National Register Listing

McKennon, Capt. Archibald S., House

a.k.a. Basham House

215 N. Central, Clarksville, AR
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

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.

politics government architecture houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Arkansas.
The Clinton Presidential Library is located in Little Rock, Arkansas, and is dedicated to the life and legacy of former President Bill Clinton, who was the 42nd President of the United States. The library contains more than 2 million photographs, documents, and artifacts from Clinton's presidency.
Arkansas random facts
Johnson County, Arkansas has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Quapaw. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, primarily of Scots-Irish and German descent. The county itself was officially established in 1833.

One significant event that shaped the history of Johnson County was the Civil War. The county was deeply divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers, leading to conflicts and skirmishes throughout the region. The Battle of Clarksville in 1864 saw Union troops successfully defend the city against Confederate raiders. The aftermath of the war brought economic challenges to the county, with the loss of infrastructure and the need for reconstruction.

In the late 19th century, Johnson County experienced growth and development with the arrival of the railroad. The expansion of the railroad network brought economic opportunities, allowing for the transportation of goods and improving access to markets. As a result, towns such as Clarksville and Coal Hill flourished as trading centers, attracting industries and businesses to the area.

Throughout the 20th century, Johnson County continued to evolve. Agriculture remained a central part of the economy, with crops such as cotton, soybeans, and poultry farming playing a crucial role. The mid-20th century also saw the construction of Interstate 40, further connecting Johnson County to the rest of the state and enabling greater travel and commerce.

Today, Johnson County is a thriving community with a diverse economy. It remains rooted in agricultural traditions while embracing modern industries and technologies. With its scenic landscapes, historical sites, and strong community spirit, Johnson County continues to be a place of opportunity and growth.

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

  • 1828: Johnson County is established by the Arkansas territorial legislature.
  • 1830: The first post office in the county is established in Clarksville.
  • 1861-1865: Johnson County residents serve in the American Civil War.
  • 1873: The first railroad is completed in the county, connecting Clarksville to Little Rock.
  • 1903: The first hydroelectric plant is built near Clarksville.
  • 1923: University of the Ozarks is founded in Clarksville.
  • 1940-1945: Johnson County residents contribute to the war effort during World War II.
  • 1954: The Lake Dardanelle Dam is completed, providing flood control and recreational opportunities.
  • 1960s-1980s: Johnson County experiences population growth and economic development.
  • 1996: The Johnson County Historical Society is established in Clarksville.
  • 2009: A tornado strikes parts of Johnson County, causing significant damage.