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This Day in Arkansas History

May 10, 1875

Judge Isaac Charles Parker, popularly known as the “hanging judge” of Fort Smith (Sebastian County), held court for the first time. Appointed by President Ulysses S. Grant as a judge for the Western District of Arkansas in 1875, he was the youngest federal judge on the bench when he arrived in Fort Smith. During his tenure, Judge Parker sentenced 160 to die on the gallows (only seventy-nine were actually hanged) and, though he had his critics, is widely credited with bringing law and order to the frontier.

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Fort Smith National Cemetery

The Fort Smith National Cemetery is the oldest of the state’s three national cemeteries. It was originally a post cemetery, with the first internment in 1819. Designated a national cemetery in 1867, it is today the resting place of more than 13,000 veterans and family members. Among the notables interred are the famous judge Isaac Parker and World War II brigadier general William O. Darby. Shown here is the entrance to the cemetery.

 

The Fort Smith National Cemetery is the oldest of the state’s three national cemeteries. It was originally a post cemetery, with the first internment in 1819. Designated a national cemetery in 1867, it is today the resting place of more than 13,000 veterans and family members. Among the notables interred are the famous judge Isaac Parker and World War II brigadier general William O. Darby. Shown here is the entrance to the 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, and audio files, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

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