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This Day in Arkansas History

July 23, 1863

Major General Sterling Price assumed command of the Confederate District of Arkansas and deployed his troops, establishing a line of defense on Bayou Meto at present-day Jacksonville (Pulaski County) while ordering his cavalry to delay the approaching Union troops as long as possible. The Confederate commander also established a strong line of fortifications on high ground opposite Little Rock (Pulaski County).

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Charlie May Simon

Born in 1897 in Drew County, Charlie May Simon became one of the state’s most prolific authors. Known most for her children’s literature, she wrote almost thirty books and published countless short stories. In 1971, the Arkansas State Department of Education honored her by creating the Charlie May Simon Award—an award for children’s literature. She died in 1977 and is buried next to her husband, poet John Gould Fletcher, in Mount Holly Cemetery.

 

Born in 1897 in Drew County, Charlie May Simon became one of the state’s most prolific authors. Known most for her children’s literature, she wrote almost thirty books and published countless short stories. In 1971, the Arkansas State Department of Education honored her by creating the Charlie May Simon Award—an award for children’s literature. She died in 1977 and is buried next to her husband, poet John Gould Fletcher, in Mount Holly Cemetery.

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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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