Scott County Historical and Genealogical Society

The Scott County Historical and Genealogical Society (SCHGS) was established in 1986 by a group of citizens and historians. The SCHGS strives to promote Scott County’s history, working to research, compile, and archive much of the county’s history and genealogical records. The SCHGS assists interested individuals throughout Arkansas and the United States.

The founding officers included Wanda Gray as president, Gary Blythe as president elect, Judy Knapp as vice president, Pat Murdoch as corresponding secretary, Leroy Levisay as recording secretary, and Phillis Cook as treasurer. Likewise, the original board of directors included members Leroy Levisay, Helen Faye Taff, Shirley Blythe, Doris Ridenhour, and June Hawkins.

The SCHGS moved into the second story of the Old Scott County Jail in 1987 and later occupied the entire building. The ground floor functions as the library and research space, while the second story serves as additional storage for archival material. Over the years, the society has amassed a collection of artifacts and historical pieces pertaining to Scott County’s history, which are on display throughout the Old Scott County Jail.

In 1986, the society began offering a quarterly periodical called Echoes, focusing on Scott County’s history. Entries for Echoes include specific topics about local communities, significant residents, important events, and historical findings. Dozens of other publications have been produced by the society since its formation. Prominent authors include John O’Nale, Norman Goodner, Wanda Gray, Delaine Edwards, and Carolynn Hannah. The society’s fifteen-dollar annual membership fee includes a subscription to Echoes.

The SCHGS continues to have a strong working relationship with Scott County’s citizens, as well as county and city officials, in the twenty-first century. The SCHGS archives and library are open to the public a few times during the week or by appointment.

For additional information:
Echoes: The Scott County Historical and Genealogical Society Quarterly. Waldron, AR: Scott County Historical and Genealogical Society (1986–).

“Old Scott County Jail.” National Register of Historic Places registration form. On file at Arkansas Historic Preservation Program, Little Rock, Arkansas. Online at http://www.arkansaspreservation.com/National-Register-Listings/PDF/SC0040.nr.pdf (accessed December 31, 2020).

Ty Richardson
Richardson Preservation Consulting