Although it may not be detailed in every textbook, Arkansas is filled with fantastic stories from the past. Some historical figures' pasts have been glazed over and others have been nearly forgotten altogether. Let's look at some of the wild happenings from Arkansas' history you might not find in history books.
Most folks know we have a silly law that prohibits Arkansas from being pronounced as "Ar-Kansas" but that's usually the end of the state name trivia. The names of Arkansas and Kansas are both based on the Siouan word "kká:ze" which means "people of the south wind;" however, Arkansas can thank the French for the different pronunciation. Two Arkansas senators fought over the pronunciation in 1881 which resulted in the bizarre law we have today.
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2. The first movie shot in Arkansas was rather unexpected.
"A Face in The Crowd," "The Legend of Boggy Creek," and "Uncle Tom's Cabin" may come to mind as the earliest films shot in Arkansas but there's one that goes back even further. "Hallelujah," filmed in 1929, has the first movie scene ever filmed in our state. Surprisingly, it was one of the first movies with an all-black cast that was backed by a major Hollywood studio. The musical earned director King Vidor an Oscar nomination, but unfortunately, the film has mostly been forgotten.
We've persevered through tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes but the weirdest weather phenomenon happened in 1973. A severe hailstorm rained over Stuttgart with large, irregular shaped hail, storms, and intense winds. The storm also picked up and rained down the most unexpected thing —
ducks! More than one hundred frozen ducks fell to the ground, some completely frozen but others just crippled and confused. Needless to say, it ruffled a few feathers.
4. We've had some interesting figures throughout history...
Carrie Moore, the self-proclaimed "Joan of Ozark," was a radically violent religious woman. She held an absolute intolerance towards alcohol, which was understandable since she was married to an alcoholic at one point; but, she took her intolerance to a new level not seen by anyone in the mid-1800s. After a bizarre marriage to David Nation, Carrie continued to follow what she believed to be God's calling. She changed her name to Carry A. Nation, gained a religious following, and (most notably) would raise absolute hell in any alcohol-serving establishment. Her hatchets, named Faith, Hope, and Charity were used to smash bottles, chop tables, and put the fear of Carry into every patron. You can visit her last house, the Hatchet Hall, at 35 Steele St. in Eureka Springs.
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5. ...although we've forgotten the darker side of some...
In my hometown, Albert Pike is a name you don't think twice about. We have an elementary school and main thoroughfare named after the Confederate general but apart from knowing his involvement in the Battle of Pea Ridge, the details were always left a bit fuzzy in school. Although his Indian cavalry initially won the battle, Pike's troops were accused of going wild (read collecting scalps) and abandoning the Confederacy during a counterattack. In addition to this, Pike was charged with absconding and mismanaging money and resources. He fled to the hills of Arkansas but was caught and imprisoned in Texas. Oddly enough, he released after the War Office finally received his letter of resignation. Once he returned to Arkansas he became a founding figure of the KKK. Whether or not he actually started the Klan is still debated but he was listed as a chief judicial officer in its publications. Overall, he's one figure whose history has been edited down over the years.
The city of Jonesboro nearly fell apart in the 1930s but has one man to thank for its rescue. In December 1931, all five of Jonesboro's banks had financially collapsed because of the Great Depression. Between this and the Jonesboro Church War of 1931, the city was in turmoil. Morris Berger, a key businessman in the city, made the decision that would save Jonesboro. Over the years, he had founded the first furniture company and supermarket in northeast Arkansas as well as a Jewish synagogue and cemetery. In January, he gathered his family and their wealth to open the Mercantile Bank on Main Street. The bank became the foundation for the city's development and protected Jonesboro from collapse. You can see the Berger House located at 1120 South Main Street in Jonesboro.
7. Sometimes our history is standing, arms open, right in front of us.
Everyone in Arkansas is familiar with the Christ of the Ozarks, the gargantuan 65-ft. sculpture is the tallest point in Eureka Springs. The history of its creator, however, is not as well known. Gerald K. Smith first gained his fame in the political sphere. He accused President Eisenhower of planning Jewish world domination and that he backed the Jewish media invention of the holocaust. After some failed attempts at running for various political positions (can't imagine why he was unpopular), he retreated to Eureka Springs to construct a religious theme park. The only portion that was completed was the giant statue and outdoor passion play. The play, thankfully, has been altered from the German original it's based on and is now a popular attraction. Smith and his wife are buried in a vault next to the giant statue. Who knew that such a tourist trap came from such dark and wild beginnings.
8. Not all of our history has a dark backstory though, some figures just slip through...
Hattie Caraway had an interesting introduction to politics that would end with her becoming the first woman elected to the Senate. Her husband, Thaddeus Caraway, was elected as an Arkansas state representative in 1912. In 1920, he became an Arkansas senator and served until his death in 1931. The most unexpected thing happened next, governor Harvey Parnell asked Hattie to fill her husband's Senate seat. What's even more unexpected was that she won re-election in 1932. During her time as a senator, Hattie worked on the Equal Nationality Treaty of 1934 and sponsored the Equal Right Amendment.
In 1918 Mena welcomed a new doctor to town, Dr. Victor Mayfield. The doctor's office was the rented out the second story above the Central Meat Market Shoppe on Main Street. Victor quickly became a beloved town figure, he was well known for being a sharp dresser and ladies man. His business grew rapidly from word of mouth, everyone knew how reassuring and calming he was. He served Mena for years and earned the title "the cancer doctor" since he eased the fears of so many with the disease. In 1926 the doctor fell ill and the townspeople finally called upon a neighboring doctor since Victor had not come out in days. After Dr. Vandiver examined Mena's favorite doctor, a shocking discovery came out — Dr. Victor Mayfield was actually a Victoria! Unfortunately, the scandal was not well received by Mena residents and after her death in 1929, Dr. Mayfield was buried in an unmarked grave.
Arkansas has a fascinating history that shouldn't be forgotten or glazed over. Share your interesting historical tidbits with us in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
We don’t give enough attention to the Arkansas River Valley, but guess what, I’m certainly changing that. The area has some incredible places that we will be showcasing. Today, we are featuring the Old Bank Sports Bar in Russellville. As the name indicates, the building was once used as the Bank of Russellville. This century-old historic building is now a trendy sports bar in Arkansas. And with trivia nights, live music, great food, and incredible drinks, it’s a great spot for a girl’s night out or a romantic evening. Check it out!
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We love it when folks preserve Arkansas' history by repurposing old spaces to bring something new and trendy to the community.
For instance, the Bank of Russellville building was built back in the 1880s and after a multi-million-dollar renovation, it is now a trendy bar that attracts locals and visitors alike.
Rightfully named the Old Bank, this sports bar sits on the corner of Main Street and Commerce and is part of the Russellville Downtown Historic District.
Though the 3-story building was gutted, there are many features that were preserved, like the exposed brick walls, the original bank vault, marble flooring, and so much more.
Today, it's decked out with over 50 flatscreen TVs, three full bars, bar seating and booths, multiple stages, and there is even an exclusive members-only club that comes with extra perks.
The menu offers a wide variety of items from appetizers to small plates like shrimp and crab dip, to chicken sandwiches...
If you're there for dinner, you can choose from several cuts of steaks, all are cooked to perfection. Additionally, there are burgers, wraps, seafood, and chicken platters too.
For the grown folks, order a mixed drink with your meal or a beer or glass of wine. With 3 ful bars, it's guaranteed you'll find something that you like.
How about some live music? There are two performance stages that feature musical talent and as you can see, the place can get crowded. But that is part of the fun!
It's great to see that this historical spot is being used to entertain the folks in the Arkansas River Valley.
Did you know the history of the Old Bank Sports Bar and have you been here before? If so, tell us what you liked about this trendy sports bar in Arkansas. Or share with us your favorite date-night spot that you frequent.
For more fun in Russellville, check out Tucker Coliseum where you can watch a basketball game or even catch a concert.
