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This Day in Arkansas History

January 8, 1942

The brick school building in Vilonia (Faulkner County) burned one month after America’s entry into World War II. Although many resources were going to the war effort, Vilonia’s citizens donated labor, money, and materials to rebuild the school, and the new building was finished by the next school year.

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Bella Vista Plan

The northwest Arkansas planned community of Bella Vista (Benton County) began in 1915 when William Baker developed a summer resort on land he and his wife owned. Two years later, the Bakers sold the fledgling resort to the Linebarger brothers of Dallas, Texas, who sold lots for summer homes. Shown here is a drawing of what the development was expected to become. Early success was tempered by changing vacation habits, the Great Depression, and World War II.

 

The northwest Arkansas planned community of Bella Vista (Benton County) began in 1915 when William Baker developed a summer resort on land he and his wife owned. Two years later, the Bakers sold the fledgling resort to the Linebarger brothers of Dallas, Texas, who sold lots for summer homes. Shown here is a drawing of what the development was expected to become. Early success was tempered by changing vacation habits, the Great Depression, and World War II.

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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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