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Fort Smith National Historic Sitesidewalk path along Arkansas River
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Fort Smith National Historic Site
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Foundations of the first fort's block house
Fort Smith NHS
Foundation of blockhouse at site of first Fort Smith overlooking Arkansas River

The first Fort Smith was established at the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers in 1817 at a place called Belle Point. It was the highest navigable point on the Arkansas River at the time the site was chosen by the U.S. Army. The army abandoned the fort in 1824 and while used intermittently by transient troops it was never maintained. Its exact location remained unknown until 1963, when archeologists uncovered the foundations visitors can see today.

 
The stone commissary was originally begun as a bastion, evidence of which can be seen on the first level.
Fort Smith NHS
Commissary Building

In 1838 a second fort was begun, this one built at a higher elevation away from the river. Major buildings included two officer's quarters, a barracks, commissary, and quartermaster storehouse, all enclosed by a stone wall. Today visitors can see the Commissary Storehouse, the oldest building still standing in Fort Smith, and the former military barracks which was converted into the federal courthouse in 1872.

An outline of stones placed at ground level marks the walls original location. Locations of other second fort buildings are designated by wayside panels and marked floor plans.

 
The barracks/courthouse building as it looks today with the second floor that was added in 1890.
Fort Smith NHS
Federal Courthouse

When the military barracks was used as a courthouse the basement was turned into a jail. In 1888 a new jail wing was constructed. The federal courthouse, which originally was a 1 1/2 story structure with full porches, was changed to its present appearance in 1890.

A reproduction of the 1886 gallows stands on its original site and is a reminder of the chaotic social conditions that existed in Indian Territory during Judge Parker's time.

 
reconstructed gallows with 3 nooses hanging from crossbeam
Gallows
A reconstructed gallows stands on the site of the original structure.
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100 foot garrison flag flies in middle of parade ground at second Fort Smith
Postcards of Second Fort Smith
Several postcards show views of what the fort looked like before 1870.
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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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Park staff and volunteers demonstrating using lindstock and slowmatch to ignite the cannon's primer  

Did You Know?
The soldiers who came to Fort Smith in 1817 were still using some 18th century technology and drill. The cannon was discharged using a lindstock and slowmatch to ignite the primer, which originally was loose powder or a turkey quill filled with powder.

Last Updated: September 28, 2007 at 16:11 EST