Short-Dodson House
a.k.a. Watson House
755 Park Ave., Hot Springs, AR Local significance of the building: Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
About National Register Listings
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.
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Arkansas was one of the first states in the U.S. to enact a statewide prohibition on the sale and consumption of alcohol, passing the law in 1915. Prohibition was repealed in the state in 1933, shortly after the end of the nationwide prohibition era.
About Garland County
Garland County Timeline
Garland County, Arkansas has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Osage, Quapaw, and Cherokee. Evidence of these early inhabitants can be found in the form of burial mounds and artifacts throughout the county.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area. One of the most significant events in Garland County's history was the establishment of Hot Springs as a health and leisure destination. The discovery of thermal springs with healing properties attracted visitors from all over the country, leading to the development of the city and the construction of bathhouses, hotels, and other amenities.
During the Civil War, Garland County experienced its fair share of conflict. Although predominantly pro-Union, many residents were divided in their loyalties. The Battle of Hot Springs, which took place in 1862, saw Union forces successfully repel a Confederate attack and maintain control of the area.
In the years following the war, Garland County continued to grow and evolve. The city of Hot Springs became known for its entertainment and gambling industry, attracting famous figures such as Al Capone and Babe Ruth. Today, the county remains a popular tourist destination, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its historical sites, enjoy natural beauty, and indulge in the healing waters of Hot Springs National Park.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area. One of the most significant events in Garland County's history was the establishment of Hot Springs as a health and leisure destination. The discovery of thermal springs with healing properties attracted visitors from all over the country, leading to the development of the city and the construction of bathhouses, hotels, and other amenities.
During the Civil War, Garland County experienced its fair share of conflict. Although predominantly pro-Union, many residents were divided in their loyalties. The Battle of Hot Springs, which took place in 1862, saw Union forces successfully repel a Confederate attack and maintain control of the area.
In the years following the war, Garland County continued to grow and evolve. The city of Hot Springs became known for its entertainment and gambling industry, attracting famous figures such as Al Capone and Babe Ruth. Today, the county remains a popular tourist destination, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its historical sites, enjoy natural beauty, and indulge in the healing waters of Hot Springs National Park.
Garland County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Garland County, Arkansas.
- 1800 - Native American tribes, such as the Quapaw, inhabit the land that will become Garland County.
- 1807 - The United States acquires the land from the Louisiana Purchase.
- 1832 - The Quapaw Tribe signs a treaty with the US government, ceding their land to the government to make way for European American settlement.
- 1832 - Garland County is established and named after Augustus H. Garland, who served as the attorney general under President Grover Cleveland.
- 1836 - The first permanent settlers arrive in Garland County, primarily from the southern states.
- 1836 - The county's first post office is established in Hot Springs, the county seat.
- 1875 - The Hot Springs National Park is established, becoming the first national reserve in the US.
- 1892 - The first electric streetcar system is installed in Hot Springs, connecting the city's different areas.
- 1913 - The Fordyce Bathhouse opens, becoming one of the most luxurious bathhouses in Hot Springs.
- 1920s - Hot Springs becomes a popular destination for organized crime figures, who open illegal gambling establishments and casinos.
- 1940s - 1950s - The decline of illegal gambling leads to the growth of the tourism industry in Hot Springs, focusing on family-friendly attractions and natural thermal springs.
- 1983 - The Central Avenue Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing the city's historic architecture.
- 2010 - The population of Garland County reaches over 96,000 people, marking significant growth over the years.