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Parker-Hickman Farmstead: A Glimpse into Ozark Pioneer Life

Explore a remarkably preserved 19th-century Ozark farmstead with historic buildings and scenic landscapes in Buffalo National River, Arkansas.

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The Parker-Hickman Farmstead, nestled in Harrison, Arkansas, within the Buffalo National River area, offers a captivating look into 19th and 20th-century Ozark farm life. This well-preserved homestead, dating back to the 1840s, features a collection of historic buildings and scenic landscapes that tell the story of early settlers and their 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.
  • Check the Buffalo National River National Park Service website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Jasper, Arkansas, head north on Highway 7 for approximately 3.5 miles. Turn west at the sign for Erbie and follow the signs to Erbie Campground. Instead of turning into the campground, continue on Old Erbie Road. The Parker-Hickman Farmstead will be on your left at the bottom of the road. Parking is available on-site.

  • Walking

    The Parker-Hickman Farmstead is accessible via the Buffalo River Trail from Kyles Landing to Erbie. The trail passes directly through the homestead. Alternatively, if floating the Buffalo River, the homestead is a short walk from the Erbie low water crossing.

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Discover more about Parker-Hickman Farmstead

Step back in time at the Parker-Hickman Farmstead, a 195-acre historic district that encapsulates the spirit of rural life in the Ozark Mountains. Established in the 1840s by settlers from Tennessee, the farmstead showcases a remarkably intact agricultural landscape, offering insights into two centuries of Ozark history. The heart of the farmstead is the one-and-a-half-story log house, likely the oldest standing log structure in the Buffalo National River area. Constructed in the 1850s, the house exemplifies the craftsmanship of the era, featuring red cedar logs with half dove-tail notches. The farmstead also includes a collection of other buildings, such as barns, sheds, a smokehouse, and even a privy installed during the Great Depression by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Visitors can explore the farmstead on a self-guided tour, wandering through the fields, along the fencerows, and past the cattle gates. The site provides a unique opportunity to connect with Arkansas's historical roots and appreciate the tranquility of nature. The Parker-Hickman Farmstead stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the families who shaped the Ozark landscape.

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