There Are More Historic Places In This Rural Arkansas County Than We Can Possibly Count
By Melanie Johnson|Published August 31, 2023
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Melanie Johnson
Author
I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.
Did you know that we have over 2,500 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places? And rightfully so, because Arkansas is rich in history and there are so many historical structures that are stitched into the fabric of our state. With 75 counties, you can find at least 8 historical sites in each of them. However, Stone County has 57 places listed on the register and each one is worth visiting. History buffs, come with me to explore a few of these sites in this historic rural county in Arkansas.
If you've been to Mountain View, you might have seen this charming two-story wood-framed hotel located in the heart of the downtown square. Built in 1925, it was originally named the Commercial Hotel, but today operates as the Wildflower Bed & Breakfast. With its wrap around porch and wildflower themed rooms, It's one of the most highly rated hotels in Mountain View.
Perhaps one of the most recognizable buildings in Stone County, the Mountain View Courthouse serves as a gathering spot for events in town. Constructed in 1922, the courthouse was beautifully built using native sandstone from the Ozark Mountains and has been recognized for its historical as well as its architectural significance.
Along the Sylamore Creek in the tiny community of Allison, this 202-foot swinging bridge was originally built in the early 1900s, then reconstructed twice thereafter due to its historical significance. Sylamore Creek Bridge is famously known for appearing in the 1974 crime comedy movie The Bootleggers. It's one of the only remaining wire-cable suspension bridges that you can drive across.
Built in 1915 by Arkansas businessman Francis Brewer, this two-story, wood-frame building operated as a grist mill and it's the only industrial structure of its kind left in the county. Added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1985, this historic old mill is located just outside the commercial district of Mountain View on Highway 66.
Tucked inside the tiny town of Marcella, this architecturally stunning home was built in 1900 by the Hess family, who were prominent farmers in the area. This impressive two-story home reflects the opulence of the family, and it was added to the NRHP in 1983.
Witness the most stunning panoramic vistas from atop Sugarloaf Mountain, as you stare across the rolling hills of the Ozarks from this historic lookout in Stone County. The historical site was built in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps and includes a tower as well as a residence and a storage cellar.
While driving through the rural parts of Arkansas, it's very likely to come across an old barn. And like H.S. Mabry Barn, many are listed on the NRHP. This massive historic structure was built in 1922 and was used to herd a large herd of mules. Located in the tiny community of East Richwood, this barn is worth visiting at least once.
Tucked along Mill Creek inside a pretty wooded area in the community of Onia is the Roasting Ear Creek Church and School building. Fabricated in 1918, this wooden structure is a reminder of yesteryears, when buildings were constructed for multi-function use.
You might have been to Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, but did you know that Mirror Lake, the dam, the observation shelter as well as the two bridges are listed on the NRHP? The district was created in 1940 by the Civilian Conservation Corps after the damming of the lake.
So, how many of these historical places in Stone County have you visited? Or which of the sites would you like to see for yourself? Tell us in the comments below. Also, to find out more about some of these listings visit the Arkansas Heritage website. If you’re in Stone County, be sure to check out the enchanting town of Mountain View.
I encourage you to take a weekend trip to Stone County to see some of these historic places, it would be a great road trip adventure for the family.
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