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Powhatan Historic State Park: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Arkansas

Explore a preserved 19th-century Arkansas river port town with historic buildings and exhibits at Powhatan Historic State Park on the Black River.

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Step back in time at Powhatan Historic State Park, a preserved 19th-century river port town on the Black River. Explore original buildings, including the 1888 courthouse, and experience life in a bygone era of northeast Arkansas commerce and culture.

A brief summary to Powhatan Historic State Park

  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the park's operating hours before visiting, as it's closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
  • Take a guided tour to fully experience the historic structures and learn about the town's history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the park's grounds.
  • Visit nearby Lake Charles State Park or Davidsonville Historic State Park to see three state parks in one day.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Powhatan Historic State Park is located on Arkansas Highway 25 in Powhatan. From major roads in Crowley's Ridge, take AR-1 North for approximately 15 miles, then turn left onto AR-25 South. Continue on AR-25 for about 6 miles until you see the park entrance on your left at 4414 AR-25. Parking is available at the park. There is no admission fee to enter the park.

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Discover more about Powhatan Historic State Park

Powhatan Historic State Park offers a captivating journey into Arkansas's past, preserving the heritage of a once-thriving 19th-century river port town. Located on the banks of the Black River, Powhatan was a vital hub for commerce, industry, and government in northeast Arkansas. The park's centerpiece is the 1888 Powhatan Courthouse, which dominates the landscape and houses exhibits interpreting Lawrence County's history from the Reconstruction era through the early 20th century. Visitors can explore other original structures, including the 1873 jail, the 1840s Ficklin-Imboden Log House, the 1888 telephone exchange building (Commercial Building), and the 1890 Male and Female Academy, each offering a glimpse into different facets of 19th-century life. Powhatan's story is one of growth and decline, fueled by river traffic and later impacted by the arrival of the railroad. Founded as a ferry landing in 1820, Powhatan flourished as a steamboat port after 1829, becoming the county seat in 1869. However, the Kansas City-Memphis Railway bypassed the town in 1883, leading to its eventual decline. In 1963, the county seat moved to Walnut Ridge. Today, the park stands as a testament to Powhatan's rich history, offering visitors a chance to experience a preserved piece of Arkansas's past. Visitors can take guided tours of the historic structures, with knowledgeable interpreters sharing stories of the people and events that shaped the region. The Northeast Arkansas Regional Archives, located within the park, houses historical documents for those interested in genealogical research.

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