How Much Do You Know About Fort Smith?

Fort Smith is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Fort Smith has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• Fort Smith was established as a military fort in 1817, playing a crucial role in the Indian Removal Act of 1830. It was named after General Thomas Adams Smith who commanded the military unit at the fort.
• Fort Smith was a major stop on the "Trail of Tears," the forced relocation of Native American tribes in the 1830s. The Fort Smith National Historic Site features original and reconstructed buildings from the fort and a museum on the city's history.
• The city was also a hub for law enforcement in the late 19th century, with the famous "Hanging Judge," Isaac Parker, serving as a federal judge. The Fort Smith Museum of History offers exhibits on the city's past, including the history of law enforcement and the military in the area.
• The Clayton House is a Victorian-era mansion open to the public as a museum, showcasing the life of a wealthy Fort Smith family in the late 19th century. The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, the Fort Smith Symphony, and the Fort Smith Little Theatre are all part of the city's vibrant arts scene.
• The city's Riverfront Park offers a scenic view of the Arkansas River and is a popular spot for walking, biking and picnics. The Fort Smith Trolley Museum offers visitors a chance to take a ride on a historic trolley car.
• Fort Smith has a variety of parks and outdoor recreational areas including Creekmore Park, Ben Geren Park and the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center. The annual Fort Smith Arts & Crafts Fair is a popular event that features local artists and artisans.
• Fort Smith is home to the Fort Smith Trolley Museum where visitors can take a ride on a historic trolley car.
• Fort Smith is home to the Arkansas Oklahoma State Fair, which is held annually and features a wide range of events and attractions, including live music, carnival rides and agricultural exhibits.
• The Fort Smith Air Museum showcases the history of aviation in the region, with exhibits and displays of vintage aircraft and artifacts.
• The Fort Smith National Cemetery is the final resting place for many Civil War soldiers and veterans and is a site of historical significance.
• The Fort Smith Convention Center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including trade shows, conferences and concerts.
• The Fort Smith Historic Neighborhoods offer visitors the opportunity to explore the city's rich architectural heritage, with a variety of historic homes and buildings dating back to the 1800s.
• The Fort Smith Riverfront Park Amphitheater is a popular venue for outdoor concerts and events, providing beautiful views of the Arkansas River. (Fort Smith, AR website)
• The Fort Smith Historic District is a designated National Historic Landmark, and features a variety of historic buildings and sites, including the Judge Isaac C. Parker Federal Building, which was built in 1883 and is currently being used as a U.S District Court.

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