Fort Smith National Historic Site is a National Historic Site located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, along the Arkansas River. The first fort at this site was established by the United States in 1817, before this area was established as part of Indian Territory. It was later replaced and the second fort was operated by the US until 1871. This site was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1961.Make Fort Smith National Historic Site a centerpiece of your Fort Smith vacation itinerary, and find what else is worth visiting using our Fort Smith day trip website.
The fort was the first site of the United States District Court for the Western District of Arkansas, which had jurisdiction over western Arkansas and all of Indian Territory. It began operations in 1875 with the appointment of Isaac C. Parker as the first federal district judge here. The town of Fort Smith, Arkansas developed around the fort.
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Fort Smith National Historic Site reviews
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Great open spaces with many things to see relating back in our history The person working gave several other sites to visit along our journey Worth the stop
Great open spaces with many things to see relating back in our history The person working gave several other sites to visit along our journey Worth the stop more »
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Such a great place to visit. The grounds were very nice. Even though it was hot (July '21), it wasn't horrible. There was a breeze, plenty of tree cover and benches here and there. Not everything.... more
Such a great place to visit. The grounds were very nice. Even though it was hot (July '21), it wasn't horrible. There was a breeze, plenty of tree cover and benches here and there. Not everything.... more »
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Great historical tour and just being in this spot you really get the feeling of excitement that the settlers who were heading west felt back at the opening of the western lands. Plus you can also feel the pain and anguish of the displaced Cherokees who were processed through here on the trail of tears. Every American who has any idea about what manifest destiny meant to our forefathers and the development of our country, must visit this place! Understanding what our democracy means and is what Fort Smith is all about.
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My brother and I drove a few hours here. We wanted to see something in Arkansas to cross the state off our list. This was a perfect place to come to. Very easy to find, good parking, and beautiful. You will enjoy this place. I would imagine it’s great for a picnic too.
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