Cotton Plant Water Tower
a.k.a. Site #WO0032
Jct. of N. Main & N. Vine Sts., Cotton Plant, AR Local significance of the structure:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
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.
The county was officially established in 1862, during the midst of the American Civil War, and was named after William E. Woodruff, a prominent newspaper publisher and early settler in the region. During the war, the county was heavily influenced by both Confederate and Union forces, leading to intense battles and strategic control for major transportation routes like the White River.
After the war, the economy of Woodruff County shifted towards agriculture, particularly cotton farming, due to the fertile soil and favorable climate. The county experienced a rapid growth in population as more and more farmers settled in the area to take advantage of the cotton boom. However, the agriculture-based economy also faced challenges, such as floods, insect infestations, and the Great Depression. Despite these obstacles, the community remained resilient and adapted by diversifying crops and embracing new farming techniques.
In the 20th century, Woodruff County saw further developments in education, infrastructure, and industry. The introduction of the railroads, improved roads, and public utilities led to increased connectivity and improved quality of life for its residents. Today, Woodruff County continues to be predominantly rural, with agriculture continuing to play a significant role in the local economy. The county also boasts natural attractions to visitors, such as the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge, which showcases the region's unique and diverse wildlife and habitats.
Woodruff County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Woodruff County, Arkansas.
- 1862 - Woodruff County was established by the Arkansas General Assembly.
- 1870 - The county seat was established in Augusta.
- 1872 - The railroad arrived in the county, leading to increased economic growth.
- 1912 - The switch from steamboats to railroad transportation significantly impacted the county's economy.
- 1930s - The Great Depression caused economic struggles for Woodruff County.
- 1942 - The Augusta State School for Girls was established in the county.
- 1960s - Agriculture continued to be a major industry, primarily focusing on cotton and soybeans.
- 2000s - Crop diversification and the growth of poultry farming became prominent in the county.