Powhatan Historic State Park
Powhatan Historic State Park is a historical park located in Arkansas. Powhatan Historic State Park is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm from Tuesday through Saturday and from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sundays. Many historical sites are open to the public and can be explored via guided tours, including the courthouse, jail, telephone exchange building, Ficklin-Imboden Log House, and Powhatan Female Academy.
These excursions offer illuminating and unique insights into the history of the town. Wheelchair access is available at the Ficklin-Imboden House, the 1888 Courthouse, and the Male-Female Academy. Powhatan has a rich history, and the state park is the best place to learn about it.
History Of Powhatan Historic State Park
The Indian chief Powhatan, Pocahontas’s father, inspired Powhatan. The Osage Indians called this area home before Powhatan was founded in 1853. The federal government forcibly removed the Osage Indians to reservations in other states in 1817. Sternwheelers, keelboats, and ferries were important in transporting goods and people across the rivers when the first steamboat, The Laurel, was docked in Powhatan in 1829.
The town’s namesake, John Ficklin, opened Ficklin Ferry on the Black River in 1837, making it an important year-round link between Jacksonport and Pocahontas. Several reasons contributed to Powhatan’s decline from a bustling town to a more sedate one. The Great Depression, World Wars I and II, and shifts in transportation modes all had an effect. The county seat was moved out of town in 1966, the school was consolidated in 1956, and the final ferry was shut down in the 1950s, both of which accelerated the town’s demise.
Things To Do At Powhatan Historic State Park
You can put yourself in the middle of history by touring the amazing historic buildings within Powhatan Historic State Park.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park as you stroll over its grounds and gaze in awe at the breathtaking flora and beauty that can be found there.
Explore Historic Buildings
Explore the many historic structures that are located inside Powhatan Historic State Park to get a better understanding of the region’s rich and eventful past. The park is part of the Virginia State Park System. Participate in narrated tours of the Powhatan Male Female Academy, the Ficklin-Imboden Log House, the Jail, and the Telephone Exchange Building. Understanding their significance and obtaining new perspectives on the town’s history.
Nature & Scenery
In addition to its historical significance, the park features stunning natural scenery all around. Take your time as you stroll lazily across the park’s grounds, enjoying the crisp, clean air and revelling in the calm ambience.
Take in the breathtaking countryside views surrounding you, especially the gorgeous riverfront. It is an excellent location for unwinding, enjoying a picnic, or just taking in the splendour of the natural world.
Address: 4414 AR-25, Powhatan, AR 72458, United States
Opens-Closes: 8 am-5 pm
Phone: +1 870-878-6765
Established: March 28, 1970
Management: Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism
