Pyatt School Building
a.k.a. MR0021
Co. Rd. 12, Pyatt, AR Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
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 has a rich Native American history, with numerous tribes including the Caddo, Osage, and Quapaw living in the region for thousands of years before European settlement. The Trail of Tears, which was the forced relocation of Native American tribes from the southeastern United States to Oklahoma, also passed through Arkansas.
During the early years, Marion County served as a temporary home for Native American tribes who were forcibly removed from their ancestral lands. This period of forced relocation, known as the Trail of Tears, impacted both the Native American population and the future development of the county. The arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century led to the establishment of small communities and the start of agricultural practices.
In the late 1800s, the discovery of lead and zinc deposits in the region sparked a mining boom in Marion County. Towns such as Zinc, Rush, and Kelley's Ferry flourished as workers flocked to the area in search of economic opportunities. However, the mining industry declined by the early 20th century, leading to a period of economic hardship for the county.
In recent decades, Marion County has seen a shift towards a more tourism-based economy. The county's natural beauty, including the stunning Buffalo National River and Bull Shoals Lake, has attracted visitors from across the country. Outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and canoeing have become popular attractions, leading to the development of recreational facilities and services. Today, Marion County continues to honor its history while embracing its natural resources and welcoming tourists to explore its scenic landscapes.
Marion County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Marion County, Arkansas.
- 1808 - Marion County was established by the Arkansas Territorial Legislature, named after Revolutionary War general Francis Marion.
- 1830s - The area saw an influx of settlers, mostly from Tennessee and Kentucky.
- 1861-1865 - Marion County, like the rest of Arkansas, was heavily affected by the Civil War.
- Early 1900s - The railroad reached Marion County, aiding its economic development.
- 1940 - Bull Shoals Dam was completed, creating Bull Shoals Lake which became a popular tourist attraction.
- 1960s - The construction of the White River Dam significantly impacted the county, resulting in the formation of Bull Shoals-White River State Park.
- 1973 - Buffalo National River, the first national river in the United States, was established, located partly in Marion County.
- Today - Marion County is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and historic attractions.