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Massard Prairie Battlefield Park: A Civil War Memorial

Explore a Civil War battlefield and memorial in Fort Smith, Arkansas, preserving a pivotal moment in history.

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Massard Prairie Battlefield Park in Fort Smith, Arkansas, commemorates the site of a Civil War battle that took place on July 27, 1864. Today, the park preserves the four major areas of the camp and serves as a memorial to the soldiers who fought and died here. Visitors can explore the grounds, read historical markers, and reflect on the past.

A brief summary to Massard Prairie Battlefield Park

  • Monday 6 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-11 pm
  • Friday 6 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and cooler temperatures.
  • Take your time to read the informational plaques scattered throughout the park for a deeper understanding of its history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven in some areas.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic areas of the park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Fort Smith Transit Center at 100 N 6th St, take bus route #2 towards the Fort Smith Regional Airport. Ride for approximately 25 minutes and get off at the intersection of Zero St and Morgans Way. From there, walk about 0.5 miles north on Morgans Way to reach the park. A regular fixed route fare is $1.25.

  • Walking

    From the Fort Smith Convention Center at 55 S 7th St, walk south on 7th St until you reach Rogers Ave. Turn left onto Rogers Ave and continue for about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Morgans Way and walk for approximately 0.5 miles to Massard Prairie Battlefield Park. This is a long walk, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Driving

    Massard Prairie Battlefield Park is located at 4999 Morgans Way, Fort Smith, AR 72916. From downtown Fort Smith, head south on Zero Street, then turn onto Morgans Way. Free parking is available at the park.

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Discover more about Massard Prairie Battlefield Park

Massard Prairie Battlefield Park, located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, marks the site of the Battle of Massard Prairie, a Civil War engagement that occurred on July 27, 1864. The battle saw Confederate troops launch a surprise attack on Union soldiers stationed here, resulting in a Confederate victory. The park itself preserves four key areas of the original camp: the Parade Ground, the kitchen or "mess" area, and the camps of Companies B and D. Historical markers, a monument, and a memorial flagstaff dot the landscape, offering visitors insights into the events that unfolded here. A walking trail allows for exploration of the grounds. Massard Prairie was added to the Arkansas Register of Historic Places on November 7, 2001. The park serves as a place of remembrance, honoring the soldiers from both sides who fought in the battle. It provides a space for reflection on the impact of the Civil War and the sacrifices made during this tumultuous period in American history. The battle holds significance in Choctaw history, as Choctaw units fighting with the Confederacy achieved a major victory. The park is maintained by the city of Fort Smith, and each year a reenactment is held with Choctaw tribal members participating.

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