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This Day in Arkansas History

August 22, 1933

James Buel Lile, known as “The Arkansas Knifesmith,” was born in Russellville (Pope County). As one of the most accomplished and famous custom knife makers in American history, Lile is credited with putting American knife-making on the map. He carved his first fixed-blade knife from wood at age eight. After having attended college without finishing a degree, he worked successfully in several positions, including teaching and coaching at Pottsville High School and owning and operating construction and sporting goods businesses, before deciding in 1970 on knife-making as his full-time occupation. Lile made knives used by Sylvester Stallone in the Rambo movies and bowie knives presented to Governor Bill Clinton and Presidents Ronald Reagan, Richard Nixon, and Gerald Ford.

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WCTU Banquet

The national Woman’s Christian Temperance Union (WTCU) was formed in 1874 in Ohio in an effort to combat the effects of alcohol on the family and society. The first Arkansas chapter was formed in Monticello (Drew County) in 1876, with a state chapter recognized in 1878. Members are shown here at a 1930s banquet held in Little Rock (Pulaski County). The organization remained active in the state until the 1980s.

 

The national Woman’s Christian Temperance Union (WTCU) was formed in 1874 in Ohio in an effort to combat the effects of alcohol on the family and society. The first Arkansas chapter was formed in Monticello (Drew County) in 1876, with a state chapter recognized in 1878. Members are shown here at a 1930s banquet held in Little Rock (Pulaski County). The organization remained active in the state until the 1980s.

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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, quizzes, lesson plans, and more, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

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