Unless you’ve been living in a well-protected bubble, you may have heard about all the unidentified flying objects (UFO) sightings lately. And of course, UFOs are not a new phenomenon, as we have been witnessing these flying crafts in our skies for many, many years. But did you know that Arkansas is a hotspot for these mysterious objects? Yep, in fact, in 1897 in the Ouachita Mountains near Hot Springs, there was a major “UFO” sighting in Arkansas that became one of the most credible sightings in US history.   

Since UFOs are the talk of the town, it only makes sense to share one of Arkansas' sightings that placed us on the map.
UFO sighting in Arkansas
Ira Allen/Google
While the story remains unconfirmed, the incident happened in 1897 in the Ouachita Mountains near Hot Springs.
Known as the Arkansas Airship Mystery of 1897, legend has it that Constable John J. Sumpter, Jr., and Deputy Sheriff John McLemore were investigating an unrelated event in the area.
Sydney Mail, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
While in the region, they both noticed a strange bright light in the sky and naturally, they decided to get a closer look.
IBiAFoddoAbbarad/Flickr
The men were determined to investigate the lights, but their horses wanted no parts of it. Eventually, they dismounted and pulled their weapons.

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Upon arrival to the light, they noticed a strange, cigar-shaped vessel that was approximately 60-feet long.
UFO sighting in Arkansas
Luis Senarens, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Strangely enough, the lawmen said they encountered men who offered a ride inside the vessel to which they declined.
Believe it or not, this flying craft was spotted in other areas of the country. I guess it wasn't a UFO after all, but it did make national news and placed Arkansas in the spotlight for other UFO sightings.
Markus Koller Welcome2Earth/Streetphotography/Flickr
Since that encounter, there have been several notable sightings in Arkansas and organizations like the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) have investigated many of them.
Plus, for 36 years, we have hosted the Ozark Mountain UFO Conference in Eureka Springs. The event attracts lots of folks wanting to explore this phenomenon.
Mr,W5er 3nee (More Evolved .. ?)/Flickr
Whether you believe in UFOs are not, chances are, you've seen strange things in Arkansas' skies. While many can be explained as simply clouds, balloons, or perhaps drones, I believe that some are in fact, unidentified flying objects. The truth is out there!

So, did you know about this “UFO” sighting in Arkansas? Or have you had any encounters of your own? If so, share your experience in the comments below. Discover more about this incident by visiting the Explore Southern History website. 

Want more strange phenomena in Arkansas? Check out this article about Blowing Cave in Cave City. Legend has it that it’s an opening to another world with strange blue human-like people. Also, if you’re searching for some otherworldly adventures, here is a unique attraction in Arkansas that’s shrouded in mystery.

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Ouachita National Forest, Hot Springs, AR 71902, USA