Miller County, Arkansas

Miller County, Arkansas, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Quapaw. In the 1820s, settlers from the United States began to arrive in the region, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources.

The county was officially established on April 1, 1820, and was named after James Miller, the territorial governor of Arkansas at the time. Early settlement was centered around the Red River, which served as an important transportation route for trade and commerce. The county grew rapidly in population as more people migrated to the area, primarily for farming and trading opportunities.

During the Civil War, Miller County was deeply divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers. Several skirmishes and battles took place in the area, with the county experiencing a significant impact from the war. After the war, the economy of Miller County gradually recovered, and the area continued to develop as a center for agriculture, with cotton becoming a major crop.

In the 20th century, Miller County saw continued growth and expansion. The discovery of oil in the region in the early 1920s brought new prosperity to the area, attracting both oil companies and workers. The discovery of sulfur in the 1950s further boosted the local economy. Today, Miller County is a vibrant community with a diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and energy production. The county is also home to several natural attractions, such as Millwood Lake and the Red River, which continue to draw visitors and contribute to the county's rich history and heritage.
Brief timeline of the history of Miller County, Arkansas:

  • 1818: Miller County, AR is established as a county, named after James Miller, the first governor of Arkansas Territory.
  • 1850: The county seat is officially established in the town of Texarkana.
  • 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, Miller County is divided, with a portion supporting the Union and the other supporting the Confederacy.
  • 1874: The Cairo and Fulton Railroad connects Texarkana to Little Rock, increasing the county's economic growth.
  • 1876: The Texarkana National Bank, the first bank in the county, is established.
  • 1884: The Texarkana Daily Gazette begins publication, becoming the first newspaper in Miller County.
  • 1895: The Hotel Grim, an iconic landmark, is built in downtown Texarkana.
  • 1927: The Texarkana Regional Airport is opened, providing air travel services to the county.
  • 1930-1950: The Great Depression and World War II bring economic challenges, but the county experiences some growth due to military bases and defense industries.
  • 1965: The Wright Patman Dam is completed, creating Wright Patman Lake, a popular recreational area.
  • 1990: Miller County's population reaches over 40,000 residents.

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