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Potts Inn Museum: A Glimpse into Arkansas's Past

Discover 19th-century Arkansas at Potts Inn Museum, a preserved stagecoach stop with period furnishings and historical artifacts.

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The Potts Inn Museum in Pottsville, Arkansas, is a beautifully preserved 1858 stagecoach inn, offering visitors a unique look into 19th-century life along the historic Butterfield Overland Mail route. With period furnishings and outbuildings housing fascinating artifacts, the museum provides an immersive historical experience.

A brief summary to Potts Inn Museum

  • Thursday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date operating hours, as they can be limited.
  • Allow at least 60-90 minutes to fully explore the main house and outbuildings.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personalized experience.
  • Donations are appreciated and help support the preservation of this important piece of Arkansas history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Potts Inn Museum is located in Pottsville, Arkansas, easily accessible from Highway 64. From I-40, take Exit 81 toward Pottsville. Follow Highway 64 East into Pottsville. The museum is located on Ash Street. Parking is available on-site. Note that parking may be limited during special events.

  • Public Transportation

    While Pottsville is a small town, it is connected to nearby cities by Fort Smith Transit. Check the Fort Smith Transit website for routes and schedules to the Pottsville area. From the nearest bus stop, you may need to take a short taxi or ride-share to reach the museum. Taxi/ride-share fare approximately $10-$15.

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Discover more about Potts Inn Museum

Step back in time at the Potts Inn Museum, a remarkable example of antebellum architecture and a key stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route. Built in 1858 by John Kirkbride Potts, this two-story wood-frame structure served as both a family home and a vital stagecoach inn. Inside the museum, you'll discover nine rooms filled with period furnishings, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Potts family and travelers of the 19th century. The wide hall once served as the Galla Creek Post Office, and the rooms accommodated guests with clean beds and the best food, a reputation that made Potts Inn a popular stop. Explore the grounds to find five historic log structures, each with unique exhibits. One building showcases antique clothing and hats from 1870 to the present, while another features Native American artifacts and a collection of dolls dressed in replicas of Arkansas First Ladies' inaugural gowns. You'll also find a barn displaying antique farm equipment and a one-room pioneer log cabin, offering a comprehensive view of early Arkansas life. The Potts Inn Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a cultural hub that hosts community events like Easter egg hunts and the annual Butterfield Days festival. Managed by the Pope County Historical Foundation, the museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Pottsville and the surrounding area.

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