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Parker-Hickman Farmstead: A Glimpse into Ozark Pioneer Life

Discover a remarkably preserved 19th-century Ozark farmstead, offering a glimpse into pioneer life along the Buffalo National River.

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Step back in time at the Parker-Hickman Farmstead, a remarkably preserved 19th-century homestead nestled in Arkansas' Buffalo National River area. Explore original log structures, barns, and fields, offering a unique window into the lives of early Ozark settlers and their enduring agricultural traditions.

A brief summary to Parker-Hickman Farmstead

  • Harrison, Arkansas, 72601, US

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the farmstead and exploring the grounds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the rustic charm and historical details of the buildings and landscape.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Parker-Hickman Farmstead is located near Erbie Campground in the Buffalo National River area. From Harrison, take Highway 7 north for approximately 3.5 miles past Jasper. Turn west onto the gravel road following signs for Erbie Campground. Continue on this road for about 6 miles; the farmstead will be on your left, just past the Erbie Campground. A designated parking area is available at the bottom of the hill. Note that access roads may be unpaved and a high-profile vehicle may be beneficial.

  • Hiking

    The Buffalo River Trail passes directly through the Parker-Hickman Farmstead. If hiking the BRT between Kyles Landing and Erbie, the homestead is easily accessible and makes for a worthwhile stop. Follow the trail as it winds through the farmstead, taking time to explore the buildings and grounds.

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Discover more about Parker-Hickman Farmstead

The Parker-Hickman Farmstead, located in the upper district of Buffalo National River near Erbie Campground, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of 19th and 20th-century Ozark settlers. Established in the 1840s by the Parker brothers who migrated from Tennessee, the 195-acre farmstead showcases the resourcefulness and self-sufficiency of early settlers. The Parker family utilized local red cedar to construct their home, which is believed to be the oldest standing log structure in the Buffalo National River area. Continuously occupied until 1982, the farmstead evolved through generations, with the Hickman family acquiring the property in 1912 and making further additions. The site comprises a collection of buildings, including the original log house, barns, sheds, a smokehouse, and even a privy installed during the Great Depression by the WPA. These structures, arranged in a rectangular layout, exemplify rural vernacular architecture and provide insight into the daily lives of Ozark farmers. Visitors can explore the well-preserved grounds, imagining life on a self-sufficient farm. The main house features red cedar logs, carefully squared and joined with dovetail notches, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. An addition to the house, built in the early 1900s, once served as a farm supply store, its walls lined with old newspapers. The surrounding landscape includes extant fields, fencerows, and a stream, evoking the agricultural history of the site. The Parker-Hickman Farmstead stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Ozark pioneers and their connection to the land.

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