Poinsett County, Arkansas
Bacon Hotel
Harrisburg Commercial Historic District
Highway A-7, Bridges Historic District
Highway A-7, Ditch No. 6 Bridge
Highway A-7, Tyronza Segment
Hubbard Rice Dryer
Judd Hill Cotton Gin
Lepanto Commercial Historic District
Marked Tree Commercial Historic District
Marked Tree Lock and Siphons
Modern News Building
Poinsett Community Club
Poinsett County Courthouse
Poinsett Lumber and Manufacturing Company Manager's House
Rivervale Inverted Siphons
Tyronza Commercial Historic District
Tyronza Methodist Episcopal Church, South
Tyronza Water Tower
Willie Lamb Post No. 26 American Legion Hut
The county was officially established on February 28, 1838, making it one of the oldest counties in the state. During its early years, the economy of Poinsett County relied heavily on agriculture, particularly cotton farming. The fertile soil and favorable climate proved to be ideal for cultivating cotton, which became a major cash crop in the region.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Poinsett County experienced significant growth and development. With the arrival of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway in the 1880s, the county's transportation infrastructure was greatly improved. This allowed for easier shipment of crops and led to an increase in population and economic activity.
In recent history, Poinsett County has evolved and diversified its economy beyond agriculture. Manufacturing, healthcare, and education are now major industries in the area. The county is also known for its natural beauty, with attractions like Crowley's Ridge State Park offering outdoor recreation opportunities. Today, Poinsett County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a blend of history, agriculture, and modern development.
Brief timeline of the history of Poinsett County, Arkansas:
- 1820: Poinsett County, AR is organized and named after Joel Poinsett.
- 1838: Indian Removal Act leads to the forced migration of Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Choctaw, and Chickasaw, who pass through Poinsett County.
- 1859: The completion of the Memphis and Little Rock Railroad brings economic growth to the county.
- 1861: Poinsett County residents support the Confederacy during the American Civil War.
- 1873: The St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railway expands transportation and trade opportunities in Poinsett County.
- 1881: Lepanto, a town in Poinsett County, is incorporated.
- 1900s: Agriculture becomes the primary economic activity in Poinsett County, with cotton being the main crop.
- 1904: Trumann, another town in Poinsett County, is incorporated.
- 1927: The Great Mississippi Flood affects Poinsett County and surrounding areas, leading to significant damage.
- 1930s: The Great Depression causes severe economic hardship for Poinsett County residents.
- 1942: The construction of the World War II-era Walnut Ridge Army Airfield brings jobs and economic growth to the county.
- 1960s: Poinsett County experiences social and political changes, including the civil rights movement.
- 2000s: Poinsett County continues to be primarily agricultural, with a shift towards diversified crops.
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Poinsett County, Arkansas.