For twenty-one years, Judge Isaac C. Parker presided over the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. Parker may be the most recognized name associated with the Fort Smith court, but there were many others who worked for the federal court, including the deputy marshals, jailers, court clerks, and bailiffs. On the other side of the law were the men and women who were arrested in Indian Territory and charged with crimes ranging from theft to murder.
Federal Court at Fort Smith Information on federal court's jurisdiction and deputy marshals. more...
Law Enforcement at Fort Smith Unpublished manuscript by former NPS Historian Edwin C. Bearss on federal court period. more...
Interactive Panoramic Photo of Deputy Marshals Examine in detail a panoramic photograph of deputy marhals through an interactive program more...
Judge Parker's Biography link to story of Parker's life more...
Did You Know?
Fort Smith was established on Christmas Day, 1817. Approximately 70 Rifle Regiment soldiers arrived by keelboat after a long journey on the Arkansas River.