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This Day in Arkansas History

November 14, 1997

A second unit, consisting of 360 acres and known as the Osotowy Unit, was added to Arkansas Post National Memorial site near Gillett in Arkansas County. Arkansas Post is the place where the first permanent European colony in the Mississippi River Valley was established, and it served as the capital of the territory for a time. The first unit, the Memorial Unit, comprises 389 acres and has a visitor center with a museum and theater, as well as 2.5 miles of paved trails. The museum displays exhibits on archaeological finds at the park, the Civil War battle fought in the area, and other aspects of the history of Arkansas Post. The second unit, not open to the public, contains the Quapaw village of Osotowy, the Menard-Hodges archaeological site, and possibly the site of the first post, which was moved several times because of flooding.

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Sonny Burgess and the Pacers

Upon the advice of Elvis Presley, Sonny Burgess of Newport (Jackson County) and his bar band traveled to Memphis, Tennessee, and were able to secure a recording contract with Sun Records. Renamed Sonny Burgess and the Pacers, the band became one of Sun’s original rock and roll recording artists. As of 2007, Burgess, who is shown here in the black suit, and the Pacers continue to tour.

 

Upon the advice of Elvis Presley, Sonny Burgess of Newport (Jackson County) and his bar band traveled to Memphis, Tennessee, and were able to secure a recording contract with Sun Records. Renamed Sonny Burgess and the Pacers, the band became one of Sun’s original rock and roll recording artists. As of 2007, Burgess, who is shown here in the black suit, and the Pacers continue to tour.

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About the Encyclopedia

The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a free, authoritative source of information about the rich history, geography, and culture of Arkansas. It is updated regularly to ensure the people of Arkansas have an accurate and accessible resource to explore our heritage. We invite you to browse our text entries and media galleries to learn more about the people, places, events, legends, and lore of the 25th state. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, and audio files, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

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