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This Day in Arkansas History

February 28, 1943

The USS Cossatot (AO-77) was commissioned in Norfolk, Virginia. First named Fort Necessary, the tanker was later named after the Cossatot River located in southwestern Arkansas. The USS Cossatot served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters during World War II, with more than seven convoys to North Africa during its first year before moving into the Pacific Ocean in 1944, where it remained following the end of the war. The USS Cossatot continued service until 1974, when it was struck from the naval record. The ship was sold for scrap the following year.

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Bauxite, Official State Rock

Bauxite, the most common ore of aluminum, was first found in Arkansas in 1887 and publicly identified by State Geologist John C. Branner in 1891. Bauxite is found mostly in Saline and Pulaski counties. In 1967, an omnibus bill, Act 128, contained a measure designating bauxite as the official state rock. The same measure designated the diamond as the official state gem and quartz crystal as the official state mineral.

 

Bauxite, the most common ore of aluminum, was first found in Arkansas in 1887 and publicly identified by State Geologist John C. Branner in 1891. Bauxite is found mostly in Saline and Pulaski counties. In 1967, an omnibus bill, Act 128, contained a measure designating bauxite as the official state rock. The same measure designated the diamond as the official state gem and quartz crystal as the official state mineral.

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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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