Arkansas is home to over 250 historical societies, preservation organizations, and heritage groups. From major institutions in Little Rock and throughout the state to small-town societies preserving local heritage, these organizations maintain vital connections to Arkansas's rich past.
Featured Historical Societies
Arkansas History Commission
Location: Little Rock, AR
Founded: 1905
Official state archives maintaining government records, manuscripts, newspapers, and photographs documenting Arkansas history. Provides research assistance and educational programs.
Website: ark-ives.com
Old State House Museum
Location: Little Rock, AR
Founded: 1833 (building), Museum 1947
Arkansas's original state capitol building, now a museum of state history. Features exhibits on Arkansas politics, civil rights, and daily life from territorial days to present.
Website: oldstatehouse.com
Fort Smith Historical Society
Location: Fort Smith, AR
Founded: 1963
Preserves Fort Smith's frontier and law enforcement heritage, including connections to Judge Isaac Parker and the 'Hanging Judge' era. Operates museum and historic site.
Website: fortsmithmuseum.org
Arkansas State Archives
Location: Little Rock, AR
Founded: 1911
Official state repository for government records and historical documents. Extensive genealogical resources and materials documenting Arkansas from territorial days through modern times.
Fort Smith National Historic Site
Location: Fort Smith, AR
Founded: 1961
Preserves frontier military post and Judge Parker's federal court. Documents law enforcement on Indian Territory border and infamous 'Hanging Judge' era 1875-1896.
Website: nps.gov/fosm
Historic Arkansas Museum
Location: Little Rock, AR
Founded: 1941
Living history museum preserving four early 1800s buildings and interpreting Arkansas frontier life. Collections include decorative arts and material culture of territorial period.
Ozark Folk Center State Park
Location: Mountain View, AR
Founded: 1973
Preserves Ozark Mountain heritage crafts, music, and folkways. Living craftspeople demonstrate traditional skills from blacksmithing to broom-making.
Old State House Museum
Location: Little Rock, AR
Founded: 1833 (built)
Arkansas's original state capitol building, now museum interpreting state political history. Site of heated legislative debates and governor's offices from 1836-1911.
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Know of other Arkansas historical societies? Help us expand this directory by submitting organizations you're familiar with.
Submit a Society →Additional Arkansas History Resources
- Arkansas Historical Association - Statewide history organization
- Arkansas Historic Preservation Program - State historic preservation office
- Arkansas State Archives - State archives in Little Rock