New Madrid Earthquake
On December 16, 1811, the largest earthquake ever recorded in American history occured. This earthquake is called the New Madrid Earthquake because of its primary location in the New Madrid Fault Zone, near New Madrid, Missouri. This earthquake was followed by others between January 23 and February 7, 1812.
From the effects of the 1811-1812 earthquakes, it can be estimated that they had a magnitude of 8.0 or higher on the not yet invented Richter scale. Large areas sank into the earth, new lakes were formed (notably Reelfoot Lake, Tenessee), and the Mississippi River changed its course due to the earthquakes. Church bells rang in Boston, Massachusetts. The damage was minimal compared to what would happen today.
See also
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