Fort Smith: Where History Meets Charm in Arkansas

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Fort Smith was established on December 25, 1817, by Major William Bradford of the U.S. Army. Located at the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers, the site was chosen to maintain peace between the Osage and the Cherokee tribes. Named after General Thomas A. Smith, the fort initially consisted of a stockade and a few log buildings.

In the 1830s, Fort Smith played a significant role in the forced relocation of Native American tribes known as the Trail of Tears. The fort served as a waypoint for thousands of Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole people who were forced to move from their ancestral homelands in the southeastern United States to designated Indian Territory in present-day Oklahoma.

By 1838, the original Fort Smith was abandoned, but a new fort was constructed in 1839 on higher ground to better defend against potential attacks. This second fort included a stone wall, barracks, and other buildings, and it became an important military post during the Mexican-American War and the Civil War.

In 1875, Judge Isaac C. Parker was appointed to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas, headquartered in Fort Smith. Known as the 'Hanging Judge,' Parker presided over a large jurisdiction that included Indian Territory. He is famous for his tough stance on law and order, sentencing over 160 people to death during his 21-year tenure. His courtroom and gallows are among Fort Smith's most visited historical sites.

Established in 1961, the Fort Smith National Historic Site preserves the remains of both the first and second forts, as well as the federal courthouse and jail used by Judge Parker. Visitors can explore the restored buildings, walk along the Trail of Tears Overlook, and learn about the area's rich history through exhibits and reenactments.

The arrival of the railroad in 1876 transformed Fort Smith into a bustling commercial hub. The Kansas and Arkansas Valley Railway, later part of the Missouri Pacific Railroad, connected Fort Smith to major cities, facilitating trade and the movement of people. The railroad era spurred economic growth and led to the development of industries such as manufacturing and commerce.

Fort Smith boasts a vibrant cultural scene, celebrating its diverse heritage through various festivals and events. The Old Fort Days Rodeo, one of the oldest rodeos in the country, highlights the city’s Western roots. The Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Festival and the Fort Smith International Film Festival showcase the city's contemporary culture and artistic talents.

Fort Smith is located in western Arkansas. The nearest major airport is Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM), which offers direct flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and a few other regional hubs. Alternatively, you can fly into Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA) or Tulsa International Airport (TUL), both of which are about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Fort Smith. From these airports, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Fort Smith.

Fort Smith has a few public transportation options, including buses operated by Fort Smith Transit. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. If you prefer driving, car rentals are readily available at the airport and throughout the city. For a more scenic and leisurely way to explore, consider renting a bike; Fort Smith has several bike-friendly routes.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and you can find them in banks, convenience stores, and shopping centers. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors and tips.

Fort Smith is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Areas to exercise caution include certain parts of North Fort Smith and the Midland Boulevard area, particularly at night. Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight. If you're exploring downtown, it's best to stick to well-lit, populated areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Fort Smith has several medical facilities, including Mercy Hospital Fort Smith and Baptist Health-Fort Smith. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies available. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but consider dressing up a bit if you plan to visit fancier restaurants or events. Religion: Do respect religious customs if you visit places of worship. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a transit card for bus fares. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do tip your servers; 15-20% is customary. Don’t forget to try local specialties like fried catfish and barbecue.

To experience Fort Smith like a local, visit the Fort Smith Farmers Market held on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals at the Riverfront Park or during one of the city's many festivals, like the Fort Smith Western Heritage Month. Don't miss the chance to take a historic trolley ride or explore the Fort Smith National Historic Site for a deeper understanding of the area's rich history.