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This Day in Arkansas History

November 9, 1827

Nearly two weeks after being wounded in a duel, Henry Wharton Conway died at the age of thirty-four. Elected as the delegate from Arkansas Territory to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1822, Conway pushed for the construction of roads and for federal assistance to relocate the Native Americans living on agricultural lands. His final reelection campaign of 1827 is known as one of the most vicious campaigns in Arkansas history.

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Sundown Town Flyer

From the 1890s to the late 1960s, many white populations in towns across the United States purposely established policies to keep African Americans out. Such towns were commonly called “sundown towns” due to the fact that it was understood by black people that they should not be there when the sun went down. Many towns openly posted signs, and in others, the policy was taken for granted. Towns such as Mena (Polk County), the subject of this 1920s advertisement, proudly advertised the fact that the town was all white.

 

From the 1890s to the late 1960s, many white populations in towns across the United States purposely established policies to keep African Americans out. Such towns were commonly called “sundown towns” due to the fact that it was understood by black people that they should not be there when the sun went down. Many towns openly posted signs, and in others, the policy was taken for granted. Towns such as Mena (Polk County), the subject of this 1920s advertisement, proudly advertised the fact that the town was all white.

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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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