We’ve looked at the most musical town as well as the most artistic town but today’s focus is a little different. This particular town didn’t change after celebrities visited like in Walnut Ridge, nor did the town develop a niche later on like Eureka Springs. Fort Smith has progressed and developed throughout the centuries but the Wild West simply never left. Let’s look at some of the lingering western elements that make this city unique.
Dubbed "Hell on the Border," Fort Smith is Arkansas' true West town.
The insult-turned-catchphrase came from Anna Dawes, daughter of Senator Henry Dawes, in 1885. Her article lambasting the jail at the time caused Congress to pass funding for a new Fort Smith prison.
Even in modern times, this city reflects its old west heritage.
The legendary Bass Reeves was one of the first black lawmen west of the Mississippi River. He arrested over 3,000 lawbreakers during his time as a marshal.
The Western town is also inspirational for many books and movies such as True Grit and Lonesome Dove.
The city just turned 200 and is hosting all sorts of events in celebration.
From concerts to reenactments, you can keep up with the happenings right here.
This odd hybrid of urban development and Old West preservation will really make you think, "Life's worth living in Fort Smith, Arkansas."
Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. in Library Science. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite.
