked the nation and resulted in many changes to school safety regulations. It is important to remember the lives that were lost and the lessons learned from this disaster.