Welcome to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas

Everything from Single-story church building with steeple with gravel in front with sign saying "Snowball Baptist Church" Snowball to Two-story courthouse with dome clock tower and four columns Poinsett County

This Day in Arkansas History

December 2, 1876

Pearl Oldfield, who became the first woman from Arkansas to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, was born to a farm family near Cotton Plant (Woodruff County). After her husband, William Oldfield, died during his twentieth year of service in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Democratic Central Committee nominated his widow to serve the remainder of his unexpired term and to serve the full term to which he had just been elected. She was elected and served from January 9, 1929, to March 3, 1931.

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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.

New to Arkansas?
New to Arkansas?

Our overview page covers everything you would want to know about our beautiful state, including state symbols, demographics and more!

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