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Fort Smith National Historic SiteTheme(s): Native American | Westward Expansion | |
Description:
Fort Smith National Historic Site embraces the remains of two frontier forts and the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. Commemorating a significant phase of America's westward expansion, it stands today as a reminder of 80 turbulent years in the history of Federal Indian Policy.
The main entrance to the Visitor Center is located on the south end of the Barracks/Courthouse/Jail building. Exhibits in the visitor center focus on Fort Smith’s military history from 1817 – 1871, Judge Isaac C. Parker and the Federal court’s impact on Indian Territory, U.S. Deputy Marshals and outlaws, Federal Indian policy, and Indian Removal including the Trail of Tears. “Hanging Judge” Parker’s courtroom has been restored with reproduction 1880s court furnishings. The original “Hell on the Border” jail located beneath the courthouse and used from 1871-1889 has been restored. In the main exhibit area, a partial, full-sized replica of the 1890s jail interior has been built using the original historic blueprints.
Several audio/visual programs are featured in the visitor center. The park’s 15 - minute orientation film is shown in the first floor theatre. A 15 - minute film about the deputy marshals who served Judge Parker's court can be viewed in one of the recreated jail cells. Three video stations provide opportunities for visitors to hear Native American perspectives on the Trail of Tears, Indian Territory, and traditional culture.
Designations:
National Historic Landmark (December 19, 1960)
National Historic Site (September 13, 1961)
National Register of Historic Places (March 7, 1986)
Unit of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail (December 16,1987)
Accessibility:
The main entrance to the Visitor Center is located on the south end of the Barracks/Courthouse/Jail building. Most park facilities are accessible to persons with mobility challenges. If you require assistance, please notify park staff. A wheelchair is available for use at the site.
Getting Around:
Maintained trails lead visitors through this urban park. A trail also leads to the site of the first fort and along the Arkansas River. The main entrance to the Visitor Center is located on the south end of the Barracks/Courthouse/Jail building.
Activites:
Educational Programs | Wildlife Viewing | Bird Watching | Nature Walks | And more.
Facilities:
Visitor_Centers | Museum Exhibits | Tours & Guided Activities | And more.
Directions to Fort Smith National Historic Site
Plane:
Fort Smith is serviced by the Fort Smith Regional Airport. Direct flights are available to Fort Smith from Memphis, and Dallas-Fort Worth. From the Regional Airport follow Interstate 540 to the Rogers exit, and follow Rogers Avenue to the Downtown area.
Car:
From Interstate 40 Eastbound: Exit at Roland, and drive six miles on highway 64.
From Interstate 40 Westbound:
From Interstate 540 & Fayetteville:
Access by Interstate Highway 40 to U.S 64 and Interstate Highway 540 to Highway 22.
In the downtown area:
On Garrison Ave turn south at Fourth street. Stay on fourth for three blocks and turn right onto Garland Ave. At the end of the next block is the entrance to the main parking lot. Parking is also available on Third street.
Public Transportation
A taxi service is available in the Fort Smith area.
The City of Fort Smith operates a Trolley bus that visits all museums and attrations in the downtown area. The trolley bus starts from the city's visitor information center.
Attractions:
Fort Smith Museum of History
Phone:501-783-7841
Miss Laura's Visitor Center
Fort Smith Trolley Museum
Phone:501-783-0205
Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center
Phone:918-962-2062
Fort Gibson State Historic Site
Phone:918-478-4088
Nearby Parks:
Pea Ridge National Military Park (90 miles)
Hot Springs National Park (130 miles)
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield (240 miles)
Buffalo National River (240 miles)
Central High School National Historic Site (160 miles)
Oklahoma City National Memorial (185 miles)
Chickasaw National Recreation Area (210 miles)
Vicksburg National Military Park (390 miles)
Jefferson National Expansion Memorial (470 miles)
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