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Events on March 18 in history

New London School explosion
1937Mar, 18

The New London School explosion in New London, Texas, kills 300 people, mostly children.

On a tragic day that remains etched in Texas history, March 18, 1937, the community of New London was forever scarred by a catastrophic event known as the New London School explosion. This devastating incident occurred when a silent and undetected natural gas leak led to a massive explosion, completely destroying the London School building located in New London, Texas, United States. The horror of that day claimed the lives of an unfathomable number of individuals, with more than 300 students and teachers perishing in the blast. It was a tragedy that sent shockwaves across the nation, highlighting critical issues in public safety and infrastructure.

The scale of the disaster was immense, making it one of the deadliest in the annals of Texas. As recently as 2021, the 1937 New London School explosion is recognized as the third-deadliest disaster in the state's history. It stands as a somber benchmark, surpassed only by the catastrophic 1900 Galveston hurricane, which remains the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history, and the devastating 1947 Texas City disaster, a monumental industrial accident involving ammonium nitrate. The memory of the London School tragedy continues to serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safety regulations and vigilance.

Frequently Asked Questions About the New London School Explosion

What happened at the New London School?
On March 18, 1937, the London School in New London, Texas, was destroyed by a massive explosion caused by a natural gas leak.
When did the New London School explosion occur?
The disaster took place on March 18, 1937.
Where is New London, Texas?
New London is a community located in Rusk County, Texas, United States.
How many people died in the New London School explosion?
More than 300 students and teachers were tragically killed in the explosion.
What caused the explosion?
The explosion was caused by a natural gas leak that accumulated within the school building.
What is the historical significance of this event?
As of 2021, the 1937 New London School explosion ranks as the third-deadliest disaster in the history of Texas, underscoring its profound impact and historical importance.

References

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Events on 1937

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  • 21Feb

    Spanish Civil War

    The League of Nations bans foreign national "volunteers" in the Spanish Civil War.
  • 12May

    United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

    The Duke and Duchess of York are crowned as King George VI and Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in Westminster Abbey.
  • 27May

    Golden Gate Bridge

    In California, the Golden Gate Bridge opens to pedestrian traffic, creating a vital link between San Francisco and Marin County, California.
  • 22Jul

    Judicial Procedures Reform Bill of 1937

    New Deal: The United States Senate votes down President Franklin D. Roosevelt's proposal to add more justices to the Supreme Court of the United States.