New Madrid Earthquake

The New Madrid Earthquakes of 1811-1812

Based on eyewitness accounts and geological evidence, seismologists estimate the New Madrid earthquake to have been 8.0 on today’s Richter scale. The shock waves were felt from the East Coast to the Rocky Mountains, and from southern Canada to northern Mexico.


Old map of Missouri with explorer's compass.

October 1, 1812

The first meeting of the general assembly of the Missouri Territory took place, which named the five original counties: St. Louis, St. Charles, Sainte Genevieve, Cape Girardeau, and New Madrid.


The Bicentennial Quilt Project

Bicentennial project tells the story of Missouri.


Smithsonian Magazine

December 16, 1811

The first shocks occurred in the largest earthquake ever to shake North America. It was centered on the New Madrid Fault in Missouri. Read More about this in Tales From Missouri and the Heartland.


New Madrid County

February 14, 1789

Colonel George Morgan and seventy colonists established the city of New Madrid on this date.