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Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives: Preserving History

Explore Southwest Arkansas history through documents, photos, and records at the Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives in Historic Washington State Park.

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The Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives (SARA) in Washington, Arkansas, is a branch of the Arkansas State Archives dedicated to preserving the history of twelve southwestern Arkansas counties. Explore genealogical records, maps, photographs, and newspapers in this valuable research center.

A brief summary to Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives

  • Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and more personalized assistance from the staff.
  • Check the Arkansas State Archives website for any special events or workshops that might coincide with your visit.
  • Allow ample time to explore the archives, as the wealth of information can take hours to fully appreciate.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If you are driving from Texarkana, take I-30 W for about 30 miles, then take exit 18 for US-71 N and merge onto US-71 N. Continue for approximately 20 miles and take the exit toward AR-195 S. Follow AR-195 S for about 5 miles. The Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives will be on your right at 201 AR-195, Washington, AR 71862. Parking is free.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Washington, AR, and staying nearby, you can walk to the Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives. Head south on AR-195 from the center of Washington for about 1 mile. The archives will be on your right at 201 AR-195.

Unlock the Best of Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives

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Discover more about Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives

The Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives (SARA) serves as a captivating gateway to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Located in Washington, Arkansas, this branch of the Arkansas State Archives is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and providing access to primary and secondary source materials related to the history of southwest Arkansas and its people. Founded in 1978, SARA began as a project of the Hempstead County Historical Society and has since grown into a vital resource for historical research. The archives' mission is to focus on the unique history, culture, and heritage of the twelve counties it serves: Columbia, Hempstead, Howard, Lafayette, Little River, Miller, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Polk, Sevier, and Union. Visitors can delve into a diverse collection of documents, photographs, maps, and artifacts that showcase the evolution of communities, significant events, and notable figures that have shaped the area throughout the years. The knowledgeable staff is available to assist guests in uncovering the stories behind the items on display, making each visit both educational and engaging. Special collections include the Robert B. Walz Photograph Collection, featuring over 2,500 images of people and places in southwest Arkansas from the 19th and early 20th centuries; the Simmons Collection of early Hempstead County Court Records; and the Nan Robson Brown Collection, containing photographs and genealogical information of descendants of Arkansas's first state governor, James Sevier Conway. SARA is located within Historic Washington State Park, adding to the historical ambiance of the location. The archives also host various events and workshops that further enrich the visitor experience, allowing for deeper engagement with local history.

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