Clark County Historical Museum
750 South 5th Street
Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923
10 AM - 3 PM Wednesday through Friday |
There is no admission fee but donations are gladly accepted. Phone |
10 AM to Noon Saturday |
From the moment of its formation on October 30, 1972, the members of the Clark County Historical Association looked forward to opening a museum. In meeting its constitutionally stated objectives - to discover, preserve and disseminate knowledge about the county's history - the CCHA has long sponsored an archive located in Riley-Hickingbotham Library on the campus of Ouachita Baptist University. Here genealogists and others interested in local history can research the county's past. But making memorabilia and artifacts accessible had to wait until a suitable site became available.
The fortuitous juxtaposition of interest and opportunity took the museum from dream to reality in its location in Arkadelphia's Amtrak train station. The museum's function is best explained by its mission statement: "The museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich and diverse history of Clark County from prehistoric times to the present. The museum is also committed to educating the public about the important people and events that have influenced the county. Artifacts that best represent the various eras in Clark County history will be displayed for preservation and educational purposes within the museum."
Some of the displays feature photographs and short biographies of individuals who have made the county what it is today. Others tell the county's history since the advent of American settlement, focusing on the events and activities that have shaped the county. Displays reveal residents' participation in some of the nation's wars - the Civil War, World War I, World War II - or focus on country life, on education, and on transportation and communication (particularly the telephone). The latter displays combine artifacts with photographs in telling the story. Finally, there is an interpretive display of Caddoan artifacts. All of the displays are meant to be educational without being "stuffy." Although some will be permanent and remain over time, the Museum Committee plans to rotate other exhibits on a regular basis, retaining the museum's freshness.
Amtrak Station
750 South 5th Street