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This Day in Arkansas History

July 28, 1875

Confederate army major and Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives James Thomas Elliott died at the age of fifty-two. As provost marshal for the Second District of Arkansas, Elliott was responsible for maintaining peaceful relations between the army and the local population, conducting searches and seizures, and keeping order among the men between military engagements. Following the war, he returned to practice law, serving as the circuit judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit of Arkansas, state senator, and judge to the Ninth Judicial District.

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Oaklawn Park

Oaklawn Park Thoroughbred Racetrack, located in Hot Springs (Garland County), officially opened on February 15, 1905, to an enthusiastic crowd of more than 3,000 race fans. The original venue reportedly cost more than $500,000. It was one of the first tracks in the United States to include innovations such steam heat and a glass-enclosed grandstand, shown here in about 1906.

 

Oaklawn Park Thoroughbred Racetrack, located in Hot Springs (Garland County), officially opened on February 15, 1905, to an enthusiastic crowd of more than 3,000 race fans. The original venue reportedly cost more than $500,000. It was one of the first tracks in the United States to include innovations such steam heat and a glass-enclosed grandstand, shown here in about 1906.

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About the Encyclopedia

The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a free, authoritative source of information about the rich history, geography, and culture of Arkansas. It is updated regularly to ensure the people of Arkansas have an accurate and accessible resource to explore our heritage. We invite you to browse our text entries and media galleries to learn more about the people, places, events, legends, and lore of the 25th state. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, quizzes, lesson plans, and more, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

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