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Fort Smith National Historic Sitedetail of postcard showing people in front of courthouse building
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Fort Smith National Historic Site
Federal Court Era Places (1872-1896)
 
interior of courtoom as it looks today with Judge's bench in center of wall
Memories by Jody
Restored Courtroom of Judge Isaac C. Parker

Today visitors come to Fort Smith to see the federal courthouse used by Judge Isaac C. Parker from 1875-1889.  However, the building was originally the military barracks and not ideally suited for a courthouse.  The courtroom was small and not lavishly furnished.  The former mess halls in the basement were converted into two large jail cells, nicknamed "Hell on the Border." 

 

 
 
reconstructed gallows with 3 nooses hanging from crossbeam
Gallows
A reconstructed gallows stands on the site of the original structure.
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jail wagon in front of courthouse
Postcards of Federal Court Era Buildings
Postcards of Fort Smith federal courthouses and jails
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map of Indian Removal routes  

Did You Know?
All five of the southeastern tribes forcibly removed on the Trail of Tears had routes that went through Fort Smith, Arkansas. Those that were removed by water went on the Arkansas River and from Fort Smith they crossed the river and entered Indian Territory.

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Last Updated: July 17, 2007 at 16:26 EST