Where Is New Madrid Tennessee?

By Robert Palmer

New Madrid, Tennessee is a small town located in the southeastern part of Missouri. It was named after the New Madrid Fault, which is one of the most active seismic zones in the United States.

History of New Madrid

New Madrid was founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodríguez Miró as La Villa de la Madrid. It was later renamed New Madrid when it came under American control in 1800. The town played an important role during the Civil War and was a strategic location for both Union and Confederate forces.

Geography of New Madrid

New Madrid is located in the Mississippi River floodplain and is surrounded by agricultural land. The town is situated near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, which makes it susceptible to flooding.

New Madrid Fault

The New Madrid Fault, located near the town, is responsible for some of the largest earthquakes in U.S. history. The fault has produced several earthquakes with magnitudes greater than 7 on the Richter scale, including a series of quakes in 1811-1812 that caused widespread damage throughout the region.

Attractions in New Madrid

Despite its small size, there are several attractions worth visiting in New Madrid. These include:

  • The Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site – This historic site features a restored antebellum mansion.
  • The River Walk – A scenic walkway along the Mississippi River.
  • The Higgerson School Historic Site – A restored one-room schoolhouse from the late 1800s.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while not particularly well-known outside of Missouri, New Madrid has a rich history and natural beauty that make it worth a visit. If you’re interested in history or geology, the town’s location near the New Madrid Fault makes it an especially intriguing destination.