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This Day in Arkansas History

April 18, 1863

The home built in 1853 by Judge Jonas Tebbetts, a staunch Union supporter who fled Fayetteville (Washington County) with his family after learning of a plot on his life, was severely damaged during the Civil War Action at Fayetteville. It served as headquarters for both Union and Confederate armies when each was in command of the area. The house is one of the best examples of Greek Revival architecture remaining in the state. Carefully restored by each of the several families who owned it after Tebbetts’s departure, the building is now known as the Headquarters House Museum and serves as headquarters of the Washington County Historical Society.

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Samuel Fordyce

When the Civil War erupted in 1861, railroad agent Samuel Fordyce enlisted in the First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. During his military service, he participated in many actions. Some years after the war, he visited Hot Springs (Garland County), seeking the benefits of the waters for his many wartime injuries. Recognizing the potential financial benefits of the springs, he became a leading force in the development of the area into a major health resort. Today, the bathhouse that serves as the visitor center of Hot Springs National Park bears his name.

 

When the Civil War erupted in 1861, railroad agent Samuel Fordyce enlisted in the First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. During his military service, he participated in many actions. Some years after the war, he visited Hot Springs (Garland County), seeking the benefits of the waters for his many wartime injuries. Recognizing the potential financial benefits of the springs, he became a leading force in the development of the area into a major health resort. Today, the bathhouse that serves as the visitor center of Hot Springs National Park bears his name.

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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, and audio files, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

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