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Welcome to the new CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas

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. It will also benefit people outside the state who are seeking information about Arkansas. 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. The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a work in progress. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, and audio files, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

Photo Of The Day
Jacob Wolf House

The Jacob Wolf House is the oldest public structure in Arkansas. Built in 1829 by Major Jacob Wolf, it served as the Izard County Courthouse for approximately six years and then was the private residence of the Wolf family. This photo shows the two-story dog-trot-style house in about 1910. The property, which is now owned by Baxter County, went through a major restoration in 2002.

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This Day in Arkansas History
August 25, 1899

Clyde Henry “Pea Ridge” Day was born, either in Pea Ridge (Benton County), where his family owned a farm, or in McDonald County, Missouri, at the home of relatives. Known as the “hog-calling pitcher” in a baseball career spanning the 1920s and early 1930s, Day transported his considerable talents, his hometown’s name, and a slice of the lively culture of the Arkansas hills onto the national scene. Day’s fun-loving showmanship and competitive spirit brought rare publicity to his hometown and home state.

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