Arkansas Post National Memorial

In 1686, Henri de Tonti established a trading post known as "Poste de Arkansea" at the Quapaw village of Osotouy. It was the first semi-permanent French settlement in the lower Mississippi River Valley. The establishment of the Post was the first step in a long struggle between France, Spain, and England over the interior of the North American continent.

Over the years, the Post relocated as necessary due to flooding from the Arkansas River, but its position always served of strategic importance for the French, Spanish, American, and Confederate military. The 1783 "Colbert Incident," the only Revolutionary War action in Arkansas, brought the first organized combat to the region.

Arkansas Post became part of the United States during the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. By 1819, the post was a thriving river port and the largest city in the region and selected the capital of the Arkansas Territory.

During the Civil War, Confederate troops tried to maintain tactical control of the confluence of the two rivers, and in 1862 they constructed a massive earthen fortification known as Fort Hindman. In January 1863 Union troops destroyed the fort and adjacent river port town, ensuring control of the Arkansas River.

Today, the memorial and museum commemorate the multi-layered and complex history of the site. Located on a peninsula bordered by the Arkansas River and two backwaters, the site offers excellent fishing and wildlife watching opportunities.

Arkansas Post National Memorial
1741 Old Post Road
Gillett, AR 72055
870-548-2207 - Headquarters
870-548-2207 - Visitor Information

By Plane
Little Rock, 100 miles northwest, is serviced by an international airport.

By Car
The entrance to the park is on Arkansas state road 169, nine miles south of Gillett, via U.S. 165 (The Great River Road), and about 17 miles northeast of Dumas, via U.S. 165.

Getting Around
A paved two-mile scenic drive connects the picnic area, wayside exhibits, and the visitor center.

Two and a half miles of paved-accessible trail connect the town site, nature trail, and wayside exhibits. An additional unpaved trail follows the edge of the bayou along a bluff bank.

Summers are generally hot and humid. Winters are generally moderate. Insects are common during much of the year, as they are in other areas of the South, and appropriate precautions should be observed.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Biking
• Boating
• Educational Programs
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Wildlife Viewing
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks

Recommended Activities
Guided tours are available for groups upon request. Reservations are recommended. Bus parking is available at the visitor center. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the town site and nature trails.

A Junior Ranger program is available for children ages 7 - 12. On-site and off-site school programs are available upon request.