April 12, 2011

Ozark (Franklin County) is located on the northernmost bend of the Arkansas River. Though settled in 1836, Ozark was not incorporated until 1850. Its name is derived from “aux arc,” French for “at the bend.” Local legend states that early French settlers shot an arrow into the air and determined to found the town where the arrow landed. The arrow is said to have landed just northeast of the present county courthouse shown in this photograph.