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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


Mississippi River Observation Deck

Stroll down the 120 foot observation deck and view the one of a kind 20 mile long "Bessie Bend" of the Mississippi River. Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the mighty Mississippi and see an interpretive exhibit on the Civil War Battle of Island No. 10

New Madrid, MO Natural Attractions

Things to do near New Madrid, MO

St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern Railway

Antique steam and diesel train ride through rolling countryside. Enjoy James Gang robbery, magician, Bonnie and Clyde or dinn...

Cape Rock Park

Cape Rock is the spot where young ensign Jean B Girardot came and traded with the Indians. The spot became known by traders a...

St. Francois State Park

This park, rich in Civil War lore, consists of rugged Pike Run Hills. Canoeing on Big River, camping, hiking, equestrian trai...

Bollinger Mill State Historic Site

The 140-ft., self-supporting, Howe-truss bridge, one of four covered bridges left in the state, is located next to gristmill....

Malden Municipal Golf Course

Course Access: PublicHoles: 9Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes...