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This Day in Arkansas History

March 14, 1874

Sid Wallace was hanged, an event that drew observers from across Johnson County. One of the most famous violent post–Civil War episodes in Johnson County was the 1873 murder of Judge Elisha Mears. The man suspected in the killing was “noted desperado” Sid Wallace, who attempted to assassinate Joseph T. Dickey, a St. Louis drummer (or a railroad foreman, depending upon the source), in the spring of 1872 and who was convicted of murdering Constable R. W. Ward of Clarksville.

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Calico Rock Church and Oddfellows Hall

Rural schools in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, such as the one shown here in Calico Rock (Izard County), typically practiced split terms. Schools generally opened in July, recessed for the fall harvest, started again in the winter, and once again recessed for spring planting. Teacher professionalism and pay were low, with many rural teachers having little more education than their students.

 

Rural schools in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, such as the one shown here in Calico Rock (Izard County), typically practiced split terms. Schools generally opened in July, recessed for the fall harvest, started again in the winter, and once again recessed for spring planting. Teacher professionalism and pay were low, with many rural teachers having little more education than their students.

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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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