Prairie County, Arkansas

Prairie County, Arkansas is located in the eastern part of the state and is rich in history. The area was initially home to indigenous tribes, including the Quapaw and Osage, who relied on the fertile land for farming and hunting. With the arrival of European settlers in the late 18th century, the region's importance as an agricultural center grew.

In the early 19th century, Prairie County became a hub for plantation agriculture, particularly cotton. Slavery played a significant role in the county's economy, with many large plantations employing enslaved laborers. The county's proximity to the White River allowed for the easy transportation of cotton to markets, further fueling the growth of the region's plantation system.

During the American Civil War, Prairie County witnessed significant battles and military actions. Union forces targeted the area due to its strategic location along major river routes. The Battle of Fitzhugh's Woods in 1864 was one such engagement that resulted in heavy casualties. The war deeply impacted the county, causing economic devastation and the loss of many lives.

Following the Civil War, Prairie County experienced a period of rebuilding and diversification. The construction of railroads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries opened up new opportunities for trade and commerce. The county's economy shifted from cotton to diversified farming, including rice, soybeans, and livestock. Today, Prairie County remains an important agricultural region, with a proud history rooted in its agricultural heritage.
Brief timeline of the history of Prairie County, Arkansas:

  • 1813 - Prairie County established as a county in Arkansas Territory.
  • 1820 - Main settlement named DeValls Bluff, after a French trader who established a trading post.
  • 1861-1865 - Prairie County heavily involved in the American Civil War.
  • 1868 - County seat moved from Brownsville to DeValls Bluff.
  • 1881 - Completion of the Texas and St. Louis Railway linking DeValls Bluff to other parts of the state.
  • 1902 - Opening of the DeValls Bluff-Marianna Bridge over the White River, improving transportation.
  • 1965 - DeValls Bluff-Marianna Bridge collapsed, leading to the construction of a new bridge.
  • 1970s - Decline in population due to changes in agriculture and the decline of railroad transportation.
  • Present - Prairie County continues to be a predominantly rural area with agriculture as its primary industry.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Prairie County, Arkansas.