Marsh, Wesley, House
a.k.a. Resource #WH0185
Jct. of AR 16 and AR 305, Letona, AR Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
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.
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 Prohibition was repealed in the state in 1933, shortly after the end of the nationwide prohibition era.
In the early 19th century, settlers began to pour into the region, attracted by the fertile soil and ample hunting opportunities. The first town to be established in White County was Searcy, which became the county seat in 1837. The town quickly grew, thanks to the construction of the Southwest Trail, a major trade route that ran through the area.
During the Civil War, White County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents siding with the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. The Battle of Whitney's Lane, fought in July 1864, was a significant event in the county's history, as Union troops defeated Confederate forces near West Point.
In the years following the war, agriculture became the backbone of White County's economy. Cotton, corn, and wheat were among the main crops grown in the area, and a number of gristmills and cotton gins were established to support the agricultural industry. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted economic development, allowing for easier transportation of goods and opening up new markets for farmers.
Today, White County continues to be an important agricultural region, known for its production of soybeans, rice, and poultry. In addition to its agricultural heritage, the county is also home to several industries, including manufacturing and healthcare. With its rich history and thriving economy, White County remains a vibrant community in the heart of Arkansas.
White County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of White County, Arkansas.
- 1809: White County is created on October 23, 1809, as part of the Arkansas Territory.
- 1836: Searcy becomes the county seat of White County.
- 1861-1865: White County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
- 1871: The city of Beebe is incorporated.
- 1892: The city of Bald Knob is incorporated.
- 1921: The Harding College (now known as Harding University) is established in Searcy.
- 1930s: The White County Cooperative Extension Service is established.
- 1940: Bald Knob and Bradford railroads merge, creating the Illinois Central Gulf Railroad Company.
- 1996: The White County Historical Society is formed to preserve and promote the county's history.
- 2008: The city of Searcy passes an ordinance banning discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.