Arkansas's Best Swimming Holes

                

                As summer unfolds in Arkansas, locals and visitors venture into the woods, hills, and hollows seeking a refreshing retreat. With its many rivers, waterfalls, and spring-fed pools, the Natural State boasts some of the South's most beautiful swimming spots. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful soak or an adventurous dive, here are my top ten favorite locations to enjoy a swim in Arkansas.

1. Falling Water Falls — Near Ben Hur (Pope County)

Located in the stunning Ozark National Forest, Falling Water Falls is a must-visit spot that's easily accessible by car. Here, a broad, tranquil waterfall cascades into a pristine pool below, making it the perfect place for a quick dip or a leisurely afternoon spent snapping photos.

2. Blanchard Springs — Near Mountain View (Stone County)

Set in the vibrant Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, this naturally spring-fed swimming hole remains refreshingly cool throughout the year. Visitors can also enjoy nearby hiking trails, cozy campsites, and the renowned Blanchard Springs Caverns.

3. Lake Sylvia — Near Perryville (Perry County)

Tucked within the beautiful Ouachita National Forest, Lake Sylvia boasts a lovely sandy beach and a designated swimming area, perfect for family fun. With plenty of shaded spots for relaxation and full amenities close at hand, it’s a popular choice for families looking to enjoy the outdoors together.

4. Cossatot Falls — Near Wickes (Polk County)

Get ready for an exhilarating adventure at Cossatot River State Park! Here, you'll find stunning rocky formations that lead to deep plunge pools, perfect for those seeking a challenge. This thrilling stretch of river calls for experienced swimmers, making it ideal for those with a taste for excitement and a love for the wild. 

5. Haw Creek Falls — Near Hagarville (Johnson County)

Small but scenic, charming Haw Creek Falls showcases serene pools beside the creek, inviting you to wade, splash, or relax on the rocks. With primitive campsites in the vicinity, it's an ideal choice for a peaceful overnight retreat.

6. Six Finger Falls — Near Pelsor (Pope County)

Named for its six distinct channels of flowing water, Six Finger Falls boasts six unique channels of flowing water, offering inviting shallow streams and beautifully carved stone steps. This picturesque spot is perfect for families with kids and photographers alike, serving more as a delightful wading area than a swimming hole.

7. Little Missouri Falls — Near Langley (Pike County)

In the heart of the Ouachitas, this tiered waterfall gracefully cascades over rocky ledges, creating serene pools below. Even though the summer months bring a gentle decrease in flow, it's still a tranquil spot perfect for swimming and discovering the beauty of nature.

8. Kings River Falls — Near Boston (Madison County)

A brief trek along trails adorned with vibrant wildflowers brings you to a picturesque waterfall and serene natural pool. The swimming spot is tranquil, crystal-clear, and enveloped by stunning scenery.

9. Lake Wedington — Near Fayetteville (Washington County)

This accessible recreation area offers a beach, picnic areas, and lifeguard-monitored swimming in season. Great for groups, it’s a convenient option for Northwest Arkansas residents.

10. Richland Creek — Near Witts Springs (Searcy County)

Known for its dramatic scenery and turquoise pools, Richland Creek is a backpacker’s dream. Multiple waterfalls and crystal-clear waters reward those willing to make the hike.

                Remember, before you set out to find your perfect swimming hole, take a moment to check local weather conditions, especially if there has been heavy rainfall. Don’t forget to pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and suitable footwear. Remember, many swimming holes are off the beaten path and lack cell service, so it’s a good idea to inform someone about your destination.

                From rocky cascades to serene forested lakes, Arkansas’s swimming holes aren’t just refreshing—they’re an amazing part of the Natural State’s natural beauty and provide much-needed relief during the dog days of summer.

Marlsgate Plantation

            About fifteen years ago, an intern I once hired as an aide to former U.S. Senator Tim Hutchinson contacted me. I had known her older sister from high school and was familiar with other family members, so it was a privilege to be involved. The wedding took place at Marlsgate Plantation in Scott (Pulaski County), where I had never been. When I arrived at the rehearsal, I was instantly captivated by the elegance and historical significance of this remarkable building, along with its impeccably maintained grounds.

            Located on the shores of Bearskin Lake in Scott, Marlsgate Plantation stands as a testament to the grandeur and history of the American South. This stately Greek Revival mansion, designed by renowned architect Charles L. Thompson, was completed in 1904 and remains one of the most meticulously preserved plantation homes in the region.

            The origins of Marlsgate trace back to 1850, when Nettie Steele received 1,800 acres as a wedding gift from her father, Thomas W. Steele, upon her marriage to William Dortch. By 1895, the Dortch family had expanded their holdings to over 7,000 acres, cultivating cotton, rice, corn, and soybeans, and employing approximately 100 tenant families. The original plantation house, constructed in 1888, was replaced by the current Marlsgate mansion in 1904. The estate remained in the Dortch family for several generations, serving as a residence and the operational heart of their agricultural endeavors. 

            Marlsgate's architectural design exemplifies the Greek Revival style, characterized by its imposing two-story portico supported by square brick columns with Ionic capitals. The mansion's façade is further accentuated by a second-story balcony adorned with urn-shaped balusters and paired brackets. Inside, visitors are greeted by a dramatic central hall with a divided staircase, and rooms featuring 14-foot ceilings adorned with pressed tin tiles, each boasting a unique pattern. Carrara marble fireplaces, beveled glass windows, and sliding oak pocket doors add to the home's opulence. The estate encompasses 11,000 square feet across 32 rooms, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of its former inhabitants. 

            The grounds of Marlsgate are equally impressive, featuring four distinct gardens designed by renowned Arkansas garden designer P. Allen Smith. These gardens, including the "Garden of First Reveal" and "Bride’s Garden," are nestled among ancient oak trees and a pecan grove, providing a picturesque setting for visitors and events. The estate's proximity to Bearskin Lake, an oxbow lake formed by the changing course of the Arkansas River, adds to its natural beauty. 

            The house and sections of the plantation were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. In 1979, this listing was expanded to include more buildings that dated back to 1888.

            Today, Marlsgate Plantation serves as a premier venue for weddings, receptions, and other special events. The estate offers both indoor and outdoor settings, accommodating up to 1,000 guests. The Carriage House, located on the estate, has been transformed into a gift shop and bridal suite, enhancing the property's charm and functionality. The Talbot family, current owners of Marlsgate, continues to preserve and share the estate's rich history with visitors, ensuring that the legacy of Marlsgate endures for future generations. 

            Marlsgate Plantation is located at 2695 Bearskin Lake Road in Scott, approximately 14 miles southeast of Little Rock (Pulaski County). The estate is open for tours and events by appointment. For more information, contact Marlsgate Plantation at 870-717 2789 or visit their website at www.marlsgate.com.

            Marlsgate Plantation offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the elegance and history of the Arkansas Delta. Whether you're a history buff, architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a beautiful setting for a special occasion, Marlsgate Plantation provides an unforgettable look into the past of the Natural State.

Arkansas Becomes a State

            

            On Sunday, June 15, Arkansas marks its 189th anniversary as the 25th state of the United States. Native American heritage, colonial disputes, frontier dynamics, and the rising sectional tensions over slavery influenced the Natural State’s journey to statehood. Arkansas’s path to admission mirrors the larger national challenge of reconciling expansion with identity during a pivotal time in American history.

            Long before the name “Arkansas” was established, vibrant Indigenous communities such as the Quapaw, Caddo, and Osage nations thrived in the region. These tribes cultivated crops, engaged in trade along the rivers, and built intricate social structures.

            In the 17th century, French explorers arrived and claimed the territory for France. “Arkansas” originates from a French interpretation of a Quapaw word meaning “downstream people.” Control of the land went back and forth between France and Spain until the United States acquired it through President Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase in 1803, an important event that set the stage for extensive westward migration.

            After the Louisiana Purchase, the area that would become Arkansas was initially part of the Missouri Territory. As settlers flocked in, enticed by the fertile land and river access, it became evident that a more localized government was necessary. Consequently, in 1819, Congress established the Arkansas Territory from Missouri, designating Arkansas Post as its original capital before relocating it to Little Rock in 1821.

            Life in the territories was tough. With limited roads, the steady displacement of Native American tribes, and budding legal systems, settlers faced numerous obstacles. Yet, population growth persisted, fueled by migrants from Southern states who also brought their slaves.

            By the early 1830s, Arkansas had expanded in size and organization, prompting discussions about statehood. However, the path to statehood was more than just a local consideration—it was a matter of national politics, particularly as the nation grappled with the balance between free and slave states.

            Given Arkansas’s Southern culture and its population of slaveholders, it was seen as a strong candidate to join the Union as a slave state. At that time, maintaining the balance of power in Congress between free and slave states was a significant issue. The admission of Arkansas was a strategic move in this political landscape, immediately followed by Michigan's entry as a free state in 1837. In fact, the two parallel white stars at the left and right points of the blue diamond on our state flag symbolize the dual admission of Arkansas and Michigan to the United States. 

            On June 15, 1836, Arkansas officially became a state. The new state constitution allowed for slavery, firmly placing Arkansas within the Southern political sphere. This admission temporarily preserved the fragile balance between North and South, but as we know now, the peace would not last.

            As the debate over slavery grew more heated in the years leading up to the Civil War, Arkansas found itself increasingly caught in the conflicts that ultimately led to its secession from the Union and subsequent allegiance to the Confederacy.

            The journey to Arkansas's statehood is not merely a recounting of dates and legal documents; it offers a glimpse into the dynamic forces that shaped the early United States. While expansion provided new opportunities, it also brought about significant displacement and division. For Arkansas, becoming a state signified the start of its official participation in the American narrative—an identity shaped not only by its geographic location but also by the complex discussions and values of its era.

            Today, as our state continues to grow and adapt, its admission to the United States remains a crucial chapter in both state and national history. Arkansas’s path to statehood continues to highlight the interplay of geography, politics, and community at the forefront of America’s development on the western frontier.

            Happy 189th birthday, Arkansas! You’ve never looked better!

Murry's Dinner Playhouse

                One of my great-grandmother’s longtime wishes was to visit Murry’s Dinner Playhouse in Little Rock, a place she had always dreamed of experiencing. On her 75th birthday, my parents made that dream come true by surprising her with a special evening at Murry’s. She was overwhelmed with joy, smiling from ear to ear as she took in the atmosphere, enjoyed the meal, and watched the live performance. It was a heartfelt moment that honored her wish and created a memory our family will always cherish.

                The story of Murry’s Dinner Playhouse begins in 1967, when it was originally known as the Olde West Dinner Theatre. After some renovation, it reopened in September 1977 under the name Murry’s. The founder, Ike Murry, was not only a prominent attorney and civic leader, but also served as Arkansas’s attorney general from 1948 to 1952, and ran an unsuccessful campaign for governor in 1952. Today, Ike’s legacy continues through his daughter, Ginger, and her son, Ike Murry McEntire, who actively manage the theater.

                The McMillans’ vision was straightforward: to make theater accessible to more people, especially families. This goal influenced their choice of performances, focusing on a blend of comedies, musicals, and family-friendly shows. In 1967, they opened Murry’s Dinner Playhouse in a modest setting on the outskirts of Little Rock.

                By the early 1970s, Murry’s relocated to its current prime spot in downtown Little Rock, increasing its ability to attract a wider audience. The new venue, conveniently positioned off Interstate 630, boasted more seating, a bigger stage, and an ideal ambiance for the dinner theater experience. Its central location quickly established it as a favored destination for both locals and tourists.

                As Murry's earned a reputation for delivering exceptional productions paired with delicious meals, it became evident that the dinner theater concept was a hit. Over the years, the Playhouse has showcased impressive performances, from beloved Broadway classics like The Sound of Music and Annie to fresh contemporary plays and comedies.

                Murry’s is all about the perfect mix of great food and captivating live performances. When you walk through the doors, you can expect a delicious full meal featuring appetizers, entrées, and desserts, all served by attentive waitstaff while you enjoy the show. This unique combination creates a laid-back and immersive experience where you can savor your meal and the entertainment without missing a beat.

                More than just a venue for performances, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has become an important part of the Little Rock community. From its inception, the McMillans aimed to craft a warm, family-centric atmosphere, successfully making theater accessible to everyone. For many families in Little Rock and even throughout the state, a visit to Murry’s has turned into a cherished tradition.

                Murry’s has also created opportunities for local talent, serving as a launchpad for countless aspiring actors, directors, and musicians. Many have kicked off their careers at Murry’s, gaining invaluable experience and exposure that would follow them throughout their careers. It’s a place where young artists can sharpen their skills and build connections within the community.

                Like many arts organizations, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has faced its share of challenges over the years. Economic downturns, shifts in entertainment trends, and the emergence of new media have all tested the theater's durability. Nevertheless, the McMillans and their dedicated team have embraced these changes, successfully adapting to the evolving theater landscape while preserving the timeless charm of their distinctive dinner theater experience.

                In 2020, Murry's, like many theaters nationwide, encountered unprecedented hurdles due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With gathering restrictions and social distancing mandates in place, Murry’s had to halt in-person performances. In response, the Playhouse pivoted to virtual shows and implemented other innovative solutions to maintain a connection with audiences during such uncertain times.

                With a rich history in Little Rock, Murry's has forged a legacy that continues to flourish. The theater stands as a testament to what can happen when local passion, creativity, and hospitality combine to create something truly extraordinary. With its longstanding tradition of pairing delightful cuisine with captivating performances, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse remains a popular attraction in our state’s capital city.

                For details on their show schedule and operating hours, contact Murry’s at (501) 562-3131 or check out their website at www.murrysdp.com.

Arkansas or Arkansaw?

 

            Have you ever wondered why Arkansas is spelled differently from how we say it? The tale behind this intriguing mismatch lies in the area's rich history, rooted in its Native American and French colonial past.

            The name "Arkansas" comes from the Quapaw, a Native American tribe that inhabited what we now know as Arkansas. Nearby Algonquian-speaking tribes used a term that sounded like “Akansa,” blending a root word with a plural ending. When French explorers discovered the area in the 17th century, they adjusted the name to fit their language, calling it “Arcansas.” Staying true to their typical spelling conventions—much like the silent "s" in “Illinois”—they added a silent “s” at the end.

    The evolution of the name is captured in early historical records. In 1673, French explorers Marquette and Joliet referred to it as “AKANSEA” in their journals. Shortly thereafter, French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de LaSalle's map displayed the name as “ACANSA.” During French explorer Bernard de La Harpe’s expedition from 1718 to 1722, during which he discovered “the little rock,” the namesake of our capital city, the river was designated as “ARKANSAS,” and the tribe was termed “LES AKANSAS.” By around 1811, explorer Zebulon Pike began using the spelling “ARKANSAW.”

            When English-speaking settlers arrived, they kept the French spelling but didn’t follow the French pronunciation rules. This caused a split in how people pronounced it: some said “Ar-KAN-zas,” similar to Kansas, while others favored the French-influenced “AR-kan-saw.”

            The Arkansas Gazette, founded in 1819 by William E. Woodruff at Arkansas Post, consistently used “Arkansas” from its beginning. By the early 1800s, this spelling gained acceptance in official documents and geographical references. Even before it was legally clarified, the Gazette established the spelling we recognize today.

            In the early days of Arkansas' statehood, there was quite a bit of disagreement even among its two U.S. Senators about how to pronounce the state's name. One senator was introduced as hailing from “ARkanSAW,” while the other identified with “Ar-KANSAS.”

            To settle the confusion, the Arkansas General Assembly stepped in and passed a law in 1881 (Resolution 1-4-105) that officially defined how the state's name should be pronounced. The law declared: "Whereas, the true pronunciation of the name of this state has been a matter of dispute… the name of this State shall be pronounced in three syllables, with the final ‘s’ silent, the ‘a’ in each syllable with the Italian sound, and the accent on the first and last syllables."  

            This decision was a celebration of the state’s rich cultural heritage, blending influences from both French and Native American traditions. Even today, Arkansas stands out as the only state with a legally mandated pronunciation, making it a linguistic curiosity and a source of pride for its residents.

            Unfortunately, comprehensive records of the debates that led to this pronunciation law are quite limited. While the law was enacted during the term of Gov. Thomas J. Churchill (1881–1883), the lack of thorough documentation suggests that it wasn't a significant point of contention back then.

            Arkansas and Kansas may look alike, but their pronunciation tells a different story. While Kansas, named after the Kansa people, is pronounced “Kan-zus,” Arkansas hangs on to its unique French-inspired pronunciation: “Arkansaw.” This distinction was solidified by the 1881 law that outlined how the name should be spoken.

            Ultimately, standardizing the pronunciation of Arkansas did more than just end a discussion about language; it helped maintain an important cultural heritage that ties the Natural State to its Native American and French colonial roots.