From the establishment of the first Fort Smith on December 25, 1817, to the final days of Judge Isaac C. Parker's jurisdiction over Indian Territory in 1896, Fort Smith National Historic Site preserves almost 80 years of history. Explore life on the edge of Indian Territory through the stories of soldiers, the Trail of Tears, dangerous outlaws, and the brave lawmen who pursued them.
The Fort Smith National Historic Site is located close to the Arkansas River. In 1961, the need to preserve two historic sites (historical forts) was felt and hence this site was built. It almost takes 2 hours to explore this vast site that features a visitor center, military exhibits, park grounds, Trail of Tears, courtroom and jails. Tourists can also avail the picnic shelters nestled under...