Fort Smith

Fort Smith is known as “Where the old West begins.” This is more than a slogan as True West magazine, in its annual review, has named Fort Smith as one of the top 10 most western towns for seven consecutive years.
Known as the home of federal Judge Isaac Parker in the 1880’s, Fort Smith is now known as the home of the US Marshals Museum.
You can see the statue of, and read the story of US Marshal Bass Reeves, one of several deputies who were the model for Rooster Cogburn. The statue is located at the west end of Garrison Avenue as you cross the bridge into the “Oklahoma Territory”.

United States Marshals Museum

After years of preparation, the US Marshals Museum opened on July 1, 2023. The 53,000 square foot Mary Carleton and Robert A. Young III Building and Samuel M. Sicard Hall of Honor were dedicated on September 24, 2019 along the banks of the Arkansas River in Fort Smith. Featuring an iconic design, the Museum shares the stories of justice, integrity, and service of the Marshals who have bravely served our nation.

Phone: (479) 242-1789

Address: 789 Riverfront Dr. Fort Smith, AR 72901

Website: marshalsmuseum.org

Gateway Park
Judge Isaac Parker statue

Isaac Parker was nominated and confirmed as judge for the Western District of Arkansas including Indian Territory in March of 1875.

A bronze statue of Parker, serves as the centerpiece of Gateway Park at the triangle of land in eastern downtown Fort Smith created by the intersection of Rogers and Garrison Avenues. The sculpture, which sits on a four-foot stone pedestal and stands just over seven feet tall, was designed by Kansas City artist Spencer Schubert.

Fort Smith Museum of History

The Fort Smith Museum of History is located in downtown Fort Smith, Arkansas. Being the oldest functioning museum in the state, we present a fascinating reflection of the people and culture that built the city and area.

Phone: (479) 783-7841

Address: 320 Rogers Ave. Fort Smith, AR 72901

Website: www.fortsmithmuseum.org

Welcome to Fort Smith, Arkansas

Make your next travel memories in a city pulsing with the fusion of a modern South and the old Wild West—Fort Smith, Arkansas. Get ready to discover the unique charm of a big Arkansas city with a welcoming small town vibe, and create an unforgettable travel experience!

Phone: (479) 783-8888 (800) 637-1477

Address: 2 North B St. Fort Smith, AR 72901

Website: www.discoverfortsmith.com

Fort Smith

Fort Smith is known as “Where the old West begins.” This is more than a slogan as True West magazine, in its annual review, has named Fort Smith as one of the top 10 most western towns for seven consecutive years.

Known as the home of federal Judge Isaac Parker in the 1880’s, Fort Smith is now known as the home of the US Marshals Museum.

You can see the statue of, and read the story of US Marshal Bass Reeves, one of several deputies who were the model for Rooster Cogburn. The statue is located at the west end of Garrison Avenue as you cross the bridge into the “Oklahoma Territory”.​

United States Marshals Museum

Gateway Park Judge Isaac Parker statue

Fort Smith Museum of History

Welcome to Fort Smith, Arkansas

You can see the statue of, and read the story of US Marshal Bass Reeves, one of several deputies who were the model for Rooster Cogburn. The statue is located at the west end of Garrison Avenue as you cross the bridge into the “Oklahoma Territory”.

Gateway Park
Judge Isaac Parker statue