Date:
24 Mar 1873
Location:
Baxter County, Arkansas
Surnames/tags:
baxter_county_arkansas Arkansas us_history
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Welcome to the Baxter County, Arkansas Project!
Baxter County is a county located in the north-central region of the state of Arkansas in the United States. It was named after Elisha Baxter, who served as the tenth governor of Arkansas. The county was formed on March 24, 1873, from parts of Fulton, Izard, Marion, and Searcy counties.
Prior to the arrival of European settlers, the area was home to various Native American tribes, including the Osage, Cherokee, and Shawnee. In the early 19th century, European explorers and trappers began to arrive in the area, and by the mid-1800s, several settlements had been established.
During the Civil War, the area that would later become Baxter County was a site of conflict between Union and Confederate forces. In 1862, Union troops led by General Samuel Ryan Curtis defeated a Confederate force at the Battle of Pea Ridge, which took place near the county's northern border.
After the war, Baxter County continued to grow and develop, with agriculture and timber being the main industries. In the early 20th century, the construction of the White River Dam and the creation of Bull Shoals Lake provided a boost to the local economy, as the lake became a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Today, Baxter County is home to several communities, including the county seat of Mountain Home, as well as several smaller towns and unincorporated areas. The county is known for its natural beauty, with numerous parks, lakes, and forests providing opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Maps and Boundaries
Communities
Cities
Towns
- Big Flat
Census Designated Places
Unincorporated communities
Townships:
Historical Landmarks
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| Baxter County Courthouse
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- Baxter County Courthouse - The historic Baxter County Courthouse in Mountain Home, Arkansas is a landmark building completed in 1941 with funding from the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Designed by architect T. Ewing Shelton of Fayetteville, it is an excellent example of Art Deco architecture, with its sleek lines and streamlined forms. Its minimalist design and use of local materials in its construction are features common to many Depression-era projects.
- The three story courthouse is located 14 miles from the oldest courthouse in Arkansas, the log house of Major Wolfe, built in 1809 and still standing at the town of Norfolk.
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| Big Flat School Gymnasium
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- Big Flat School Gymansium - The historic Big Flat School Gymnasium is a single-story building located in the small town of Big Flat, Arkansas. It was built between 1938 and 1941 as a project of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), a federal agency created during the Great Depression to provide employment and economic relief.
- The gymnasium was constructed using native stone, which was a common building material in the area at the time. It features a gabled roof and a large, open space for basketball games and other events. The interior of the building also includes a stage and a dressing room.
- The Big Flat School Gymnasium played an important role in the community as a venue for school events and social gatherings. It was also used as a shelter during severe weather, such as tornadoes.
- Today, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is maintained by the Big Flat Historical Society. It serves as a community center and is available for public events and rentals. The gymnasium stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the WPA and the enduring spirit of the community it served.
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| Buford School Building
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- Buford School Building - The historic Buford School Building is located on Arkansas Highway 126 in the small community of Buford, Arkansas. It is a single-story Plain Traditional structure with Craftsman touches, and it was built in 1936 with funding from the Works Progress Administration (WPA), a New Deal agency created to provide employment during the Great Depression.
- The building served as a school for students in grades 1-12 until the early 1960s when it was consolidated with another school district. After its use as a school ended, the building was repurposed for community events and meetings.
- The Buford School Building features a simple yet elegant design with distinct Craftsman-style elements such as exposed rafters, decorative brackets, and a front porch with tapered columns. The building is constructed of local stone and features a gabled roof with a central cupola.
- In 1996, the Buford School Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the building is still used for community events, including reunions, potluck dinners, and church services.
- The Buford School Building stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of rural communities during the Great Depression and continues to serve as an important gathering place for the people of Buford and the surrounding area.
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| Case-Shiras-Dearmore House
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- Case-Shiras-Dearmore House - The historic Case-Shiras-Dearmore House is located in Mountain Home, Arkansas. It is a two-and-a-half-story plain traditional wood-frame structure built in the 1870s by Dr. J. H. Case, but its most notable resident was Tom Shiras.
- Tom Shiras was a prominent lawyer and politician who served as a judge and state representative in Arkansas during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He lived in the Case-Shiras-Dearmore House with his wife and family for many years.
- The house itself features a simple yet elegant design with a gabled roof, a front porch with tapered columns, and decorative trim. The interior of the house has been carefully restored to preserve many of its original features, including hardwood floors, ornate moldings, and hand-carved banisters.
- In addition to its historical significance, the Case-Shiras-Dearmore House is also notable for its association with the arts. The house has served as a venue for musical performances and art exhibitions, and it has been featured in several films and television shows.
- Today, the Case-Shiras-Dearmore House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is open to the public for tours. It stands as a testament to the rich history and culture of the Ozarks region of Arkansas and the many remarkable individuals who have called it home over the years.
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| Casey House
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- Casey House - The historic Casey House, located on the Baxter County Fairgrounds in Mountain Home, Arkansas, is a well-preserved example of a dog trot house. This type of house was popular in the southern United States during the 19th century and typically featured a central open-air breezeway, or "dog trot," that separated two separate living quarters.
- The Casey House was built in 1858 by Colonel William Casey, early settler in Mountain Home and its first representative in the Arkansas legislature.
- The house is a single story structure with a gabled roof and a central dog trot. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, but the house was destroyed during a F3 tornado on November 18, 1985.
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| Cold Water School
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- old_Water_School|Cold Water School - The historic Cold Water School building is located at 2422 Baxter County Road 73, in the White River watershed northeast of Big Flat, Arkansas, on a privately owned inholding within the Ozark National Forest. It is a well-preserved example of a one-room schoolhouse typical in rural Arkansas during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
- The Cold Water School, located at McPearson, in Baxter County, was one of the earliest schools in Baxter County. The first building was constructed in the late 1880s. and the second building (the one preserved today) between 1920 and 1926. The one room school house was used as a school, church and community gathering center. The village or town, once surrounded by McPearson, is home to roughly 100 residents.
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| Cotter Bridge
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- Cotter Bridge - The historic Cotter Bridge, also known as the R.M. Ruthven Bridge and the White River Concrete Arch Bridge, is a significant landmark in Baxter County, Arkansas. It carries U.S. Route 62 Business across the White River west of the city of Cotter and is recognized for its innovative design and construction.
- The bridge was built in 1930 by the Marsh Engineering Company of Des Moines, Iowa, and is the only bridge in Arkansas that was constructed by this company. The bridge was designed by J.A.L. Waddell, a renowned bridge engineer who was known for his use of concrete arches in bridge construction. The Cotter Bridge is one of only a few surviving examples of Waddell's work in the United States.
- The bridge is a concrete arch structure that spans 540 feet across the White River. It has a total length of 750 feet and a width of 20 feet. The design of the bridge is notable for its use of two unequal arches that support the roadway. The main arch spans 310 feet, while the smaller arch spans 200 feet. The arches are constructed of reinforced concrete and are supported by concrete piers that are anchored to bedrock.
- The Cotter Bridge was an important link in the transportation network of northern Arkansas, providing a crucial connection between the towns of Cotter and Gassville. The bridge was in use for many years until it was closed to vehicle traffic in 2017 due to structural concerns. Today, the bridge is still standing and is open to pedestrian traffic, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to admire its architectural and engineering features.
- The Cotter Bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a testament to the skill and creativity of the engineers and construction workers who built it nearly a century ago. It is an important reminder of the vital role that transportation infrastructure played in the development of rural communities in Arkansas and throughout the United States.
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| The Old Cotter High School Gym
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- Cotter High School - The historic Old Cotter High School Gymnasium, located at 412 Powell Street in Cotter, Arkansas, is a significant example of a public works project that was funded by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the Great Depression. Built between 1936 and 1938, the gymnasium was part of a larger effort by the WPA to improve the infrastructure and facilities of schools and other public institutions across the United States.
- The gymnasium is a two-story, rectangular brick building with a gable roof and large windows on both sides. It features a large auditorium-style gymnasium on the first floor, complete with a stage, a basketball court, and bleachers for spectators. The second floor of the building originally contained classrooms and offices for the high school, which was located adjacent to the gymnasium.
- The Old Cotter High School Gymnasium is significant for its historical and architectural value. It is one of the few remaining examples of WPA-funded public works projects in the state of Arkansas and is a testament to the important role that government-funded programs played in providing jobs and improving public infrastructure during the Great Depression.
- Today, the building is no longer used as a high school, but it remains an important landmark in the community. The gymnasium is now used as a community center and event space, hosting a variety of activities such as weddings, dances, and sporting events. The building is also used as a polling place during elections and has been the site of numerous community gatherings and celebrations.
- The Old Cotter High School Gymnasium is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a significant reminder of the important role that public works projects played in the development of Arkansas and the United States as a whole.
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| Cotter Water Tower
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- Cotter Water Tower - The historic Cotter water tower is an elevated steel water tower located in Cotter, Arkansas. It was constructed in 1935 by the Pittsburgh-Des Moines Steel Company as part of the development of the local water supply system by the Public Works Administration (PWA). The tower is an iconic landmark in the town and has played an important role in providing water to the community for nearly a century.
- The Cotter water tower is a 100-foot-tall steel structure with a capacity of 100,000 gallons of water. It features a cylindrical water tank that is supported by a series of steel legs and crossbeams. The tower is located on a hilltop overlooking the town, and its height allows it to provide water pressure to the surrounding area.
- The tower was constructed during the Great Depression as part of a larger effort by the PWA to improve public infrastructure across the United States. The project provided much-needed jobs for local workers and helped to modernize the town's water supply system.
- Today, the Cotter water tower remains an important part of the town's history and infrastructure. It continues to provide water to the community and serves as a reminder of the important role that public works projects played in the development of rural communities in Arkansas and throughout the United States.
- The Cotter water tower is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a beloved landmark in the town. It is an important reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who built and maintained the town's infrastructure over the years, and it serves as a symbol of the community's enduring strength and character.
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- Davis House - The historic Davis House is a one-and-a-half story frame house located at the corner of Wolf Street and Arkansas Highway 5 in Norfork, Arkansas. The house is an excellent example of the vernacular Plain Traditional style of architecture, characterized by a simple and functional design that emphasizes practicality and functionality over ornamental details.
- The Davis House was built in 1928 for Charley Blevins, a local farmer and businessman. The house was constructed using locally sourced materials and traditional building techniques, such as wood framing and stucco foundation. The house features a hip roof with gabled dormers, a large front porch with square columns, and a central front entrance with sidelights and a transom window.
- In the 1940s, the house was purchased by the Davis family, who lived there for several decades. During their ownership, the house underwent some modifications, including the addition of a rear porch and the conversion of the front porch into a sunroom.
- Today, the Davis House is a well-preserved example of Plain Traditional architecture in Norfork, Arkansas. It is a significant landmark in the community and a reminder of the town's rich history and cultural heritage. The house has been recognized for its historical and architectural significance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- The Davis House serves as an important reminder of the importance of preserving historic structures and cultural heritage in small communities like Norfork. It is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who built and maintained these structures over the years and a reminder of the important role that these buildings play in shaping the character and identity of local communities.
- Fort Smith to Jackson Road-Talbert's Ferry Segments - The Fort Smith to Jackson Road-Talbert's Ferry Segments are a historic section of road located in central western Baxter County, Arkansas. The road was built in the 1830s and connected the cities of Fort Smith and Jackson County. It was one of the first roads to be built through north central Arkansas and played an important role in the development and settlement of the region.
- The surviving segments of the road, located near a crossing of the White River, are an important part of the region's history and have been recognized for their historical significance. They are documented to have been used by parties removing Native Americans during the Trail of Tears in the 1830s, when thousands of Native Americans were forcibly relocated from their ancestral homelands to Indian Territory in present-day Oklahoma.
- The road was originally constructed as a wagon road, and it played a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods and people between Fort Smith and Jackson County. The road passed through a number of small towns and settlements, including Talbert's Ferry, which was located near the crossing of the White River. The ferry was an important crossing point for travelers and served as a hub for commerce and trade in the region.
- Today, the Fort Smith to Jackson Road-Talbert's Ferry Segments are an important part of Arkansas's cultural heritage and serve as a reminder of the region's rich history and cultural diversity. The surviving segments of the road are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who built and maintained them over the years, and they continue to play an important role in shaping the character and identity of the local community. The road is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is open to the public for viewing and exploration.
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| Horace Mann School Historic District
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- Horace Mann School Historic District - The historic Horace Mann School District of Norfork, Arkansas, is a complex of four Depression-era school buildings located near the center of the community. The district was established in the early 20th century and served as the primary educational institution for the town and surrounding area until the 1970s.
- The main school building, which was built with Works Progress Administration (WPA) funding in 1936, is a single-story Craftsman-style structure that features a symmetrical facade, a low-pitched roof, and wide eaves with exposed rafter tails. The building includes multiple classrooms, administrative offices, and a library.
- In 1937, two additional buildings were constructed on the school grounds with funding from the National Youth Administration (NYA). These buildings included a home economics building and a vocational educational building, both of which are also single-story Craftsman-style structures that feature similar design elements as the main school building.
- The auditorium/gymnasium was built in 1940 with WPA funds and features a partially exposed basement, which gives the building a larger appearance. The building includes a large auditorium space that was used for school assemblies and community events, as well as a gymnasium that was used for athletic activities.
- The Horace Mann School District is a significant example of the educational architecture that was built during the Great Depression in Arkansas and throughout the United States. The buildings were constructed as part of a larger effort to provide employment and stimulate economic growth during a time of widespread unemployment and economic hardship.
- Today, the Horace Mann School District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a reminder of the important role that education has played in the development of Norfork and the surrounding area. The buildings are still used for community events and activities, and they continue to be a source of pride for local residents.
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| Sid Hutcheson Building
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- Sid Hutcheson Building - The historic Sid Hutcheson Building is a commercial building located at 13912 Arkansas Highway 5 in the center of Norfork, Arkansas. The building was constructed in 1910 and is a two-story structure built out of local stone and concrete. It is a significant example of vernacular architecture in the area.
- When the building was completed, it was divided into three storefronts. The first storefront was a grocery store, the second was a Ford dealership, and the third was a hotel. The building has undergone several renovations and has been used for various commercial purposes over the years.
- One of the unique features of the building is the use of local stone in its construction. The use of local materials was common in the area at the time, and it gives the building a distinctive character. The building also features a decorative cornice and large display windows, which were popular features in early 20th-century commercial architecture.
- The Sid Hutcheson Building is a reminder of the importance of commercial buildings in the development of Norfork and the surrounding area. It is an excellent example of early 20th-century commercial architecture and is significant for its use of local materials and its contribution to the community's economic growth.
- Today, the building is still in use and is home to several businesses. It has been well-preserved over the years and continues to be an important part of the community's architectural heritage. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a reminder of Norfork's rich history and culture.
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| Mountain Home Commercial Historic District
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- Mountain Home Commercial Historic District - The historic Mountain Home Commercial District encompasses the downtown area of Mountain Home, Arkansas. The district includes a variety of commercial buildings that reflect the city's history and development over the years.
- The commercial district was established in the early 20th century and has undergone several changes over time. Many of the buildings in the district were constructed during the 1920s and 1930s, reflecting the period of growth and development in Mountain Home. The architecture of the district includes a variety of styles, including Art Deco, Classical Revival, and Craftsman.
- Some of the notable buildings in the district include the Baxter County Courthouse, which was built in 1941 and features Art Deco details, the R.M. Ruthven Bridge, a historic bridge built in 1930 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the First Christian Church, a Classical Revival-style building constructed in 1926.
- Other buildings in the district include banks, theaters, hotels, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The commercial district continues to be an important part of the city's economy and serves as a reminder of Mountain Home's history and growth over time.
- In recognition of its architectural and historical significance, the Mountain Home Commercial District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004. The district continues to be an important part of the city's identity and serves as a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
- Old Joe - Old Joe is a prehistoric rock art panel located near Norfork in Baxter County, Arkansas. The panel features two distinct shapes that were painted with a red pigment, likely using a mixture of hematite and water.
- The shapes on the panel are difficult to interpret, as they do not resemble any known symbols or figures from other prehistoric rock art sites in the region. However, they are believed to be of Native American origin and date back to the Late Prehistoric period, which spanned from approximately 900 AD to the arrival of European explorers in the 16th century.
- The name "Old Joe" is derived from the nearby Old Joe Creek, which flows into the White River near the rock art panel. The site is located on private property, but it is visible from the road and can be accessed with permission from the landowner.
- Old Joe is one of several prehistoric rock art sites in the region, which includes Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. The rock art provides important insights into the cultural practices and beliefs of prehistoric peoples in the area and serves as an important reminder of the region's rich and diverse history.
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| Rollins Hospital
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- Rollins Hospital - The historic Rollins Hospital is a former hospital building located at 107 East Main Street in Gassville, Arkansas. Built in 1923, the building is a single-story structure constructed of concrete blocks that were made locally to resemble native stone.
- Dr. William James Rollins established the hospital, the first physician in Baxter County, who saw the need for a local hospital to serve the growing population. It functioned as a hospital until 1954, when its last doctor died. It was owned by the Baxter County Historical Society and used as a museum devoted to Dr. Rollins and county history.
- It closed in 2008 due to damage from a tornado, and has since been sold to a private individual. The Rollins Hospital is significant for its association with Dr. Rollins, who was a prominent figure in the early development of healthcare in Baxter County. It is also an excellent example of early 20th century hospital architecture, with its simple design and use of locally-sourced building materials.
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| Wolf Cemetery
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- Wolf Cemetery - The historic Wolf Cemetery is a small rural cemetery located in Baxter County, Arkansas. It is situated near the end of County Road 68, just south of its crossing of the railroad tracks and north of the White River.
- The cemetery is believed to have been established in the mid-19th century and contains the graves of several early settlers and their descendants. Many of the grave markers are simple and unadorned, reflecting the rural and agricultural nature of the area.
- One notable burial in the Wolf Cemetery is that of Robert Wolf, who was one of the early settlers in the area and gave the cemetery its name. Wolf was a prominent farmer and businessman who established a ferry across the White River and a general store in the community. He is considered one of the founding figures of the local community.
- The Wolf Cemetery is a reminder of the early settlement and agricultural history of Baxter County, and serves as a link to the past for local residents and visitors. Although the cemetery is small and unassuming, it is an important part of the community's heritage and is recognized as a historic site.
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- Jacob Wolf House - The historic Jacob Wolf House is a significant landmark located on Arkansas Highway 5 in Norfork, Arkansas. It is a log structure that was built in 1825 by Jacob Wolf, who was the first documented white settler in the area. The house is known for its unique architectural style, which is a "saddlebag" design that features a two-story dog trot with the second floor built over the open breezeway.
- The Wolf House was built out of hand-hewn logs and has a steep gable roof. The walls of the house are made from stacked logs, and the roof is covered with wooden shingles. The dog trot, which is a central breezeway that separates the two main living spaces, allowed for ventilation and helped to keep the house cool during the hot summer months.
- The Wolf House has been restored and is now open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the historic structure and learn about the early pioneer days in the area. The museum also has exhibits on the local history of Norfork and Baxter County, including artifacts from Native American cultures, the Civil War, and the early settlers of the area. The Jacob Wolf House is a valuable piece of Arkansas history and a must-see for anyone interested in the state's pioneer heritage.
Military and War
Civil War
Baxter County, Arkansas was not officially created until March 1873, eight years after the end of the Civil War. However, the area that is now Baxter County was still settled and actively involved in the war.
The White River and its tributaries in the region served as important transportation routes for Confederate forces to move troops and supplies throughout northern Arkansas. Union forces recognized the importance of controlling these waterways, and engaged in several skirmishes and battles in the area.
In August 1862, Union forces under the command of Colonel Marcus LaRue Harrison clashed with Confederate troops near Calico Rock, resulting in a Union victory. Later that year, Confederate forces under General Thomas Hindman attacked Union troops at the Battle of Prairie Grove, about 70 miles west of Baxter County, resulting in a Union victory.
In 1863, Union forces occupied Batesville, which is located approximately 40 miles southeast of what is now Baxter County. This effectively cut off Confederate supply lines to the area, and limited their ability to launch attacks.
While there were no major battles fought in Baxter County itself, the area was still impacted by the war. Many residents of the area either joined Confederate forces (14th Arkansas Infantry) or were sympathetic to the Confederate cause, and some of the earliest settlements in the area were established by Confederate veterans following the war.
World War II
USS Baxter (APA-94) was a Bayfield-class attack transport ship of the United States Navy that was named after Baxter County, Arkansas. The ship was built by the Western Pipe and Steel Company in San Francisco, California, and was launched in December 1944. The Baxter served in the Pacific during World War II and participated in several major campaigns, including the invasion of Okinawa and the occupation of Japan.
After the war, the Baxter was used to repatriate American soldiers from the Pacific and was decommissioned in 1946. The ship was then transferred to the Military Sea Transportation Service and was used as a transport ship until it was scrapped in 1974. The USS Baxter received four battle stars for its service during World War II.
National Protected Areas
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| Buffalo National River
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- Buffalo National River - Buffalo National River is a protected area located in Baxter County, Arkansas. It was established as a national river in 1972, making it the first national river to be designated in the United States. The river itself stretches for 135 miles and runs through the Ozark Mountains, making it one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states.
- The Buffalo River is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, scenic bluffs, and abundant wildlife. The river is home to over 300 species of fish, including smallmouth bass, Ozark bass, and longnose gar. It is also home to a variety of other wildlife, such as beavers, otters, bald eagles, and black bears.
- In addition to its natural beauty, the Buffalo River is also a popular destination for recreational activities. Visitors can go canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and camping in the park. There are also several designated swimming areas along the river.
- The park is divided into three sections: the upper river, the middle river, and the lower river. Each section has its own unique features and recreational opportunities. The upper river is known for its towering bluffs and is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking. The middle river is home to several hiking trails and campgrounds. The lower river is known for its wide, slow-moving waters and is popular for fishing and swimming.
- Overall, the Buffalo National River is a beautiful and unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It offers a wide range of recreational opportunities and is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Arkansas.
- Ozark–St. Francis National Forest - The Ozark National Forest is a protected area located in northern Arkansas. It covers over 1.2 million acres and spans across 16 counties, including Baxter County. The forest is known for its rugged terrain, deep valleys, and stunning vistas. It is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including black bears, elk, and the Ozark big-eared bat.
- The forest is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. It has over 700 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging multi-day backpacking trips. The forest also has over 23 campgrounds, many of which are located near scenic rivers, streams, and waterfalls.
- In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, the Ozark National Forest is also rich in history and culture. The forest is home to several historic sites, including the Blanchard Springs Caverns, a network of underground caves and waterfalls, and the Ozark Folk Center State Park, which celebrates the traditions and culture of the Ozark people.
- Overall, the Ozark National Forest is a beautiful and diverse destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers. Its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting northern Arkansas.
- Bull Shoals-White River State Park - Bull Shoals-White River State Park is a beautiful park located in Baxter County, Arkansas. It is situated along the shores of Bull Shoals Lake and the White River, offering visitors a variety of recreational opportunities.
- The park covers over 700 acres and features a variety of facilities for camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and more. It has three campgrounds, including a waterfront campground with sites overlooking Bull Shoals Lake. There are also several hiking trails in the park, ranging from short nature walks to longer, more challenging hikes. The park also has a visitor center, picnic areas, and a boat launch ramp.
- Bull Shoals Lake is a popular destination for boating and fishing, with over 45,000 acres of water to explore. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, catfish, and walleye. The White River is also a popular destination for trout fishing, with a variety of trout species available in its clear, cold waters.
- In addition to its recreational opportunities, Bull Shoals-White River State Park is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The park is home to several scenic overlooks, offering breathtaking views of the lake and river. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and bald eagles.
- Overall, Bull Shoals-White River State Park is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of recreational activities in a beautiful natural setting. Whether you're looking to camp, fish, hike, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, this park is definitely worth a visit.
- Norfork Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA) - The Norfork Lake Wildlife Management Area is a protected area located in Baxter County, Arkansas. It is situated along the shores of Norfork Lake, a 22,000-acre reservoir that was created by the Norfork Dam on the North Fork River.
- The wildlife management area covers over 13,000 acres and is managed by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. It is primarily forested, with a variety of hardwood and pine trees. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, black bear, bobcat, and various species of small game.
- The Norfork Lake Wildlife Management Area is a popular destination for hunting, with opportunities for deer, turkey, and small game hunting. The area also has several hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging backcountry trails. The lake itself is also a popular destination for fishing, with a variety of fish species available, including bass, crappie, and catfish.
- In addition to its recreational opportunities, the Norfork Lake Wildlife Management Area is also an important conservation area. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission works to maintain and improve the area's habitat for wildlife and to manage its resources sustainably.
- Overall, the Norfork Lake Wildlife Management Area is a beautiful and important destination for outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists alike. Its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Baxter County.
Tourism and Sports
Table Rock Lake, Beaver Lake, and the White and Norfork Rivers are all popular destinations for tourism and outdoor recreation in Baxter County, Arkansas.
Table Rock Lake is a 43,000-acre reservoir located on the border of Missouri and Arkansas, with a small portion of the lake extending into Baxter County. The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports, with several marinas and boat ramps available for visitors. There are also several hiking trails in the area, as well as opportunities for camping and picnicking.
Beaver Lake is a 28,000-acre reservoir located in northwest Arkansas, with a small portion of the lake extending into Baxter County. The lake is known for its clear water and excellent fishing, with a variety of fish species available, including bass, crappie, and catfish. There are also opportunities for boating, water sports, camping, and hiking in the area.
The White and Norfork Rivers are both popular destinations for fishing and boating. The White River is known for its trout fishing, with rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout available. The Norfork River is also a popular destination for trout fishing, as well as for smallmouth bass and other fish species. Both rivers offer opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and other water sports.
Overall, Table Rock Lake, Beaver Lake, and the White and Norfork Rivers are all wonderful destinations for outdoor recreation in Baxter County. Whether you're looking to fish, boat, hike, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area, these destinations are definitely worth a visit.
Notables
- Lonnie D. Bentley born in 1957, in Mountain Home, Arkansas. She is an American computer scientist, and Professor and former Department Head of Computer and Information Technology at Purdue University. Co-author of the textbook Systems Analysis and Design Methods, which is now in its 7th Edition.
- Robbie Nell (Tilley) Branscum was born on June 17, 1934 in Big Flat, Arkansas. Robbie Nell Tilley Branscum was an American writer of children's books and young adult fiction. Her books were awarded a Friends of American Writers Award in 1977 and an Edgar Award in 1983.
- Jennifer J. Wiseman was born in Mountain Home, Arkansas. She is a Senior Project Scientist on the Hubble Space Telescope, and an American astronomer.
- Jacob Wolf was born on May 12, 1786 in Rowan County, North Carolina. He is an Arkansas pioneer, territorial legislator, county official, militia officer, post master and community leader. He was the first settler of Norfork, Arkansas.
- Caroyln D. (Wright) Gander was born on January 6, 1949 in Mountain Home, Arkansas. She was an American poet, a MacArthur Fellow, a Guggenheim Fellow, and the Poet Laureate of Rhode Island.
Biblical Names in Baxter County
- Amos Amos was a Prophet of Israel. He came from Tekoa of Judah but prophesied mainly concerning the Ten Tribes in the north.
- Ellis Ellis is a form of Eli the High Priest at the Tabernacle in Shiloh (in Ephraim) in the Book of Samuel.
- Gamaliel Gamaliel is the name of a leading Rabbi spoken of in the Rabbinical Mishna and also in the NT.
- Jordan The River Jordan runs through the Land of Israel.
- Old Joe Joe is short for Joseph.
Records and Resources
Ongoing Projects for Baxter County
- Baxter County Cemeteries need to be photographed and the categories added to profiles on WikiTree. See the Arkansas Cemeteries Project
- Baxter County Homesteaders Add profiles for those who obtained land grants and homesteaded in Arkansas. See the Homesteaders Project
- Help develop the Native Americans Project with information about Arkansas state tribes.
- Work on Arkansas'
- Unconnected Profiles and
- Unsourced
- Errors on profiles from Arkansas, as reported by the Database Errors Project
- Add profiles for the men who died specifically Arkansawyers involvement in:
- Additional projects:
- Census Indexing and linking profiles
- Arkansas_Disasters
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