Old Fort Smith: Where the West Began
Explore the rugged history of the Wild West at Old Fort Smith, where soldiers, outlaws, and Native Americans shaped the American frontier.
Old Fort Smith National Historic Site marks the spot where the United States Army first established a presence on the edge of what was then known as Indian Territory. Founded in 1817, the fort aimed to maintain peace between the Osage and Cherokee tribes. The first fort was abandoned in 1824, but a second fort was established in 1838 and operated until 1871. Today, visitors can explore the remains of both forts, including the foundations of the original 1817 fort at Belle Point, overlooking the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers. The site also includes the Commissary, the oldest building still standing in Fort Smith, and a replica of the gallows where many outlaws met their end. The visitor center, housed in the former barracks, courthouse, and jail, tells the stories of the soldiers, Native Americans, and outlaws who shaped the region's history. Here, you can see Judge Parker's restored courtroom and the infamous "Hell on the Border" jail, gaining insight into the challenges of maintaining law and order in the Wild West. Walk the Trail of Tears Overlook, which tells the story of the five civilized tribes that were forcibly removed to Indian Territory.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking between the different historical sites.
- Visit the Fort Smith Museum of History, located near the National Historic Site, for a broader understanding of the city's past.
- Check the schedule for ranger-led tours and demonstrations to enhance your experience.
A brief summary to Old Fort Smith
- Fort Smith, Arkansas, US
Getting There
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Walking
From the Fort Smith Museum of History, walk south on 4th Street for approximately two blocks. The entrance to the Fort Smith National Historic Site will be on your right. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.
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Public Transport
Fort Smith Transit provides bus service within the city. Check the RouteShout 2.0 app for real-time bus tracking and route planning. Several routes serve the downtown area, from which you can walk a few blocks to the site. A single ride fare is typically around $1.25.
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Parking
Free parking is available at the main parking lot of the Fort Smith National Historic Site. From Rogers or Garrison Avenue in downtown Fort Smith, turn south on 4th Street, then turn right onto Garland Avenue. The entrance to the parking lot is at the end of the block. Metered parking is available in downtown Fort Smith for a fee. Parking meter rates are $0.50 per hour on Garrison Avenue and $0.25 per 40 minutes on downtown side streets.
