Tyler, Texas – Eighty-seven years and one day after the tragic explosion that took the lives of around 300 individuals, mainly schoolchildren, at the New London School in Rusk County, a resolution was adopted by the Smith County Commissioners Court. The resolution proclaims a “day of remembrance” for the neighbors in Rusk County, highlighting the importance of not forgetting the devastating disaster.
Smith County Pct. 2 Commissioner John Moore emphasized the significance of honoring the memory of those impacted by the explosion, noting that while many survivors are no longer with us, their relatives still hold onto the fear that their loved ones and the losses they endured will fade into obscurity. The proposal for the resolution was brought forth by Commissioner Moore, who recognized the lasting impact of the tragedy on Tyler and Smith County.
The connection between the Mother Frances Hospital, which opened a day early to provide aid to the injured in the aftermath of the explosion, and the people of New London remains strong even 87 years later. Hospital leaders gathered in the Smith County Commissioners Courtroom on Tuesday, accompanied by individuals dedicated to ensuring that the events of New London are never forgotten.
Among those advocating for remembrance was Jean Davidson, who lost her husband’s sister in the explosion. She expressed the importance of sharing their story and bringing awareness to the tragic event, comparing it to more widely discussed historical events like the Hindenburg disaster and Amelia Earhart. Davidson believes that receiving the proclamation from Smith County will help shed light on the significance of the New London School explosion and ensure that it is not overlooked in history.