Welcome to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas

This Day in Arkansas History

November 11, 1937

Ronald Lee “Dusty” Richards was born in Chicago, Illinois. Richards is the author of numerous western novels and a noted mentor each year to hundreds of beginning writers. Since 2000, he has been a patron contributor of the Arkansas Writers Conference. In 2005, he received the Cowboy Culture Award for the many hours he has volunteered in helping aspiring authors. Many of Richards’s novels are set in Arkansas.

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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.

New to Arkansas?
New to Arkansas?

Our overview page covers everything you would want to know about our beautiful state, including state symbols, demographics, and more!

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