History of Calhoun County, Arkansas
Introduction to Calhoun County
Calhoun County, located in southern Arkansas, was established on December 6, 1850, from portions of Dallas, Ouachita, and Bradley counties. Named after John C. Calhoun, the seventh Vice President of the United States, it is one of the smallest and least populous counties in the state. Primarily rural, the county has deep roots in agriculture and timber, which have been key to its development. With a rich historical background, Calhoun County reflects the challenges and triumphs of the broader Southern experience, from pre-European contact through the modern era.
County Facts
- Founded: December 6, 1850
- Population (2020): Approximately 4,739
- Area: 632 square miles
- Area Codes: 870
- ZIP Codes: 71743, 71744, 71758, 71759, 71765
- County Seat: Hampton
- Major Cities: Hampton (county seat), Thornton, Harrell
- Famous Landmarks: Moro Bay State Park, Calhoun County Courthouse, Ouachita River
Early History and Indigenous Presence (Pre-1541)
Before European exploration, the area now known as Calhoun County was inhabited by various Native American tribes. The Ouachita River, which flows through the county, served as a lifeline for indigenous peoples, providing food and water, and serving as a transportation route. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Caddo people were one of the dominant tribes in the region. These Native American societies practiced agriculture, cultivating crops like corn, beans, and squash, and lived in organized villages.
Spanish and French Exploration (1541–1803)
In 1541, the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto became the first European to traverse what is now Calhoun County. De Soto’s expedition, which aimed to find gold and riches, marked the beginning of European interest in the region. However, it wasn’t until the late 17th century that French explorers, including Robert de La Salle, claimed the territory for France as part of Louisiana. The French influence is still evident in the names of rivers and landmarks throughout Arkansas.
In 1803, the Louisiana Purchase brought the area under American control, setting the stage for future settlement by European Americans.
Early Settlement and Territorial Days (1803–1850)
The Louisiana Purchase and Opening to Settlement (1803)
With the signing of the Louisiana Purchase, the vast area that included modern-day Arkansas came under American control. This opened the region to settlers from the eastern United States. By the early 1800s, pioneers began moving into the Ouachita River Valley, attracted by the abundant natural resources, fertile soil, and the river for transportation. These early settlers primarily engaged in subsistence farming, hunting, and trapping.
Arkansas Territory and Initial Development (1819–1836)
In 1819, Arkansas became a U.S. territory, and the population slowly grew as settlers arrived in search of land and opportunity. The surrounding areas of what would become Calhoun County were largely rural, with small, self-sufficient farms and limited infrastructure. Roads were rudimentary, and most transportation relied on rivers like the Ouachita.
Statehood and the Creation of Calhoun County (1836–1850)
Arkansas became the 25th state in the Union in 1836, but Calhoun County did not yet exist. The region that would become Calhoun was part of several larger counties until 1850 when, due to population growth and the need for more localized governance, the Arkansas General Assembly created the county. The county was named after John C. Calhoun, a prominent politician and statesman known for his defense of states’ rights and the institution of slavery.
Civil War and Reconstruction (1861–1877)
Impact of the Civil War on Calhoun County (1861–1865)
Like much of the South, Calhoun County was deeply affected by the Civil War. Although no major battles occurred in the county, many men from the area enlisted in the Confederate Army. The war disrupted the local economy, which was primarily agricultural and dependent on slavery. By the end of the war in 1865, the county’s farms, infrastructure, and population had suffered significant losses.
Reconstruction and Economic Challenges (1865–1877)
Reconstruction was a difficult period for Calhoun County, as it was for much of the South. The abolition of slavery devastated the labor system that supported the agricultural economy, leading to a long and painful recovery process. Sharecropping and tenant farming became common as landowners sought new ways to maintain their farms without slave labor.
During this time, railroads began expanding into Arkansas, although the rail lines did not immediately reach Calhoun County. This left the county relatively isolated, and economic recovery was slow compared to other regions of the state.
Growth and Development (1877–1945)
Timber and Agriculture Drive Growth (Late 1800s)
By the late 19th century, Calhoun County’s economy began to diversify, with timber emerging as a key industry. The vast forests of southern Arkansas were ripe for logging, and sawmills sprang up throughout the county. Agriculture remained important, particularly the cultivation of cotton, but the timber industry provided new opportunities for economic development.
Railroads finally reached Calhoun County in the late 19th century, facilitating the transportation of timber and other goods. The improved infrastructure also brought more settlers to the area and helped integrate Calhoun County into the broader Arkansas economy.
The Great Depression and New Deal Programs (1930s)
The Great Depression hit rural areas like Calhoun County particularly hard. Falling cotton prices and widespread unemployment devastated the local economy. However, New Deal programs implemented by the federal government provided some relief. Projects like the construction of roads, schools, and other public works helped improve infrastructure and create jobs. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) also played a role in developing Moro Bay State Park, one of the county’s most notable landmarks.
Post-War Period and Modernization (1945–Present)
Post-War Economic Changes (1945–1960s)
After World War II, Calhoun County, like much of rural America, underwent significant changes. The timber industry remained strong, but mechanization reduced the need for labor, leading to population declines as people moved to urban areas in search of work. Agriculture continued to play a role in the local economy, but crop diversification became more common as farmers shifted away from cotton to other crops like soybeans and rice.
Civil Rights Era and Social Change (1950s–1960s)
The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s brought significant social changes to Calhoun County, as it did throughout the South. Although the county’s population was predominantly white, African Americans made up a sizable minority and faced segregation and discrimination in schools, workplaces, and public life. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent legislation helped to dismantle institutionalized segregation, though racial tensions persisted.
Economic Development and Population Decline (1970s–Present)
In the latter half of the 20th century, Calhoun County faced ongoing economic challenges. The decline of the timber industry, combined with the overall trend of urbanization, led to a steady population decline. Many young people left the county in search of better job opportunities in larger cities.
Despite these challenges, Calhoun County has maintained its rural character and continues to rely on agriculture and forestry as key components of its economy. Tourism has also become an increasingly important sector, with attractions like Moro Bay State Park drawing visitors to the area. The Ouachita River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.
21st Century Calhoun County
Today, Calhoun County remains one of the smallest and least populous counties in Arkansas. The county seat, Hampton, serves as the primary hub for government and commerce, while smaller towns like Thornton and Harrell retain their rural charm. Efforts to revitalize the local economy have focused on promoting tourism and preserving the county’s natural and historical assets.
Key Historical Landmarks in Calhoun County
Calhoun County Courthouse
- Location: Hampton, Arkansas
- Built: 1930
- The Calhoun County Courthouse is an iconic example of Depression-era architecture and serves as the administrative center of the county. It remains an important symbol of local government and justice.
Moro Bay State Park
- Established: 1979
- Location: Located along the Ouachita River, Moro Bay State Park is one of the county’s premier outdoor recreation destinations. The park offers camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities, along with a rich history tied to the Civilian Conservation Corps and New Deal programs of the 1930s.
Ouachita River
- The Ouachita River has been a critical natural resource throughout the county’s history. It served as a transportation route for Native Americans, European explorers, and early settlers and continues to play a central role in the county’s economy and recreational activities.
