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Belle Grove Historic District: A Victorian Jewel

Explore Fort Smith's Belle Grove Historic District: a captivating journey through Victorian architecture and Wild West history in a charming residential neighborhood.

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Step back in time in Fort Smith's Belle Grove Historic District, a 22-block neighborhood showcasing stunning Victorian architecture. Once home to prominent figures like Judge Isaac Parker and William H.H. Clayton, its streets whisper tales of the Wild West and the city's formative years.

A brief summary to Belle Grove Historic District

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the best way to experience the district is on foot.
  • Check the opening hours and tour availability for specific houses, such as the Clayton House, before your visit.
  • Consider taking a guided walking tour for a deeper understanding of the district's history and architecture. Contact the Clayton House for information.
  • Explore the district during the Fall Festival + Oktoberfest to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and free historic trolley rides.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Fort Smith Transit Center, head north on N 6th Street towards Garrison Avenue. Continue straight for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with N B Street. Turn left onto N B Street and walk approximately 0.2 miles. Turn right onto N C St. The Belle Grove Historic District will be on your left. This walk is about 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take any Fort Smith Transit bus route that heads towards the downtown area. Get off at the 'Garrison Ave & N B St' stop. From there, walk north on N B St for about 2 blocks, then turn right on N C St. The Belle Grove Historic District will be on your left. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Parking

    Free street parking is available on Garrison Avenue between 3rd and 10th Streets. You may also find free parking at the Fort Smith National Historic Site parking lot at 3rd & Garland, or the Miss Laura's Brothel Museum Parking Lot at 2 N B St. Be aware of street closures during events like the Fall Festival.

Unlock the Best of Belle Grove Historic District

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Discover more about Belle Grove Historic District

The Belle Grove Historic District in Fort Smith, Arkansas, offers a captivating glimpse into the city's past. Established as a residential area shortly after Fort Smith's founding in 1842, the district flourished between 1870 and 1930, becoming home to political leaders, lawyers, doctors, and successful merchants. Today, it stands as one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in the state, boasting a diverse collection of late 19th and early 20th-century architectural styles. Stroll through the 22-block district and admire the well-preserved Victorian homes showcasing Gothic Revival, Victorian Renaissance, Victorian Baroque, Victorian Romanesque, Classic Revival, and Eastlake Victorian designs. The district's architectural diversity makes it unique in Arkansas. Several landmarks contribute to the district's charm : * **The Clayton House:** (514 N. 6th Street) This Queen Anne/Italianate mansion, lavishly transformed in 1882 by William H.H. Clayton, the prosecuting attorney for Judge Isaac C. Parker, features a black walnut staircase and original furniture. Tours are available. * **The Bonneville House:** (318 N. 7th Street) An Italianate home famously owned by Susan Bonneville, the widow of General Benjamin Bonneville, a renowned explorer of the American West. Interior tours are available by appointment. * **Belle Grove School:** (423 North Sixth Street) Constructed in 1886 in the Second Empire and Romanesque Revival styles, this building served as one of Fort Smith's first public schools. It has since been converted into apartments. * **James K. Barnes Home:** (515 N. 6th Street) This Richardsonian Romanesque home, built in 1893, features curved brick, butterfin mortar, and stained glass. Interior tours are not available. * **The Darby House:** (311 N. 8th Street) The boyhood home of General William O. Darby, a WWII hero and founder of the Army Rangers. Interior tours are available by appointment. The Belle Grove Historic District offers a tangible connection to Fort Smith's rich history and architectural heritage. It is a testament to the city's colorful past and the prominent figures who shaped its development.

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