Little River County Courthouse
Main and 2nd Sts., Ashdown, AR Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Arkansas was part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which was the largest land acquisition in U.S. history, and the state was later admitted to the Union as the 25th state on June 15, 1836.
The first European settlers in Little River County were French fur trappers and traders in the early 18th century. They established trading posts along the Little River, which gave the county its name. Little River County was officially created in 1867, after the end of the Civil War. It was carved out of parts of neighboring Sevier County and named after the river that flows through it.
During its early years, agriculture was the primary industry in Little River County. Farmers grew cotton, corn, and other crops, while timber was also an important resource. The county's economy began to diversify in the 20th century with the establishment of brick-making plants, oil and gas production, and manufacturing industries.
Little River County has also been the site of significant historical events. During the Civil War, the Battle of Wallace Creek took place here in 1864. This engagement, fought between Confederate and Union forces, resulted in a victory for the Union troops. The county has also experienced natural disasters, including floods and tornadoes, which have shaped its history.
Today, Little River County continues to be a rural area with a close-knit community. It is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rich cultural heritage. The county's history is celebrated through local museums and historical sites, providing residents and visitors with a deeper understanding of its past.
Little River County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Little River County, Arkansas.
- 1867 - Little River County officially established
- Late 1800s - Settlements established along the Little River and its tributaries
- 1930s - Great Depression impacts the agricultural economy of the county
- 1954 - Construction of Millwood Dam begins on the Little River
- 1966 - Millwood Dam completed, creating Lake Millwood
- 1970s - Timber industry becomes significant economic driver
- 1990s - Decline of timber industry due to environmental regulations
- 1996 - Ashdown becomes the county seat
- 2000s - Diversification of economy with increased focus on tourism and recreation