Wooden crosses, representing the victims of a the 1937 blast, surround the cenotaph during the Day of Remembrance memorial program Saturday, March 16, 2024, in New London. A planned memorial service to remember the 88th Anniversary of the London School Explosion of March 18, 1937 is to be Tuesday, March 18 at 2:15 p.m. at the foot of the London Cenotaph, Highway 42, in New London.(Les Hassell/Kilgore News Herald)

In the heart of New London, the London Museum & Café stands as a place of solace and remembrance. This town treasure is dedicated to the memory of the nearly 300 students and teachers who lost their lives in the devastating school explosion on March 18, 1937.

A recent donation allowed for preservation of the museum. Meanwhile, an upcoming event at the museum commemorates the 88th anniversary of the explosion.

Helpful donation

For decades, the museum has honored those lost and celebrated the resilience of the survivors.

However, the building itself had begun to show its age. One persistent issue was a leaky roof that, if left untreated, could have impacted the very artifacts that told the stories of that fateful day and its aftermath. The leaks were particularly problematic around the vent hood pipe, where water would trickle down.

Recognizing the importance of the museum, Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) stepped in to help donating the necessary funds for repairs. With this support, the museum was able to fabricate and install steel flashing around the vent hood pipe, effectively sealing off the leaks and safeguarding the precious memories housed within its walls.

“This museum is a vital part of our community’s history,” said Lisa Rogers, manager of the London Museum. “SWEPCO’s support has been invaluable in preserving the artifacts that tell the story of the 1937 explosion and its impact on our town.”

This isn’t the first time SWEPCO has offered assistance. On March 18, 1937, news of the incident quickly reached the company’s Henderson and Kilgore offices, and within 45 minutes, several employees were on the ground to assist initial rescue efforts following the explosion, according to an April 1, 1937, edition of The Southwestern — SWEPCO’s monthly magazine. Working alongside Humble Oil Company and L.E. Meyers Company, they set poles for floodlights to illuminate the wreckage, enabling rescuers to uncover survivors and recover bodies. Once the area was lit, SWEPCO employees also assisted in pulling the wreckage, ensuring a thorough and efficient search.

“Our team was honored to be part of the rescue efforts back in 1937,” said Mark Robinson, SWEPCO external affairs manager. “And we are equally proud to support the London Museum today, ensuring that the memories and lessons from that tragic event are preserved for future generations.”

88 years later

As the 88th anniversary of the school explosion approaches on March 18, the museum welcomes visitors to stop by and learn more about this significant event in history. By visiting, you can pay tribute to those who lost their lives and appreciate the resilience of the New London community.

On March 18, the museum will offer free tours and host a “Day of Remembrance” beginning at 2:15 p.m. at the Cenotaph monument situated on a median on Texas 42 midway between West Rusk High School and the London Museum, 10690 S. Main St. The event includes an address by Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Pastor Pete Thompson, laying of flowers and playing of Taps at 3:17 p.m. — the exact time of the school explosion.

Participating in the ceremony are Laurie Burns, pastor at London Methodist Church; the Overton Boy Scout Troop No. 319; the West Rusk Stage Band; Pete Thompson, pastor at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church; and Fred Parsons, pastor at Overton Methodist Church.

Refreshments will be served at the London Museum following Taps.