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New Madrid, Missouri

Colonel George Morgan, a former Revolutionary War officer attempted to found New Madrid as the capital of the Spanish Enpire. He became interested in a colonizing venture within the Spanish domain on the western side of the Mississippi River. But in order to make their position more secure, the Spanish were anxious to have Americans settle west of the river. Arrangements were made to receive a grant of land containing twelve to fifteen million acres. Gathering his party of settlers, Morgan traveled down the Ohio, advertising as he went. He was attracted to a small French Trading Post, known as L'Anse a la Graise or "Cove of Fat" because of the abundance of bear meat processed there. This spot he selected as the site for New Madrid, the capital of his colony. Much more known for it's earthquake, New Madrid is the epicenter for the largest recorded earthquake in North American history. On December 16, 1811, the people of New Madrid were startled by the first of a series of violent quakes. A continual agitation of the earth occured until the hard shock on February 7, 1812. You will find information about the quakes at the local musuem along. While there be sure to walk out on the Observation Deck and read about the quakes and the Civil War Battle of Island No. 10.

Attractions and Upcoming Events


Higgerson School Historic Site

Restored to the one-room school that operated at Higgerson Landing on the Mississippi River in 1948

New Madrid, MO Historic Schoolhouses


Hunter-Dawson Park

Nice shady park with a paved and lighted walking trail, new four baseball field complex, soccer, volleyball, playground equipment, gazebo and covered picnic/

New Madrid, MO Recreation

New Madrid Historical Museum

The New Madrid Historical Museum occupies the former Kendal Saloon, 1886. Exhibits reflect the culture of this ever changing river town from the Mississippian Indian period through the great earthquakes of 1811-1812, New Madrid's role in the Civil War and the early 20

New Madrid, MO Museums

Things to do near New Madrid, MO

Rush Linbaugh Hometown Tour

Self-driving tour will take you past sites that influenced Rush's early years....

Dorena, MO - Hickman, KY Riverboat Toll Ferry

A unique opportunity to experience the wonder and beauty of the Mighty Mississippi. The toll ferry operates daily and year-ro...

Malden Historical Museum

American Indian artifacts, Egyptian collection, WWI, WWII, Korean War, fashions from early 1800s to 1900s, railroad, swamp cl...

Lambert's Cafe

Catch the fun at one of Missouri's most entertaining eateries. From the festive atmosphere, mule-ish decor and flying food, t...