Fort Smith NHS

Foundation of blockhouse at site of first Fort Smith overlooking Arkansas River

The first Fort Smith was established at the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers in 1817 at a place called Belle Point. It was the highest navigable point on the Arkansas River at the time the site was chosen by the U.S. Army. The army abandoned the fort in 1824 and while used intermittently by transient troops it was never maintained. Its exact location remained unknown until 1963, when archeologists uncovered the foundations visitors can see today.

Fort Smith NHS

Commissary Building

In 1838 a second fort was begun, this one built at a higher elevation away from the river. Major buildings included two officer's quarters, a barracks, commissary, and quartermaster storehouse, all enclosed by a stone wall. Today visitors can see the Commissary Storehouse, the oldest building still standing in Fort Smith, and the former military barracks which was converted into the federal courthouse in 1872.

An outline of stones placed at ground level marks the walls original location. Locations of other second fort buildings are designated by wayside panels and marked floor plans.

Fort Smith NHS

Federal Courthouse

When the military barracks was used as a courthouse the basement was turned into a jail. In 1888 a new jail wing was constructed. The federal courthouse, which originally was a 1 1/2 story structure with full porches, was changed to its present appearance in 1890.

A reproduction of the 1886 gallows stands on its original site and is a reminder of the chaotic social conditions that existed in Indian Territory during Judge Parker's time.