Have you ever wondered why a region in the United States is called New Madrid? The name may sound exotic, but it has a fascinating history behind it. In this article, we will dive deep into the origins of the name and explore its significance in American history.
The Founding of New Madrid
New Madrid is a small city located in southeastern Missouri. It was founded in 1789 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodríguez Miró as a trading post along the Mississippi River. The town quickly grew in size and became an important center for trade and commerce.
The Great New Madrid Earthquakes
The most significant event associated with the name New Madrid occurred between 1811 and 1812 when the region was hit by a series of devastating earthquakes. The quakes were some of the most powerful to ever strike North America, with magnitudes estimated between 7.5 and 8.0 on the Richter scale.
The earthquakes were so powerful that they caused parts of the Mississippi River to flow backward temporarily, created large fissures on the ground, and even caused church bells to ring as far away as Washington D.C.
Why Is It Called New Madrid?
Now that we know about the founding of New Madrid and the earthquakes that rocked it to its core let’s answer the question at hand – why is it called ‘New Madrid’?
The answer lies in Spain’s history. During Spain’s colonial period, there was already a city named Madrid in Spain itself. When Spanish explorers arrived at what is now Missouri, they named their settlement after their capital city – ‘Madrid’.
However, when another Spanish governor founded another town along Mississippi River decades later, he decided to differentiate it from its older counterpart by adding ‘New’ to its name – hence ‘New Madrid’.
The Significance of New Madrid
New Madrid may be a small city today, but its history is significant. The earthquakes that struck the region in 1811 and 1812 were some of the most powerful natural disasters to ever hit North America and caused widespread damage and destruction.
Today, New Madrid is known as a place of historical significance, with many museums and monuments dedicated to preserving its past. The town’s name serves as a reminder of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New Madrid is named after the capital city of Spain because it was founded during Spain’s colonial period. While it may seem like an ordinary name, it holds significant historical value due to the powerful earthquakes that struck the region in 1811 and 1812. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about American geography, New Madrid is a fascinating topic worth exploring.