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Magnolia, Arkansas

Magnolia is a city in Columbia County, Arkansas, United States. As of the 2010 census the population was 11,577. The city is the county seat of Columbia County.

Magnolia is home to the World's Largest Charcoal Grill and the World Championship Steak Cookoff, part of the Magnolia Blossom Festival. The city is also home to Southern Arkansas University.

History
The city was founded in 1853. At the time of its incorporation in 1858, the city had a population of about 1,950.

On November 11, 1919 Jordan Jameson was lynched in the town square of Magnolia. A large white mob seized Jameson after he allegedly shot the local sheriff. They tied him to a stake and burned him alive.

The city grew slowly as an agricultural and regional cotton market until the discovery of oil just east of the city in March 1938, with the Barnett #1 drilled by the Kerr-Lynn Company. The Magnolia Oil Field was an important discovery for the city as well as for the nation, as it was the largest producing field (in volume) during the early years of World War II, helping to sustain the American war effort.

In March 2013, more than 5,000 barrels of oil leaked from a Lion Oil Trading & Transportation storage tank in Magnolia, with some flowing into a bayou.

Geography
Magnolia is located in southwest Arkansas, north of the center of Columbia County. The average altitude is 336 ft above sea level according to NOAA. The surrounding region is a mix of dense forest, farm prairies, and low rolling hills.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 34.4 km2, of which 0.07 km2, or 0.21%, is water.

Magnolia is located about 50 mi east of Texarkana, about 135 mi south of Little Rock, and about 75 mi northeast of Shreveport, Louisiana.

Climate
The average temperature is 64 F, and the average annual rainfall is 50.3 in. The winters are mild but can dip into the teens at night and have highs in the 30s and even some 20s but average out around 50. The springs are warm and can be stormy with strong to severe storms and average highs in the mid 70s. Summers are often hot, humid and dry but with occasional isolated afternoon storms, highs in the mid to upper 90s and even 100s. In the fall the temps cool from the 90s and 100s to 80s and 70s. Early fall temps are usually in the 80s but can reach 90s and at times has reached 100. Late fall temps fall to 70s and 60s. It is not uncommon to see snow and ice during the winter.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 11,162 people, 3,935 households, and 2,338 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 10,858 people, 4,204 households, and 2,577 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,165.3 PD/sqmi. There were 4,821 housing units at an average density of 517.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 58.24% White, 39.38% Black or African American, 0.22% Native American, 0.65% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.48% from other races, and 1.00% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.07% of the population.

There were 4,204 households, out of which 28.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.2% were married couples living together, 17.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.7% were non-families. Of 4,204 households, 101 are unmarried partner households: 91 heterosexual, 4 same-sex male, 6 same-sex female households. 34.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 3.01.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.2% under the age of 18, 16.8% from 18 to 24, 23.1% from 25 to 44, 18.4% from 45 to 64, and 17.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 79.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $29,897, as of 2005, and the median income for a family was $35,269. Males had a median income of $31,577 versus $20,840 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,403. About 15.2% of families and 23.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 32.9% of those under age 18 and 17.7% of those age 65 or over.

Economy
Magnolia when it was founded was a cotton, farm production, and marketing town. Slowly the town grew, and in 1909 the Third District Agricultural School, subsequently known as Magnolia A&M and Southern State College, now known as Southern Arkansas University, was founded. During World War II Magnolia became a heavy manufacturing city. In 1938 oil and natural gas were discovered near the city in what was called the Magnolia Oil Field, the largest producing field by volume in the nation during the war. The city soon became a producer in steel, lumber, aluminum, bromine, rubber-coated products and fuel cells for the military.

The town's primary economic focus is heavy industrial, including Albemarle Corporation's Bromine Products Division (which has two facilities near town), Amfuel (which produces fuel cells for the military), and Sapa Group's extruded aluminum products facility. Also located in the area are several oil and brine drilling companies, many of which are locally owned, and timber companies, such as Deltic and Weyerhaeuser.

Major industrial employers: SAPA (750), Albemarle (739), Amfuel (380), CMC (344), Weyerhaeuser (250), Deltic Timber (125), Partee Flooring (95), and Southern Aluminum (90).

Largest non-manufacturing employers:
 * Magnolia Public School System, 346
 * Southern Arkansas University, 304
 * Magnolia Hospital, 253
 * Columbia County government, 110

The unemployment rate in Magnolia is 9.40%, with job growth of -0.40%. Future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 29.70%, according to Sterling's, The U.S. unemployment rate average for the month of June is 9.2%, Arkansas' average is 7.2%.

Arts and culture
Magnolia is home to the Magnolia Blossom Festival and World Championship Steak Cookoff. The festival has been featured on the Food Network and attracts more than 40,000. A 'Festival of Lights' is held from late November through late December.

Magnolia is known locally for its downtown shopping on the square and for its murals - one of which was signed by Charlton Heston.

Government
The city operated under a city council form of government until 2003. Voters elected to convert the city to a strong-mayor form of government, making the mayor's position a full-time position with veto power. Lane Jean was elected mayor in 1996. The city employs approximately 50 individuals in seven different departments, including the Police Department, the Fire Department, and Parks and Recreation.

Animal shelter rescue
The city operated a shelter designed for approximately 20 dogs. On August 14, 2014, this facility was found to have 59 dogs in unclean conditions, without heat, air conditioning or even walls for the animals. With the city's permission, the local H&P Animal Alliance assisted in removing the dogs from the over-crowded shelter.

A number of dogs were sent to an out-of-state animal rescue group specializing in saving large-breed working dogs, Big Fluffy Dog Rescue. Big Fluffy Dog Rescue is a Nashville, Tennessee-based 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. The rescue effort cost an uncompensated $50,000.

Public and private schools
Public schools in the Magnolia School District include:

 * Walker Pre-K Center (PK)
 * Magnolia Eastside Elementary (K-3)
 * Magnolia Central Elementary (4-6)
 * Magnolia Junior High School (7-9)
 * Magnolia High School (10-12)

Private schools in Magnolia include:

 * Columbia Christian School

Magnolia High School is known for its boys' track teams and baseball program. The track team has won the State Championship five out of the last six years. The Panther baseball team was crowned State Champions in 2011 and have won four straight conference titles. The Magnolia Panthers compete in the Arkansas Activities Association 5A-Southwest conference.

Since 1999 Magnolia High School graduates have received well over $1 million in college scholarship money each year, with the class of 2008 being first to reach $2 million in scholarship offers.

Graduation rates for the city are: High school or higher, 75.4%; Bachelor's degree or higher, 24.1%; Graduate or professional degree, 7.0%.

Colleges and universities
Magnolia is the home of Southern Arkansas University, a public university that offers four-year and advanced (Master's level) degrees in business, public administration, computer information systems, education, counseling, education administration, and criminal justice. With an enrollment of 4,771, its most notable programs are agriculture, business, and education. The university's cultural focus is Harton Theatre, which provides a venue for both departmental plays, concerts, and local cultural events.

Airport
Magnolia Municipal Airport is a city-owned, public-use airport located three nautical miles (6 km) southeast of the central business district of Magnolia.

Highways

 * [[Image:US 82.svg|20px]] U.S. Highway 82
 * [[Image:US 79.svg|20px]] U.S. Highway 79
 * [[Image:US 371.svg|25px]] U.S. Highway 371
 * [[Image:Arkansas 19.svg|20px]] Arkansas Highway 19
 * [[Image:Arkansas 355.svg|25px]] Arkansas Highway 355
 * [[Image:US 82B.svg|25px]] U.S. Highway 82 Business
 * [[Image:US 79B.svg|25px]] U.S. Highway 79 Business

Notable people

 * Harvey C. Couch (1877-1941), Arkansas entrepreneur who controlled a regional utility and railroad empire; raised in Magnolia
 * Billy Joe Daugherty (1952–2009), founder and pastor of Victory Christian Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma
 * Roy Green, former wide receiver in the National Football League
 * Charlaine Harris, author who writes what are referred to as the Sookie Stackhouse novels
 * Lane Jean (born c. 1959), former mayor of Magnolia and current Republican member of the Arkansas House of Representatives
 * Andrew R. Johnson (1856–1933), state senator and mayor of Homer; taught school near Magnolia in the 1890s
 * Sidney Sanders McMath (1912-2003), governor of Arkansas (1949-1953), Major General, U.S.M.C. Reserve (1965-1970)
 * Mike Runnels (1945-2015), Lieutenant Governor of New Mexico
 * Horace M. Wade, former U.S. Air Force general, born in Magnolia 1916
 * Carl Wafer, former defensive end in the National Football League; born in Magnolia

Annexation
On January 12, 2007, Magnolia annexed 2325 acre east of the city, which includes approximately 1,100 people, increasing the population to 11,578. The city was expected to receive between $60,000 to $70,000 in state turnbacks per year as a result.

title: Magnolia, Arkansas


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McNeil, Arkansas

McNeil is a town in Columbia County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 516 at the 2010 census, down from 662 in 2000. The community was named after William B. McNeil, founder of the College Hill Academy.

Geography
McNeil is located in northern Columbia County 6 mi north of downtown Magnolia, the county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 3.5 km2, all land.

Logoly State Park, part of the Arkansas State Parks System, is located just east of McNeil, off Highway 79. Most of Logoly's 368 acre comprise a State Natural Area that includes unique plant species and mineral springs.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, McNeil has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2020 Census
As of the census of 2000, there were 662 people, 237 households, and 165 families residing in the city. The population density was 493.4 PD/sqmi. There were 280 housing units at an average density of 208.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 40.33% White, 58.31% Black or African American, 0.15% Asian, and 1.21% from two or more races. 1.36% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 237 households, out of which 35.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.5% were married couples living together, 21.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.0% were non-families. 26.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.79 and the average family size was 3.34.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 31.1% under the age of 18, 11.2% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 17.8% from 45 to 64, and 11.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $21,136, and the median income for a family was $27,188. Males had a median income of $24,135 versus $16,563 for females. The per capita income for the city was $8,986. About 26.9% of families and 32.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 43.2% of those under age 18 and 31.5% of those age 65 or over.

Highways

 * [[Image:US 79.svg|20px]] U.S. Highway 79
 * [[Image:Arkansas 98.svg|20px]] Arkansas Highway 98
 * [[Image:Arkansas 98B.svg|25px]] Arkansas Highway 98 Business

Education
Students are assigned to the Magnolia School District which operates Magnolia High School.

It was previously in the McNeil School District. On July 1, 2004, it consolidated into the Stephens School District. According to the Stephens school district's attorney, Clay Fendley, there was, in the words of Mike McNeill of the Magnolia Reporter, "bitterness" resulting from the McNeil consolidation.

The Arkansas Board of Education (ABE) voted to dissolve the Stephens School District in 2014, and the portion serving McNeil was given to the Magnolia School District. Before the ABE made its final decision to break up the Stephens district, it was deciding whether to consolidate it entirely with the Nevada School District or divide it into three pieces. McNeil residents favored the split-up proposal because their children could go to school in Magnolia, which is closer to McNeil than Stephens; Magnolia is 6 mi from McNeil.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: McNeil, Arkansas


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Taylor, Arkansas

Taylor is a city in Columbia County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 566 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Taylor is located in southwestern Columbia County.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.0 sqmi, all land.

Education
Public education for early childhood, elementary and secondary school students is provided by the Emerson–Taylor-Bradley School District (formerly the Emerson–Taylor School District), which includes Taylor Elementary School and Taylor High School. The district was established on July 1, 2004, by the consolidation of the Emerson School District and the Taylor School District.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 566 people, 220 households, and 166 families residing in the city. The population density was 566.2 PD/sqmi. There were 251 housing units at an average density of 251.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.70% White, 3.71% Black or African American, 0.53% Native American, 0.18% Pacific Islander, and 0.88% from two or more races. 0.53% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. There were 220 households, out of which 30.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.0% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.1% were non-families. 22.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.43 and the average family size was 2.78.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 21.2% under the age of 18, 9.2% from 18 to 24, 23.5% from 25 to 44, 24.0% from 45 to 64, and 22.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $31,534, and the median income for a family was $39,167. Males had a median income of $30,750 versus $18,125 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,725. About 6.2% of families and 9.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.9% of those under age 18 and 11.5% of those age 65 or over.

Highways

 * [[Image:US 371.svg|25px]] U.S. Highway 371
 * [[Image:Arkansas 160.svg|25px]] Arkansas Highway 160

title: Taylor, Arkansas


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Waldo, Arkansas

Waldo is a city in Columbia County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 1,372 at the 2010 census.

History

Waldo celebrated its 120th year as a city in 2007. The small community was once a booming rail city on the Cotton Belt train route. The city has a rail museum with various displays showing its rail history.

The city began to wane in population in the 1950s when neighboring Magnolia began drawing industry.

Waldo was once home to the Waldo High School Bulldogs basketball teams. Consistently these teams made playoffs and on numerous occasions won the state championship. The legacy of Waldo School will carry on in the community despite its closing in 2005.

The Waldo Water Tower, completed in 1936 by the Pittsburgh-Des Moines Steel Co., is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
Waldo is located in northwestern Columbia County. By U.S. Route 371 it is 7 mi northwest of Magnolia, the county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.9 km2, all land.

Waldo, located in South Arkansas near the northern Louisiana border, has a subtropical climate like that of the Bayou State and similar terrain. The area is characterized by lowlands and swamps. Most of the area in and about the city is covered with pine or hardwood forests.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,151 people, 558 households, and 329 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,594 people, 645 households, and 425 families residing in the city. The population density was 720.4 PD/sqmi. There were 749 housing units at an average density of 338.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 39.77% White, 58.72% Black or African American, 0.38% Native American, 0.63% from other races, and 0.50% from two or more races. 1.57% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 645 households, of which 29.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35.3% were married couples living together, 26.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.0% were non-families. 29.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 27.8% under the age of 18, 11.5% from 18 to 24, 24.0% from 25 to 44, 21.9% from 45 to 64, and 14.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 74.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $20,353, and the median income for a family was $24,306. Males had a median income of $25,300 versus $17,212 for females. The per capita income for the city was $11,170. About 30.6% of families and 34.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 49.2% of those under age 18 and 21.5% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The Magnolia School District, including Magnolia High School, serves the community. The Waldo School District consolidated into the Magnolia district on July 1, 2006. The Waldo district operated Waldo Elementary School (K-6) and Waldo High School (7-12).

Highways

 * [[Image:US 371.svg|25px]] U.S. Highway 371
 * [[Image:Arkansas 98.svg|20px]] Arkansas Highway 98

Notable people

 * Mujahid Abdul-Karim, leader of the Imam Mahdi Movement
 * Chris DeFrance, professional football player
 * Travis Jackson, baseball shortstop; National Baseball Hall of Fame
 * Sytia Messer, college basketball coach
 * Travis E. Watkins, recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Korean War

title: Waldo, Arkansas


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Menifee, Arkansas

Menifee is a town in Conway County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 302 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Menifee is located in southeastern Conway County at 35.14861°N, -92.55333°W (35.148602, −92.553318). U.S. Route 64 passes through the center of the town, leading southeast 9 mi to Conway and west 11 mi to Morrilton, the Conway County seat. Interstate 40 serves the town with one exit.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 5.7 sqkm, of which 0.02 sqkm, or 0.35%, is water.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 274 people, 45 households, and 30 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 311 people, 116 households, and 83 families residing in the town. The population density was 54.3/km$2$ (141.0/mi2). There were 141 housing units at an average density of 24.6/km$2$ (63.9/mi2). The racial makeup of the town was 11.90% White, 84.57% Black or African American, and 3.54% from two or more races. 1.93% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 116 households, out of which 34.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.8% were married couples living together, 19.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.4% were non-families. 26.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 3.20.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.9% under the age of 18, 9.0% from 18 to 24, 25.1% from 25 to 44, 19.6% from 45 to 64, and 17.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 85.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.6 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $27,500, and the median income for a family was $34,750. Males had a median income of $27,500 versus $20,859 for females. The per capita income for the town was $12,624. About 8.6% of families and 10.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.0% of those under age 18 and 14.5% of those age 65 or over.

title: Menifee, Arkansas


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Morrilton, Arkansas

Morrilton is a city in Conway County, Arkansas, United States, less than 50 mi northwest of Little Rock. The city is the county seat of Conway County. The population was 6,992 at the 2020 United States census.

History
In 1825 a trading post was established about a mile south of present-day Morrilton on the Arkansas River. This town, later named Lewisburg, thrived after being incorporated in 1844. In 1871 the Little Rock and Fort Smith Railroad built track through present day Morrilton. It was later named Morrilton after the previous landowners E.J. and George H. Morrill. The downtown grew around the Morrills' land and that owned by James M. Moose. Residents of Lewisburg eventually moved away from the river and to the railroad hub at Morrilton. In 1883 Morrilton became the seat of Conway County, Arkansas.

Geography
Morrilton is located in southern Conway County at 35.15639°N, -92.74194°W (35.156373, -92.741944). It is bordered on the south by the Arkansas River.

Interstate 40 passes through the northern side of the city, leading southeast 48 mi to Little Rock and west 107 mi to Fort Smith. U.S. Route 64 (East and West Broadway Street) is the main road through the city center, leading east 6 mi to Plumerville and northwest 13 mi to Atkins. Arkansas Highway 9 forms an eastern bypass of Morrilton and leads north 40 mi to Clinton and south across the Arkansas River 13 mi to Perryville.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Morrilton has a total area of 23.7 km2, of which 22.6 km2 is land and 1.0 km2, or 4.29%, is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Morrilton has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 6,992 people, 2,748 households, and 1,755 families residing in the city.

2010 census
As of the 2010 Census, 6,767 people and 2,759 households resided within the city.

2000 census
2000 Census results showed 1,724 families residing in the city. The population density was 796.7 PD/sqmi. There were 2,947 housing units at an average density of 358.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 78.38% White, 17.47% Black or African American, 0.79% Native American, 0.34% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 1.37% from other races, and 1.63% from two or more races. 3.37% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 2,645 households, out of which 30.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.2% were married couples living together, 15.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.8% were non-families. 32.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.4% under the age of 18, 8.7% from 18 to 24, 26.0% from 25 to 44, 20.2% from 45 to 64, and 19.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 79.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,007, and the median income for a family was $36,432. Males had a median income of $30,123 versus $19,213 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,957. About 13.4% of families and 17.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.6% of those under age 18 and 12.8% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
Many sites located in Morrilton are on the National Register of Historical Places, including:

 * Arkansas Christian College Administration Building – A former school building at 100 W Harding Street.
 * Aycock House - A historic house located at 410 West Church Street.
 * Coca-Cola Building - A historic commercial building at 211 North Moose Street.
 * Conway County Courthouse - Historic courthouse located at the corner of Moose and Church Streets in downtown.
 * Conway County Library - Classical Revival brick building library designed by Thomas Harding and funded in part by a grant from Andrew Carnegie.
 * Earl Building - A historic commercial building at 201 North St. Joseph Street.
 * First National Bank of Morrilton - A historic commercial building at Broadway and Moose Streets.
 * Moose Addition Neighborhood Historic District - Oldest residential area in Morrilton.
 * Moose House - A historic house at 711 Green Street.
 * Morrilton Commercial Historic District - The historic central business district.
 * Morrilton Post Office - Historic post office building at 117 North Division Street.
 * Morrilton Railroad Station - Historic station on Railroad Ave.
 * Saint Anthony's Hospital - Historic hospital building at 202 East Green Street.
 * West Church Street Historic District - A collection of the finest late-19th and early-20th century homes.
 * W. L. Wood House - A historic house at 709 North Morrill Street.

Museums

 * The Morrilton Depot Museum is located in the historic Morrilton Railroad Station and features history on the area. Adjoining the museum is a statue of the late Lt. Governor Winthrop Paul "Win" Rockefeller and the outdoor space is being developed as "Rockefeller Plaza" to honor the Lt. Governor and his father, Winthrop P. Rockefeller, the former Governor of Arkansas.
 * The Museum of Automobiles is located on nearby Petit Jean Mountain and features a collection of antique and classic cars, motorcycles, guns, license plates, arcade machines and automobile memorabilia.

Outdoor Recreation

 * Petit Jean State Park is a 3,471-acre (1,405 ha) park near Morrilton and is managed by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. It is located atop Petit Jean Mountain adjacent to the Arkansas River in the area between the Ouachita Mountains and Ozark Plateaus. The park's many hiking trails, historic sites and natural features were the inspiration for the Arkansas State Parks system and continue to draw many visitors to the area. In 2023, the state park was voted as the Best State Park for RVing/Camping.

Theatre

 * The Rialto Theatre in Downtown Morrilton has been in operation for over 100 years. It served as a movie house from 1911 until it was closed by United Artists in 1987.  In 1995 the city acquired the building and a group of volunteers restored the theatre.  It currently serves as a public arts facility hosting plays, concerts, public meetings, private events, and other happenings.
 * H.B. White Auditorium is on the campus of Morrilton High School. It serves as the main auditorium for the school district and hosts public events.
 * UACCM Fine Arts Auditorium is on the campus of the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton. It serves as the main auditorium for the college and hosts public events.

Government
The city has operated under the Mayor-Council form of government since it was founded. The city currently elects 11 positions: Mayor, City Clerk, City Attorney, and eight Council Member positions. The eight council members are represented by two members from each of the city's four wards. The council members are Ward 1: Greg Wiedower, Benny Baker. Ward 2: Gary Koch, Isaac Decker. Ward 3: Richard Deluca, Aaron Spivey. Ward 4: Jim Bowles, Kyle Roch. The current Mayor is Allen Lipsmeyer. The city employs over 100 individuals in nine different departments.

Most Conway County government offices are located in the city of Morrilton, including the Quorum, Circuit, District, and Juvenile Courts; and the Assessor, County Judge, County Coroner, County Attorney, and Public Defenders offices.

Public schools
The community's public school system is operated by the South Conway County School District. As of 2018, the district consists of five schools. The SCCSD public high school is Morrilton High School.

Morrilton's first public school for white students opened in 1881. 14 years later the first school for African-American students opened in 1895. In 1980 the East Side, Morrilton, and Plumerville School districts consolidated to form the new South Conway County district.

Private schools
Sacred Heart Catholic School is the only private school in the city of Morrilton and was established in 1879. It is one of only two private Roman Catholic schools in Arkansas that serves PreK-12.

Colleges and universities
Morrilton is home to the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton.

The city was home to Harding College, now Harding University of Searcy, Arkansas, for about a decade in the 1920s and 1930s. The original campus of Harding University is now the Southern Christian Home, a church-supported residential child care facility.

Public libraries
The Conway County Library is located at 101 West Church Street in Downtown Morrilton. The library was established in 1897 by the Pathfinder Club. It moved among members homes until 1916 when the Andrew Carnegie Foundation awarded the club a grant for a building. The Conway County Library is one of two public libraries in the state of Arkansas functioning from its original Carnegie building.

Notable people

 * Carl B. Close (1907–1980), Louisiana state representative, a Democrat, who also served as mayor of Alexandria from 1947 to 1953, was born at Robertsville near Morrilton, the son of the country physician, Edgar Close.
 * Nathan Green Gordon (1916–2008), sixth Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas and distinguished United States Navy aviator during World War II; born in Morrilton
 * James S. Moose, Jr. (1903–1989) First US Government Representative to live in Saudi Arabia, Ambassador to Syria and the Sudan
 * Winthrop Rockefeller (1912–1973), governor of Arkansas from 1967 to 1971; lived at Petit Jean Mountain near Morrilton
 * John R. Stallings (1935–2008), mathematician known for his seminal contributions to geometric group theory and 3-manifold topology; born in Morrilton
 * Shekinna Stricklen - Women's basketball player that graduated from Morrilton High School. Played collegiately for the University of Tennessee. She was selected in the first round of the 2012 WNBA draft (2nd overall) by the Seattle Storm. Won the 2019 WNBA Three Point Contest the day before the 2019 WNBA All-Star Game.
 * C. Vann Woodward (1908–1999), American historian focused primarily on the Southern United States and its individual sociology of race and ethnic relations. He attended Morrilton High School.

Print
The Petit Jean Country Headlight is the largest newspaper in the city. It was established April 8, 1874, in Lewisburg before moving to Morrilton. It currently serves as a weekly newspaper and publishes on Wednesdays.

Radio
KVOM (AM) first began airing on Christmas Day 1952 and was started by J.C. Willis. KVOM-FM began broadcasting on 101.7 MHz FM in 1979.

Television
Morrilton Community Channel 6 started on the local cable system during the 1990s. It currently broadcasts local events on channel 6 and their website.

title: Morrilton, Arkansas


text:
Oppelo, Arkansas

Oppelo  is a city in Conway County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 781 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Oppelo is located near the southern border of Conway County at 35.1025°N, -92.76833°W (35.102495, -92.768276). By Arkansas Highway 9, it is 3 mi south of the Arkansas River and 6 mi south of the center of Morrilton, the county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Oppelo has a total area of 6.5 km2, of which 6.4 km2 is land and 0.1 km2, or 2.05%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 725 people, 258 households, and 204 families residing in the city. The population density was 292.6 PD/sqmi. There were 285 housing units at an average density of 115.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.76% White, 0.14% Black or African American, 0.83% from other races, and 0.28% from two or more races. 2.48% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 258 households, out of which 41.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.8% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.9% were non-families. 16.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.81 and the average family size was 3.17.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 28.4% under the age of 18, 9.5% from 18 to 24, 28.8% from 25 to 44, 20.6% from 45 to 64, and 12.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,202, and the median income for a family was $41,667. Males had a median income of $32,083 versus $19,167 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,674. About 10.1% of families and 13.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.1% of those under age 18 and 9.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Oppelo, Arkansas


text:
Plumerville, Arkansas

Plumerville is a city in Conway County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 734 at the 2020 census.

Geography
Plumerville is located in southern Conway County at 35.16083°N, -92.64278°W (35.160896, -92.642794), along U.S. Route 64, which leads east 5 mi to Menifee and west 6 mi to Morrilton, the county seat. Interstate 40 passes through the northern edge of the city with access from one exit and leads southeast 45 mi to Little Rock and west 113 mi to Fort Smith.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Plumerville has a total area of 3.0 km2, of which 0.04 sqkm, or 1.39%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 854 people, 345 households, and 239 families residing in the city. The population density was 856.0 PD/sqmi. There were 379 housing units at an average density of 379.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 72.95% White, 23.65% Black or African American, 0.47% Native American, 0.35% Asian, 0.12% Pacific Islander, 0.35% from other races, and 2.11% from two or more races. 1.17% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 345 households, out of which 33.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.2% were married couples living together, 19.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.7% were non-families. 27.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.48 and the average family size was 2.98.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 26.5% under the age of 18, 9.6% from 18 to 24, 27.4% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 13.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 85.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,571, and the median income for a family was $37,679. Males had a median income of $27,014 versus $21,607 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,968. About 15.1% of families and 21.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.7% of those under age 18 and 14.0% of those age 65 or over.

History
Plumerville began as Plummer's Station, a stage station on the Fort Smith to Memphis branch of the Butterfield Overland Mail.

The old downtown area of Plumerville was completely destroyed by fire in 1987. The old town jail or "calaboose" (built circa 1880) still stands intact on Springfield Street near the new city hall.

Assassination
John Middleton Clayton (October 13, 1840 – January 29, 1889) was a Republican carpetbagger to Arkansas, originally from Pennsylvania. He was also the younger brother of Powell Clayton, a Governor of Arkansas.

In 1871, John Clayton was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives, representing Jefferson County, and in 1873 he served in the Arkansas Senate representing Jefferson, Bradley, Grant and Lincoln counties, also serving as Speaker of the Senate pro tempore for part of his term.

He is best remembered today from his mysterious assassination in 1889. In 1888, he ran for the office of Arkansas's 2nd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives, going up against incumbent Democrat Clifton R. Breckinridge. The election became one of the most fraudulent in Arkansas' history. Clayton lost the election by a margin of 846 votes of over 34,000 votes cast. However, in one case in Conway County, four masked, armed white men stormed into a predominantly black voting precinct and, at gunpoint, stole the ballot box that contained a large majority of votes for Clayton. Losing under such circumstances, Clayton decided to contest the election and went to Plumerville to start an investigation on the matter. On the evening of January 29, 1889, an unknown assailant shot through the window to the room he was staying in at a local boarding house (still standing at 101 N. Springfield Street) and killed him instantly. He was later declared the winner of the election and Breckinridge was unseated and the seat declared vacant. Clayton's assassin was never found. Breckinridge was not found guilty in any wrongdoing in the rigged election or in Clayton's assassination and was elected to fill the vacant seat in 1890.

Education
It is within the South Conway County School District. It operates Morrilton High School.

In 1980 the East Side, Morrilton, and Plumerville School districts consolidated to form the new South Conway County district.

Notable people

 * Paxton Crawford (1977-) Major league baseball player
 * Maurice Jeffers (1979-) Professional basketball player
 * John H. Yancey, (1918-1986) Highly decorated United States Marine Corps combat veteran of World War II and the Korean War.

title: Plumerville, Arkansas


text:
Bay, Arkansas

Bay is a city in Craighead County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 1,876 at the 2020 census. It is included in the Jonesboro Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Bay is located in the Arkansas Delta. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.3 sqmi, all land.

Ecologically, Bay is located within the St. Francis Lowlands ecoregion within the larger Mississippi Alluvial Plain. The St. Francis Lowlands are a flat region mostly covered with row crop agriculture today, though also containing sand blows and sunken lands remaining from the 1811–12 New Madrid earthquakes. Waterways have mostly been channelized, causing loss of aquatic and riparian wildlife habitat. The St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area, which preserves some of the bottomland hardwood forest typical of this ecoregion prior to development for row agriculture lies east of Bay along the St. Francis River.

History
Located at 35.756882,-90.56504, there are only 2 remaining mounds of society who inhabited the area between 1200 and 1400AD. The Bay group itself culturally belongs to the Lawhorn Phase, a society which existed along both sides of the St. Francis River north of Marked Tree, Arkansas.

At 3:01 PM on April 27, 2011, a tornado hit Bay as part of the 2011 Super Outbreak. The tornado was rated low-end EF2, with estimated wind speeds of 115 mph. The tornado lifted a carport and other light debris at the jonesboro Airport; its path of destruction was 200 yd wide and the tornado travelled a path of 0.7 mi.

List of highways

 * I-555 (AR 1961).svg Interstate 555

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,876 people, 717 households, and 532 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,800 people, 690 households, and 518 families residing in the city. The population density was 536.7 PD/sqmi. There were 734 housing units at an average density of 218.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.39% White, 2.94% Black or African American, 0.17% Native American, 0.78% from other races, and 0.72% from two or more races. 1.50% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 690 households, out of which 35.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.0% were married couples living together, 12.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.8% were non-families. 22.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.07.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 27.7% under the age of 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 28.3% from 25 to 44, 22.7% from 45 to 64, and 13.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $29,828, and the median income for a family was $35,833. Males had a median income of $28,594 versus $19,732 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,743. About 13.3% of families and 15.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.5% of those under age 18 and 19.7% of those age 65 or over.

Notable person

 * Wally Moon, baseball player

title: Bay, Arkansas


text:
Black Oak, Arkansas

Black Oak is a town in Craighead County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 262 at the 2010 census. It is included in the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Black Oak is located in eastern Craighead County 20 mi east of Jonesboro, the county seat, and 4 mi south of Monette. According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.4 sqmi, all land.

Ecologically, Black Oak is located within the St. Francis Lowlands ecoregion within the larger Mississippi Alluvial Plain. The St. Francis Lowlands are a flat region mostly covered with row crop agriculture today, though also containing sand blows and sunken lands remaining from the 1811–12 New Madrid earthquakes. Waterways have mostly been channelized, causing loss of aquatic and riparian wildlife habitat. The St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area, which preserves some of the bottomland hardwood forest typical of this ecoregion prior to development for row agriculture lies just west of Black Oak along the St. Francis River.

List of highways

 * [[Image:Arkansas 18.svg|20px]] Highway 18
 * [[Image:Arkansas 135.svg|20px]] Highway 135
 * [[Image:Arkansas 148.svg|20px]] Highway 148

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 286 people, 120 households, and 81 families residing in the town. The population density was 641.3 PD/sqmi. There were 132 housing units at an average density of 296.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.55% White, 0.35% Black or African American, 0.70% Native American, 0.70% Asian, 0.70% from other races. 0.70% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 120 households, out of which 24.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.2% were married couples living together, 5.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.7% were non-families. 28.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 20.3% under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 24.5% from 45 to 64, and 22.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $22,353, and the median income for a family was $32,917. Males had a median income of $26,042 versus $20,833 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,237. 17.5% of the population and 10.7% of families were below the poverty line. Out of the total population, 27.1% of those under the age of 18 and 16.7% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line.

Notable people
Black Oak is the hometown of the founding members of the 1970s Southern rock band Black Oak Arkansas.

John Grisham attended first grade at Black Oak Elementary School for one semester, and his novel A Painted House is set in Black Oak and the surrounding area.

Other communities named "Black Oak"
There are two other, smaller, communities in Arkansas named Black Oak, one of which is in Washington County, approximately 8 mi southeast of Fayetteville. The other is in Poinsett County, about 5 mi south of Marked Tree. The DeLorme atlas of Arkansas suggests these two hamlets are little more than crossroads.

title: Black Oak, Arkansas


text:
Bono, Arkansas

Bono is a city in Craighead County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 2,131 at the 2010 census, up from 1,512 in 2000. It is included in the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area. Bono's most prominent landmarks are the Bono Bridge and the Bono Cemetery.

Geography
Bono is located in northwestern Craighead County 8 mi northwest of Jonesboro, the county seat, via U.S. Route 63. The city of Walnut Ridge is 15 mi farther to the northwest along US 63. As of 2024, the city is governed by Mayor Danny Shaw.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.7 km2, all land.

List of highways

 * [[Image:US 63B.svg|25px]] U.S. Route 63 Business
 * [[Image:Arkansas 230.svg|25px]] Arkansas Highway 230
 * [[Image:Arkansas 230.svg|25px]] Arkansas Highway 230

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 2,409 people, 950 households, and 653 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,512 people, 574 households, and 435 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,052.5 PD/sqmi. There were 634 housing units at an average density of 441.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.69% White, 0.13% Black or African American, 0.26% Native American, 0.07% Asian, 0.66% from other races, and 1.19% from two or more races. 1.72% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. There were 574 households, out of which 42.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.7% were married couples living together, 16.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.2% were non-families. 20.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.63 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 31.1% under the age of 18, 10.4% from 18 to 24, 31.2% from 25 to 44, 19.6% from 45 to 64, and 7.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 29 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $31,307, and the median income for a family was $33,618. Males had a median income of $25,063 versus $18,426 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,764. About 13.6% of families and 15.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.7% of those under age 18 and 13.8% of those aged 65 or over.

Education
Bono residents are served by the Westside Consolidated School District. The district opened in 1966 after the Bono School District merged into it. Its high school is Westside High School.

Climate
The climate is characterized by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. The Köppen Climate Classification sub-type for this climate is "Cfa" (Humid Subtropical Climate).

title: Bono, Arkansas


text:
Brookland, Arkansas

Brookland is a city in Craighead County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 1,642 at the 2010 census. It is included in the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Brookland is located in northern Craighead County. Via U.S. Route 49 it is 8 mi northeast of downtown Jonesboro. Paragould is 12 mi north via US 49.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.3 km2, of which 0.02 sqkm, or 0.33%, is water.

List of highways

 * [[Image:Arkansas 1.svg|20px]] Highway 1
 * [[Image:Arkansas 230.svg|20px]] Highway 230
 * [[Image:Arkansas 230.svg|20px]] Highway 230

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 4,064 people, 1,337 households, and 945 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,332 people, 499 households, and 384 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,220.1 PD/sqmi. There were 537 housing units at an average density of 491.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.52% White, 0.68% Black or African American, 0.38% Native American, 0.68% from other races, and 0.75% from two or more races. 1.05% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 499 households, out of which 43.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.3% were married couples living together, 14.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.0% were non-families. 19.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.67 and the average family size was 3.07.

In the town the population was spread out, with 29.7% under the age of 18, 9.2% from 18 to 24, 31.8% from 25 to 44, 17.6% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $33,125, and the median income for a family was $37,500. Males had a median income of $27,471 versus $18,864 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,744. About 7.0% of families and 11.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 17.4% of those under age 18 and 18.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Brookland, Arkansas


text:
Caraway, Arkansas

Caraway is a city in Craighead County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 1,279 at the 2010 census. It is included in the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
The town originally began as a lumber camp known as White Switch in 1912. It was incorporated in 1923, taking its name from then-U.S. Senator Thaddeus Caraway.

Geography
Caraway is located in the Arkansas Delta region. According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 6.0 km2, all land.

Ecologically, Caraway is located within the St. Francis Lowlands ecoregion within the larger Mississippi Alluvial Plain. The St. Francis Lowlands are a flat region mostly covered with row crop agriculture today, though also containing sand blows and sunken lands remaining from the 1811–12 New Madrid earthquakes. Waterways have mostly been channelized, causing loss of aquatic and riparian wildlife habitat. The St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area, which preserves some of the bottomland hardwood forest typical of this ecoregion prior to development for row agriculture lies just west of Caraway along the St. Francis River.

List Of Highways

 * [[Image:Arkansas 135.svg|20px]] Highway 135
 * [[Image:Arkansas 139.svg|20px]] Highway 139
 * [[Image:Arkansas 158.svg|20px]] Highway 158

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,133 people, 422 households, and 231 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,349 people, 547 households, and 386 families residing in the town. The population density was 224.5 /km2. There were 606 housing units at an average density of 100.9 /km2. The racial makeup of the town was 97.63% White, 0.07% Native American, 0.07% Asian, 1.33% from other races, and 0.89% from two or more races. 2.89% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 547 households, out of which 34.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.1% were married couples living together, 13.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.4% were non-families. 27.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the town the population was spread out, with 25.4% under the age of 18, 9.0% from 18 to 24, 25.8% from 25 to 44, 24.9% from 45 to 64, and 14.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $22,279, and the median income for a family was $26,600. Males had a median income of $25,809 versus $17,000 for females. The per capita income for the town was $11,647. About 21.9% of families and 26.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 37.1% of those under age 18 and 35.6% of those age 65 or over.

Education
It is a part of the Riverside School District. It was served by the Caraway School District until it consolidated into Riverside on July 1, 1985.

Notable people

 * Nick Bacon, an army first sergeant during the Vietnam War and recipient of the Medal of Honor
 * Deleta Williams, Missouri state representative

title: Caraway, Arkansas


text:
Cash, Arkansas

Cash is a city in western Craighead County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 342 at the 2010 census. Cash Arkansas population was of mostly white with 99.8% and partial Puerto Rican ethnicity. It is included in the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The name "Cash" is a corruption of the Cache River.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.0 km2, all land.

List Of Highways

 * [[Image:Arkansas 18.svg|20px]] Highway 18
 * [[Image:Arkansas 226.svg|20px]] Highway 226
 * [[Image:Arkansas 226.svg|20px]] Highway 226

Demographics
As of the census of 2010, there were 342 people, 120 households, and 90 families residing in the town. The population density was 306.8 /km2. There were 141 housing units at an average density of 147.1 /km2. The racial makeup of the town was 98.98% White, 0.68% Black or African American and 0.34% Asian. 0.68% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 120 households, out of which 29.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.3% were married couples living together, 15.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.0% were non-families. 24.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 2.87.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 25.5% under the age of 18, 9.2% from 18 to 24, 26.5% from 25 to 44, 21.4% from 45 to 64, and 17.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.4 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $22,500, and the median income for a family was $24,722. Males had a median income of $26,136 versus $17,188 for females. The per capita income for the town was $11,888. About 10.0% of families and 17.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 31.1% of those under the age of 18 and 8.3% of those 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Carolina Cotton (A.K.A. the Yodeling Blonde Bombshell) best known for her unique style of Western Swing yodeling in the 1940s and 1950s.

Education
Cash residents are served by the Westside Consolidated School District. The district opened in 1966 after the Cash School District merged into it. Its high school is Westside High School.

title: Cash, Arkansas


text:
Egypt, Arkansas

Egypt is a town in Craighead County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 112 at the 2010 census. It is included in the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Egypt, Arkansas is a small town located in Craighead County near the Cache River. The town was established in 1898 by New York businessmen attracted to the area's abundant timber. The narrow gauge railway by the Sedgwick Tie and Timber Company connected the town to the major line of the Kansas City, Fort Scott and Memphis Railroad, which stimulated its growth. The town was home to several stores, a gin, a school, and churches in the 1930s and 1950s, but never experienced major growth due to its location far from the main railway line and major highways. In 1942 an oil pipeline pumping station was built near Bald Knob, Ar. to move oil northeast along the Big Inch oil pipeline. The town's decline started after the cutting of timber and the consolidation of schools. It was incorporated as a town in 1984 and had a population of 113 in the 2020 census.

Geography
Egypt is located in western Craighead County and was named after Victoria Eyshept. Eyshept was a Welsh noblewoman who was one of the first settlers: due to her thick accent, Americans assumed she was saying "Egypt", and the name stuck.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.9 km2, all of which is land.

Only one highway runs through the small community, Arkansas Highway 91, which intersects Craighead County Road 192 at the center of the town.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 101 people, 43 households, and 28 families residing in the town. The population density was 274.5 PD/sqmi. There were 51 housing units at an average density of 138.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.03% White, and 2.97% from two or more races. 0.99% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 43 households, out of which 23.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.8% were married couples living together, 16.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.6% were non-families. 30.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.90.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 24.8% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 19.8% from 25 to 44, 19.8% from 45 to 64, and 27.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 71.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 76.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $18,750, and the median income for a family was $24,063. Males had a median income of $19,583 versus $16,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $9,828. There were 22.6% of families and 29.9% of the population living below the poverty line, including 55.6% of under eighteens and 13.8% of those over 64.

Education
Egypt residents are served by the Westside Consolidated School District. The district opened in 1966 after the Egypt school district merged into it. Its high school is Westside High School.

title: Egypt, Arkansas


text:
Jonesboro, Arkansas

Jonesboro is a city located on Crowley's Ridge in the northeastern corner of the U.S. State of Arkansas. Jonesboro is one of two county seats of Craighead County. In 2023, the city had an estimated population of 80,560, making it the fifth-most populous city in Arkansas. In 2020, the Jonesboro metropolitan area had a population of 134,196, and the Jonesboro-Paragould Combined Statistical Area had a population of 179,932.

Jonesboro is the home of Arkansas State University and is the cultural and economic center of Northeast Arkansas.

History
The Jonesboro area was first inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous peoples. At the time of the European encounter, historic tribes included the Osage, the Caddo, and the Quapaw. The name for the state of Arkansas comes from the Quapaw language. The French and Spanish traders and trappers had relations with those groups.

After the United States acquired this territory in the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, American settlers eventually made their way to an area near Jonesboro. They began exploring, hunting, trapping, and trading with local Indian tribes. The permanent settlement of Jonesboro was established shortly after 1859, when Craighead County was established.

In 1859, land was taken from nearby Greene, Mississippi, and Poinsett counties and was used to form Craighead County. Jonesboro was designated as the original county seat. As the population increased to the west of the county, Lake City was named as the second seat. Jonesboro had 150 residents in 1859. It was named after State Senator William A. Jones in recognition of his support for the formation of Craighead County. Originally spelled Jonesborough, the city name was later shortened to its present-day spelling.

In 1881, a young woman was brutally murdered in an apparent robbery. Her father had left their farm for a short while and returned to find her in a pool of her own blood. Four black men were arrested in conjunction with the crime, and after their trial, The Jonesboro Lynching of 1881 took place at midnight on March 12. The Decatur Daily Republican reported that the four men, called Green Harris (sometimes referred to as Hawes), Giles Peck, John Woods (sometimes referred to as Jud Woods), and Burt Hoskins (sometimes referred to as Haskins)—had been arrested and tried before magistrates Jackson and Akers at New Haven Church, eight miles north of Jonesboro. The hearing, which found that the men were guilty, was attended by several hundred people. According to this and several other reports, the accused made a complete confession. The magistrates bound them over to the grand jury, and they were ordered taken to the jail in Jonesboro. The hour being late, however, it was decided to hold them overnight in the church under a strong guard. The large crowd gradually dispersed, "muttering threats of vengeance." Around midnight, between 200 and 300 masked men surrounded the church, overpowered the guards, and broke in the doors and windows. They seized the accused, dragged them to a tree about 200 yards away, and hanged them. Once again, the crowd dispersed, "leaving the bodies of their victims dangling in the air and presenting a horrible spectacle in the moonlight." According to the Republican, "The crime and punishment form one of the blackest pages in the annals of the state."

During the late 19th century, the city tried to develop its court system and downtown infrastructure. Shortly after the city was named county seat, the highest point in Jonesboro was identified and a courthouse was planned for construction. This was delayed for several years, for the locals did not want to ruin their deer hunting. The first courthouse was finally completed but was destroyed by a fire in 1869. A store across from this site was rented and used as a courthouse. It was destroyed in an 1876 fire. Another building was constructed on the same site, but it fell to a fire in 1878, a major one that destroyed most of downtown Jonesboro. Soon afterward, another courthouse was constructed; it was replaced by the present courthouse in 1934.

The St. Louis Southwestern Railway, known as the Cotton Belt Railroad was constructed through Jonesboro, with its tracks passing just north of the center of the city. During the first train's journey, it became stuck and supplies had to be carried into town. It connected St. Louis to points in Arkansas and Texas. Other major railways began to construct tracks to and from Jonesboro, including the St. Louis–San Francisco Railway and Missouri Pacific Railroad. Some of the rail companies still own and use the tracks that run through Jonesboro.

The city set up the Jonesboro School District in 1899. In 1900, St. Bernard's Regional Medical Center was established by the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters. The Grand Leader Department Store, the first department store in the city, was opened in 1900. Woodland College and two schools within the Jonesboro School District were opened in 1904. Arkansas State College (now Arkansas State University) was established in 1909, a year in which the first horseless carriages were driven in the city. There is a recording on a Sanborn Fire Insurance Map dating back to March 1897 of a Presbyterian Church existing at the corner of Church St. and Monroe, and a Christian church located at the corner of Union and Huntington Ave. Other early churches of the city were started in the 1910s. First Baptist Church was founded in 1911, and First Methodist Church in 1916.

Wade Thomas was lynched on December 26, 1920, in downtown Jonesboro. A large white mob seized Thomas after he allegedly shot local Patrolman Elmer Ragland during a Christmas Day raid on a local dice game. He was paraded through the town and then hanged and his body riddled with bullets.

On September 10, 1931, Governor Harvey Parnell authorized the Arkansas National Guard to be deployed in Jonesboro to quell the Church War, a clash between the followers of Joe Jeffers and Dow H. Heard, the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Jonesboro. Jeffers' supporters also attacked the mayor and police chief, resulting in front-page coverage of the incident in The New York Times.

On May 15, 1968 an F4 tornado struck Jonesboro, destroying 164 homes. At least 34 people died and more than 350 people were injured as a result of the tornado which struck the town without warning at 10:00pm that night.

On May 27, 1973, shortly after midnight, an F4 tornado struck Jonesboro, killing 3 and injuring 289. Damage was estimated at 60 million in 1973 dollars.

The 1998 Westside Middle School shooting occurred on March 24. Two young boys (aged 11 and 13 years) fired upon students at Westside Middle School while hidden in woodlands near the school. They killed four students and one teacher, and injured 10 persons.

In the 2007–2008 school year the Jonesboro Public School District elementary schools were reclassified as magnet schools.

2020 tornado
A "large, destructive" EF3 tornado struck Jonesboro on March 28, 2020, causing severe damage to The Mall at Turtle Creek and at least twenty minor injuries, and two severe injuries.

Geography
Jonesboro is located atop Crowley's Ridge in northeastern Arkansas.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 208.4 km2, of which 206.9 km2 is land and 1.5 km2, or 0.72%, is water.

Climate
Jonesboro has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa).

Demographics
It is the principal city of the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 78,576 people, 29,688 households, and 19,637 families residing in the city.

2013
As of the census of 2013, there were 71,551 people, 26,111 households, and 16,637 families residing in the city. The population density was 697.1 PD/sqmi. There were 28,321 housing units at an average density of 304.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 74.7% White, 18.4% Black, 0.4% Native American, 1.5% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 1.0% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. 5.2% of the population were Hispanic.

There were 26,111 households, out of which 30.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.9% were married couples living together, 12.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.4% were non-families. There are 878 unmarried partner households: 776 heterosexual, 50 same-sex male, and 52 same-sex female households. 27.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.9% under the age of 18, 16.6% from 18 to 24, 28.1% from 25 to 44, 20.5% from 45 to 64, and 11.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,196, and the median income for a family was $42,082. Males had a median income of $21,633 versus $31,633 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,884. About 12.9% of families and 23.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 22.4% of those under age 18 and 12.3% of those age 65 or over.

Economy
The Mall at Turtle Creek, opened in 2006, was the largest mall in northeast Arkansas and was the only enclosed mall constructed in the country that year. The mall closed in 2020 due to tornado damage; currently, the only stores in operation at Turtle Creek are Dillard's, JCPenney, and Target. Before The Mall at Turtle Creek opened, Indian Mall, named for the former mascot of Arkansas State University, was the primary shopping destination in northeast Arkansas. The Indian Mall was demolished in 2012.

Points of interest
Craighead Forest Park is a city-owned park located on Crowley's Ridge featuring a 60-acre fishing lake, camping facilities, hiking/biking trails, nature areas, picnic sites and recreational fields.

Crowley's Ridge Parkway runs through Jonesboro. It was designated one of Arkansas' Scenic Byways in 1997, and it was designated Arkansas' first National Scenic Byway in 1998.

In 2004 the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission opened the 160-acre Forrest L. Wood Crowley's Ridge Nature Center in south Jonesboro, adjacent to Craighead Forest Park. The center includes exhibits on the origins and history of the Ridge, wildlife, educational models and displays, land and water features, hiking trails, an observation tower and an auditorium.

Located on the ASU campus, the Arkansas State University Museum is accredited by the American Association of Museums and features 21,000 square feet of historic, archaeological, and natural history exhibits. The museum focuses on the history and cultural heritage of Northeast Arkansas and the Mississippi River Delta region.

Higher education
Arkansas State University is located in Jonesboro. New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine maintains a second location on Arkansas State University's campus in Wilson Hall.

The Northeast Arkansas Career & Tech Center is also located in Jonesboro.

Elementary and secondary education
There are six public school districts operating within the city limits of Jonesboro:
 * Jonesboro School District
 * Valley View School District
 * Nettleton School District
 * Westside Consolidated School District
 * Bay School District
 * Brookland School District

Prior to School integration in the United States, a separate set of schools was maintained for White and Black children. Booker T. Washington High School provided education for Black children from surrounding areas under contract at until the schools were finally integrated. Jonesboro was a leader in educating African-American Children.

Air service
The region is served by the Jonesboro Municipal Airport.

Public transport
The city is served by the Jonesboro Economic Transit System (JETS). As of 2011, JETS operates three fixed routes, as well as para-transit service for disabled persons. Intercity bus service to the city is provided by Greyhound Lines.

Notable people
• Blake Anderson, football coach

• David Auburn, playwright and screenwriter, best known for Proof

• Earl Bell, pole vaulter and Olympian

• Wes Bentley, Actor, born in Jonesboro

• Gene Bradley, former quarterback for the New Jersey Generals

• Al Bramlet, former labor union leader

• Rodger Bumpass, voice of Squidward on SpongeBob SquarePants

• Hattie Wyatt Caraway, first woman elected to the U.S. Senate

• Paul Caraway, son of Hattie Caraway; high commissioner of U.S. Civil Administration of the Ryukyu Islands

• Matt Cavenaugh, Broadway actor

• Francis Cherry, former Arkansas governor (1953–1955)

• Austin Cook, professional golfer

• Harold Copenhaver, current mayor of Jonesboro

• Rick Crawford, U.S. Congressman

• Ferd Dreher, football player

• Michelle Gray, state representative since 2013 *John Grisham, novelist

• Jeff Hartwig, pole vaulter

• Julia Butterfly Hill, environmental activist

• Larry Lacewell, former director of scouting for Dallas Cowboys

• Evan Lindquist, first Artist Laureate of Arkansas

• Kyle Dean Massey, Broadway actor

• Dustin McDaniel, former Arkansas attorney general

• Malik Monk, basketball player

• Ben Murphy, actor, known for role in Alias Smith and Jones

• Jon Olsen, Olympic gold medalist swimmer

• Billy Lee Riley, rockabilly musician

• David Ring, Christian evangelist and motivational speaker

• Jeremy Sivits, former U.S. Army soldier discharged after connections to Abu Ghraib torture and prisoner abuse

• Brandt Smith, member of the Arkansas House of Representatives

• W. Stephen Smith, voice teacher, author, and Northwestern University professor

• John W. Snyder, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President Harry S. Truman

• Dan A. Sullivan, member of Arkansas House of Representatives since 2015

• Charley Thornton, college sports administrator

• Dwight Tosh, member of Arkansas House of Representatives since 2015

• Bobby Lee Trammell, rockabilly musician

• Debbye Turner, winner of Miss America 1990

• Frederick C. Turner, Jr., one of the first Black students and first Black faculty member at ASU; U.S. Army officer

• Zach Williams, Christian rock artist

title: Jonesboro, Arkansas


text:
Lake City, Arkansas

Lake City is a city in Craighead County, Arkansas, United States, along the St. Francis River. Lake City is one of two county seats in Craighead County. The population was 2,326 as of the 2020 census. It is included in the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Lake City is located in eastern Craighead County at 35.81778°N, -90.44°W (35.817866, -90.439927), along the west bank of the St. Francis River. It is 16 mi east of downtown Jonesboro.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 7.9 km2, of which 7.8 sqkm is land and 0.1 sqkm, or 1.35%, is water.

List of highways

 * [[Image:Arkansas 18.svg|20px]] Highway 18
 * [[Image:Arkansas 135.svg|20px]] Highway 135
 * [[Image:Arkansas 158.svg|20px]] Highway 158

Notable facts and former residents
The St. Francis River Bridge located in Lake City is the only lift bridge in the world that has been raised only once since its construction. To construct a four-lane highway, a new bridge was constructed in 2002 and the lift bridge was moved to a location just south of the new bridge where it remains as a landmark.

Bart Barber, 64th President of the Southern Baptist Convention, was born and raised in Lake City.

Gavin Blaine Stone, professional baseball pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB/2023-), was born and attended Riverside High School in Lake City.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 2,326 people, 936 households, and 651 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,956 people, 731 households, and 546 families residing in the town. The population density was 881.9 PD/sqmi. There were 776 housing units at an average density of 349.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.67% White, 0.05% Black or African American, 0.36% Native American, 0.05% Asian, 0.26% from other races, and 0.61% from two or more races. 1.02% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 731 households, out of which 37.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.8% were married couples living together, 15.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.3% were non-families. 23.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.57 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 27.0% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 20.7% from 45 to 64, and 16.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.4 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $30,844, and the median income for a family was $33,477. Males had a median income of $27,798 versus $19,205 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,126. About 11.4% of families and 14.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.1% of those under age 18 and 9.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Lake City is part of the Riverside School District, formed as a result of consolidation with the Lake City School District with that of nearby Caraway on July 1, 1985. The Riverside High School mascot and athletic teams are known as "the Rebels". There are two elementary schools associated with the school: one is located in Lake City and the other in Caraway.

title: Lake City, Arkansas


text:
Monette, Arkansas

Monette is a city in Craighead County, Arkansas, United States. The city is located in an area of Northeast Arkansas known as Buffalo Island. The population was 1,506 at the 2020 census.

History
The city of Monette was initially settled in 1898, when the Jonesboro, Lake City and Eastern Railroad bypassed the town of Stottsville (about a mile away from the town's present location, founded by Adam Stots in the 1870's) in 1898. Settlers and businessmen in Stottsville decided to relocate to the new railroad. The first train arrived in Monette on August 19, 1898, and the town was incorporated two years later on July 3, 1900. On December 10, 2021, a large and violent EF4 tornado part of a large tornado outbreak struck Monette. One person was killed at a nursing home on the north side of town.

Geography
Monette is located in eastern Craighead County. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 16.3 km2, of which 0.03 sqkm, or 0.19%, is water.

Ecologically, Monette is located within the St. Francis Lowlands ecoregion within the larger Mississippi Alluvial Plain. The St. Francis Lowlands are a flat region mostly covered with row crop agriculture today, though also containing sand blows and sunken lands remaining from the 1811–12 New Madrid earthquakes. Waterways have mostly been channelized, causing loss of aquatic and riparian wildlife habitat. The St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area, which preserves some of the bottomland hardwood forest typical of this ecoregion prior to development for row agriculture lies just west of Monette along the St. Francis River.

List of highways

 * [[Image:Arkansas 18.svg|20px]] Highway 18
 * [[Image:Arkansas 139.svg|20px]] Highway 139

Demographics
Monette is included in the Jonesboro, Arkansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,506 people, 730 households, and 449 families residing in the city.

2009
As of the census of 2009, there were 1,247 people, 529 households, and 321 families residing in the city. The population density was 721.8 PD/sqmi. There were 572 housing units at an average density of 348.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.61% White, 0.08% Black or African American, 0.08% Native American, 1.44% from other races, and 1.78% from two or more races. 2.63% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 525 households, out of which 23.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.2% were married couples living together, 10.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.6% were non-families. 37.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 24.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.12 and the average family size was 2.78.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 19.7% under the age of 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 23.6% from 25 to 44, 23.7% from 45 to 64, and 25.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 76.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 73.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $27,500, and the median income for a family was $33,796. Males had a median income of $28,375 versus $20,109 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,517. About 13.3% of families and 16.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 20.8% of those under age 18 and 25.7% of those age 65 or over.

Public education
Monette is the headquarters for the Buffalo Island Central School District, which provides public education to more than 850 elementary and secondary school students in Craighead and Mississippi counties. Students graduate from the Monette-based Buffalo Island Central High School. The school's mascot and athletic emblem is the Mustangs.

The Buffalo Island Central School District was established on July 1, 1984. Until that point the Monette School District served the community; on that day it merged with the Leachville School District to form the current school district.

Public libraries
Kohn Memorial Library is the city's public library and one of seven branch libraries of the Crowley Ridge Regional library system.

Notable persons

 * Jim "Dandy" Mangrum, lead singer and frontman of the Southern rock band Black Oak Arkansas
 * Dave Wallace, Republican member of the Arkansas House of Representatives from Mississippi County; former Monette resident

title: Monette, Arkansas


text:
Alma, Arkansas

Alma is a city in Crawford County, in far western Arkansas, United States. It is located within the Arkansas River Valley at the edge of the Ozark Mountains; the city is the sixth largest in the Fort Smith metropolitan area. The population was 5,419 at the 2010 Census. Interstates 40 and 49 were constructed to intersect near the exicting city.

History
Alma was incorporated in 1874. Its economy was largely agricultural until the introduction of the canning industry. Today, the city claims the title of "Spinach Capital of the World".

In his book Washington Goes to War (1996), David Brinkley described Alma's participation in the World War II effort: In the town of Alma, Arkansas (population 776), one-fourth of the girls in the 1944 high school graduating class signed up to leave for Washington, and several of their teachers cast aside their low-paying jobs and went with them, all of them climbing aboard a Pullman car for their first train ride, looking for more money and excitement than they had any reasonable expectation of finding in Alma. Many people migrated from small towns to the capital seeking jobs as the government and associated businesses expanded to run the war effort.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 14.4 km2, of which 14.0 km2 is land and 0.4 km2, or 3.06%, is water.

Alma is located in south-central Crawford County and has no airport. The train station, which fell into a state of dilapidation, was torn down in the early 1970s.

Much of its commerce derives from interstate highway traffic, as Interstates 40 and 49 (previously 540), as well as U.S. Routes 64 and 71, pass through the city.

The city gets its water supply from Alma Lake, which is located above the city on the northeast. The lake was formed by a tall earthen dam that blocks Little Frog Bayou. Alma Lake is the reservoir that supplies the city's tap water.

Alma developed along the border between the Boston Mountains and the Arkansas River Valley. While most of the city lies on flat land, immediately to the north is scenic hill country. Alma is surrounded by several rural towns, including Rudy to the north, Dyer and Mulberry to the east, and Kibler to the southwest.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 5,825 people, 2,279 households, and 1,539 families residing in the city. The population density of Alma was 1,016.2 people per square mile.

37.6% of the population were under 18, and 7.0% were under 5. 13.0% of the population were over 65 years old. The gender make up was 48.9% female and 51.1% male.

The median household income was $38,292, and the per capita income was $17,811. 32.3% of the population were under the poverty line.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,160 people, 1,560 households, and 1,168 families residing in the city. The population density was 865.4 PD/sqmi. There were 1,688 housing units at an average density of 351.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.66% White, 1.71% Black or African American, 1.56% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 0.12% Pacific Islander, 0.75% from other races, and 1.11% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.70% of the population.

There were 1,560 households, out of which 42.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.1% were married couples living together, 14.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.1% were non-families. 22.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.66 and the average family size was 3.11.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 32.1% under the age of 18, 9.6% from 18 to 24, 28.9% from 25 to 44, 18.6% from 45 to 64, and 10.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,906, and the median income for a family was $34,068. Males had a median income of $33,235 versus $17,014 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,227. 11.9% of families and 16.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.7% of those under the age of 18 and 25.4% of those ages 65 or older.

Government
Alma operates under a form of local government where the mayor and city council combine to form the Governing Body. The city council is composed of six council members, with two elected from each of the city's three wards. Ward 1: Sandra Kilpatrick, Larry Blasingame. Ward 2: James McGhee, Eddie Wakefield. Ward 3: Evan Thacker, Gary Perry. Council members serve two-year terms, and elections for all seats are held concurrently. The mayor serves a four-year term. Jerry Martin serves as mayor until his term expires in 2022, when he will be replaced by Mayor-elect Jim Fincher. The city also operates with a city clerk, Khris Miller, and a city attorney, Sean Brister.

Education
Public education for elementary and secondary school students is provided by the Alma School District. The four schools in the district include Alma Primary School, Alma Intermediate School, Alma Middle School and Alma High School.

Spinach Capital of the World
Around 1987, Alma called itself the "Spinach Capital of the World" because the Allen Canning Company based in Alma canned more than half of all the spinach canned in the U.S., about 60 e6lb annually. The town has had various statues of the cartoon character Popeye, because of his connection to canned spinach; the most recent one was erected in 2007. Cast in bronze, it sits atop a fountain holding a can of spinach. It is the centerpiece of Popeye Park. Crystal City Texas is also considered the Spinach Capital of the World.

Annual cultural events
The annual Spinach Festival is hosted at the City Park and Community Center on the third weekend in April. First held in 1986, the festival is sponsored by the Alma Chamber of Commerce and the Alma Advertising & Promotion Commission. The festival brings carnival rides, crafts, food and live music. A spinach eating contest takes place at noon, followed by a spinach drop. A package of spinach is dropped from an Alma Fire Department ladder truck onto a board with entrant's names, with the winner receiving a cash prize.

Water
The City of Alma Public Works Department contains the Water & Sewer Division. This group treats and distributes potable water from Lake Alma to the residents and commercial users of the city while also owning and operating a wastewater collection system.

Wastewater is collected and conveyed to the Alma Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). At the WWTP, wastewater passes through a bar screen, Parshall Flume, lagoon 1 (one completely mixed cell followed by two partially mixed cells), Lagoon 2 (facultative), Lagoon 3 (facultative), and optional chlorine/de-chlorination chambers. The plant has a design capacity of 1.75 e6gal per day, and discharges treated effluent to the Arkansas River in accordance with the city's NPDES permit administrated by the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality.

Notable people

 * Kiley Dean, R&B singer
 * Eli Drinkwitz, University of Missouri football coach
 * Charlene Fite, Republican member of the Arkansas House of Representatives from District 80; formerly resided in Alma
 * Bradley Hathaway, poet and folk musician
 * Billy Hughes, actor
 * Morgan Nick, child abduction/murder victim
 * Parley Pratt, early leader of the Latter Day Saint movement
 * Fay Washington, baseball player

title: Alma, Arkansas


text:
Cedarville, Arkansas

Cedarville is a city in Crawford County, Arkansas, United States. It is part of the Fort Smith, Arkansas-Oklahoma Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 1,410 at the 2020 census.

History
Cedarville was platted in 1879. A post office has been in operation at Cedarville since 1872.

Geography
Cedarville is located in western Crawford County on the southern edge of Ozark National Forest. Arkansas Highway 59 runs through the city, leading north 36 mi towards Lincoln and south 10 mi to Van Buren, the Crawford County seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Cedarville has a total area of 23.3 km2, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,133 people, 406 households, and 328 families residing in the city. The population density was 129.1 PD/sqmi. There were 442 housing units at an average density of 50.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.53% White, 0.18% Black or African American, 2.74% Native American, 0.26% Asian, 0.18% from other races, and 2.12% from two or more races. 0.97% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 407 households, out of which 39.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.0% were married couples living together, 9.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.0% were non-families. 15.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.79 and the average family size was 3.10.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 29.3% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 32.1% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 8.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,952, and the median income for a family was $33,409. Males had a median income of $30,385 versus $16,538 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,346. About 10.7% of families and 15.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.9% of those under age 18 and 19.4% of those age 65 or over. The median gross rent was $750/mo (2011) and estimated rent burden was 19.0%.

Education
Public education for early childhood, elementary and secondary school students is primarily provided by the Cedarville School District, which leads to graduation from Cedarville High School. The school's mascot and athletic emblem is the Pirates with royal blue and gold as the school colors.

Notable person

 * Ruth Whitaker, Arkansas State Senator, lived in Cedarville.

title: Cedarville, Arkansas


text:
Chester, Arkansas

Chester is a town in Crawford County, Arkansas, United States. It is part of the Fort Smith, Arkansas-Oklahoma Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 Census the population was 144.

History
Chester was platted in 1887 when the railroad was extended to that point. A post office called Chester has been in operation since 1883.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.3 km2, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 99 people, 35 households, and 26 families residing in the town. The population density was 76.4 /km2. There were 46 housing units at an average density of 35.5 /km2. The racial makeup of the town was 89.90% White and 10.10% Native American. 2.02% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 35 households, out of which 34.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.6% were married couples living together, 20.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.7% were non-families. 14.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 2.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.83 and the average family size was 3.15.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 31.3% under the age of 18, 8.1% from 18 to 24, 28.3% from 25 to 44, 20.2% from 45 to 64, and 12.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $27,500, and the median income for a family was $31,667. Males had a median income of $26,250 versus $14,583 for females. The per capita income for the town was $11,269. There were 23.1% of families and 38.9% of the population living below the poverty line, including 48.6% of under eighteens and 25.0% of those over 64.

Notable people
Country music singer Royal Wade Kimes is a native of Chester.

Racing driver A. J. Shepherd was born in Chester.

title: Chester, Arkansas


text:
Dyer, Arkansas

Dyer is a city in Crawford County, Arkansas, United States. It is part of the Fort Smith, Arkansas-Oklahoma Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 876 at the 2010 census.

History
Dyer was platted in 1884 by G. E. Dyer soon after the Little Rock and Fort Smith Railroad was extended to that point. The community has the name of the local Dyer family; S. M. Dyer bought the town site in 1870. A post office has been in operation at Dyer since 1885.

Geography
Dyer is located in southeastern Crawford County in the Arkansas River valley. U.S. Route 64 passes through the community, leading west 5 mi to Alma and 13 mi to Van Buren, the county seat, and east 5 mi to Mulberry. Interstate 40 passes through the northern part of Dyer but does not have a direct exit for the city; the nearest access is from Exit 20 in the western part of Mulberry.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Dyer has a total area of 6.8 sqkm, all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 772 people, 277 households, and 211 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 585 people, 230 households, and 163 families residing in the town. The population density was 86.9 /km2. There were 248 housing units at an average density of 36.8 /km2. The racial makeup of the town was 96.24% White, 0.17% Black or African American, 1.20% Native American, 0.85% Asian, and 1.54% from two or more races. 0.17% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 230 households, out of which 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.3% were married couples living together, 5.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.7% were non-families. 23.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the town the population was spread out, with 25.5% under the age of 18, 6.0% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 23.6% from 45 to 64, and 15.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $23,438, and the median income for a family was $28,500. Males had a median income of $28,523 versus $21,500 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,206. About 22.6% of families and 34.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 52.7% of those under age 18 and 32.1% of those age 65 or over.

title: Dyer, Arkansas