Van Buren, Arkansas was established in 1818 as a river port and the starting point of the westward expansion.

The Beginnings of the Court
The origins of the Western District of Arkansas lie in the westward expansion of the country in general and the early 1800s resettlement of various Native American tribes into what is now Oklahoma. In particular, the Indian Removal Act of 1830 created a situation of instability and violence in what is now eastern Oklahoma and in western Arkansas, as well as portions of Texas and Kansas, thus making the creation of the court a necessity. This is where the supply system of the old west started. Wagon trains, Mule and Ox teams, steam boats pack trains all heading west.

All came through for the flat land passes through Indian Territory. The Daltons, Doolins, Frank and Jesse, Cole Younger and his kin, Belle and Pearl Star, Ned Christie and Cherokee Bill did …well, business. 100 US Deputy Marshals and lawmen were laid to rest. Legendary lawmen like Heck Thomas and Bass Reeves served with distinction. After the court was moved to Fort Smith one man was sent to clean it up.  Judge Isaac C Parker would sit in judgment from 1875 to 1896 hearing an astounding 13000 cases.  The sentencing of 168 men to die of which 88 saw their last daylight earned Parker the title of “The Hangin’ Judge.”  Unequivocally: The final say. George Maledon and a few good feet of well oiled hemp rope carried out the final sentence.  Bull whackers, fur traders, loggers, boat crews, stage passengers, fancy women, saloons and brothels.  Brawls, gun fights in the streets and battles from the war of northern aggression. Van Buren had ‘em all.

Stop by for a cool drink at the bar, get yer picher took in front of our 1800’s jail or shop the general store. Swing by the gun room and check out Taylors and Company firearms as well as original Colts, Winchesters and many others. 1800’s clothing off the rack or custom made, cast iron pots even dry goods. Everything you need for your own westward expansion.

Visit http://www.vanburen.org/ for more info.