National Register Listing

Norman Town Square

Bounded by AR 8 and 8th, Gurdon and 7th Sts., Norman, AR
Local significance of the site:
Landscape Architecture; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1993.

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.

landscape architecture architecture
The Crater of Diamonds State Park, located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is the only diamond-producing site in the world that is open to the public. Visitors to the park can search for diamonds and other gems in the park's 37.5-acre diamond field.
Arkansas random facts
Montgomery County, located in western Arkansas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Caddo and the Osage, who were attracted to the region's abundant natural resources, including fertile lands, rivers, and forests. These tribes left behind various artifacts and mounds that offer insights into their way of life.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to explore and settle in the Montgomery County area. The county itself was officially established in 1842, named after Richard Montgomery, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The town of Mount Ida, which would become the county seat, was founded around this time and became an important trade center for the surrounding communities.

Montgomery County played a significant role in the development of the timber industry in Arkansas. The vast forests attracted lumber companies from the late 1800s into the 1900s, leading to the establishment of numerous sawmills and logging camps in the area. The booming timber industry brought economic prosperity to the county, but also resulted in deforestation and environmental concerns.

Over the years, Montgomery County has faced challenges and undergone changes. The decline of the timber industry in the mid-20th century, shifting economic landscapes, and modernization have all shaped the county's history. Today, Montgomery County is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including Lake Ouachita and the Ouachita National Forest, as well as being a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Montgomery County, Arkansas.

  • 1800: The area now known as Montgomery County is inhabited by various indigenous tribes.
  • 1803: The Louisiana Purchase brings the territory under the control of the United States.
  • 1830: European-American settlers begin establishing settlements in the region.
  • 1836: Montgomery County is officially formed and named after Richard Montgomery, an American Revolutionary War general.
  • 1892: The railroad reaches Montgomery County, spurring economic growth and development.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression affects the area, leading to economic hardships for residents.
  • 1950s: The construction of Lake Ouachita brings tourism and recreational opportunities to the county.
  • 1980s: The timber industry plays a significant role in the local economy.
  • 2000s: Montgomery County experiences population growth, with an increase in residential development and tourism.