History of Craighead County, Arkansas
Introduction to Craighead County
Craighead County, located in northeastern Arkansas, was founded on February 19, 1859. Named after State Senator Thomas Craighead, the county has a rich history tied to agriculture, commerce, and transportation. Known for its diverse landscape, including the Crowley’s Ridge and the fertile Mississippi Alluvial Plain, Craighead County played an important role in the development of Arkansas. Its county seat, Jonesboro, has evolved into a regional hub for education, healthcare, and industry. The county continues to thrive, balancing its agricultural roots with modern economic development and vibrant cultural institutions.
County Facts
- Founded: February 19, 1859
- Population (2020): Approximately 111,231
- Area: 713 square miles
- Area Code: 870
- ZIP Codes: 72401, 72404, 72416, 72437, 72447, 72450
- County Seat: Jonesboro (western district), Lake City (eastern district)
- Major Cities: Jonesboro, Lake City, Bono, Bay, Brookland
- Famous Landmarks: Arkansas State University, Craighead Forest Park, Crowley’s Ridge, Lake Frierson State Park
Pre-Settlement History and Native American Presence (Pre-1541)
Indigenous Peoples Before European Contact
Prior to European exploration, the region now known as Craighead County was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Quapaw. These indigenous peoples were part of complex societies that relied on agriculture, hunting, and trade for their livelihoods. They cultivated crops such as maize, beans, and squash and utilized the region’s rivers and rich natural resources for sustenance. The location along Crowley’s Ridge provided fertile land and strategic access to waterways like the St. Francis and Mississippi Rivers, important for trade and travel.
European Exploration and Settlement (1541–1830s)
Spanish and French Exploration (1541–1803)
The first European known to explore the region was Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto in 1541. Although de Soto’s expedition passed through parts of what is now northeastern Arkansas, there were no immediate settlements established. For the next century and a half, the area remained under the influence of French explorers and traders who claimed it as part of the Louisiana Territory in 1682. French fur trappers utilized the area’s waterways, establishing trading relationships with Native Americans.
The Louisiana Purchase (1803) and Early American Settlement (1803–1830s)
The region became part of the United States following the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. This transfer of land from France to the U.S. opened the area to American settlers. However, the rugged terrain of Crowley’s Ridge and the swampy Mississippi Delta region made early settlement challenging. By the 1830s, pioneers began moving into northeastern Arkansas, seeking opportunities for agriculture and trade along the rivers, but development remained slow.
Establishment and Growth of Craighead County (1830s–1860s)
The Creation of Craighead County (1859)
As settlers continued to move into the region, the need for a local government became apparent. On February 19, 1859, Craighead County was established from parts of Greene, Mississippi, and Poinsett counties. It was named after State Senator Thomas Craighead, a prominent figure in Arkansas politics at the time. The county was divided into two judicial districts, with Jonesboro as the county seat of the western district and Lake City as the seat of the eastern district. The division reflected the county’s geographical split between Crowley’s Ridge and the Mississippi Delta.
Early Economic Development (1830s–1860s)
Agriculture quickly became the backbone of the local economy. Early settlers farmed the fertile lands of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain, growing cotton, corn, and other crops. Logging also played a significant role in the county’s early economy, as the vast forests of Crowley’s Ridge provided timber for building and trade.
The Civil War and Reconstruction (1861–1877)
Craighead County During the Civil War (1861–1865)
Like much of Arkansas, Craighead County was heavily impacted by the Civil War. Although no major battles were fought in the county, many local men enlisted in the Confederate Army, and the war disrupted the county’s agricultural economy. The county’s strategic location along Crowley’s Ridge made it a key transportation route for both Confederate and Union forces, leading to occasional skirmishes and raids in the region.
The Civil War brought widespread economic hardship to Craighead County. Fields were left untended, infrastructure was damaged, and the loss of labor through enlistment and the end of slavery created significant challenges for local farmers.
Reconstruction and Economic Recovery (1865–1877)
The Reconstruction period that followed the Civil War was a time of rebuilding for Craighead County. The agricultural economy, especially cotton production, slowly recovered, though the abolition of slavery required a shift to sharecropping and tenant farming. Many former enslaved African Americans and poor white farmers entered into these labor agreements, working the land for a portion of the harvest.
During Reconstruction, railroads began expanding into northeastern Arkansas, opening new opportunities for economic development. The arrival of rail lines in Jonesboro in the 1870s was particularly important, linking the region to markets in other parts of Arkansas and the broader South.
Economic Growth and Industrialization (1880s–1930s)
The Rise of Jonesboro and Agricultural Expansion (1880s–1900s)
The late 19th century saw significant growth in Craighead County, particularly in Jonesboro, which rapidly became a center of commerce, trade, and transportation. The arrival of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway (commonly known as the Frisco Railway) in 1883 spurred the town’s development, transforming it into a regional hub for agricultural products such as cotton, timber, and livestock.
The fertile lands of the Mississippi Delta were increasingly utilized for large-scale cotton farming, and Craighead County’s economy became heavily reliant on this crop. In addition to cotton, farmers grew rice, soybeans, and other crops, taking advantage of the region’s rich alluvial soils.
Industrialization and Infrastructure Development (1900s–1930s)
As the county entered the 20th century, industrialization began to take hold. Jonesboro developed new industries, including sawmills, textile mills, and food processing plants. These industries provided jobs and supported the local economy, supplementing the dominant agricultural sector.
Infrastructure improvements, including the construction of new roads and rail lines, helped integrate Craighead County with the broader Arkansas economy. By the 1920s, the county was firmly established as a key agricultural and industrial center in northeastern Arkansas.
The Great Depression, World War II, and Post-War Growth (1930s–1960s)
The Impact of the Great Depression (1930s)
The Great Depression had a profound impact on Craighead County, as it did across the country. Agricultural prices plummeted, leaving many farmers in the region struggling to make a living. Cotton, the backbone of the local economy, was hit particularly hard, leading to widespread poverty and unemployment. Federal programs like the New Deal provided some relief through job creation and infrastructure projects, but the economic hardship persisted throughout the 1930s.
World War II and Economic Recovery (1941–1945)
The onset of World War II brought economic recovery to Craighead County. The war effort created new demand for agricultural products, and the county’s farmers benefitted from increased production of cotton, soybeans, and other crops. Additionally, many local residents found work in war-related industries or enlisted in the military, helping to revive the local economy.
Post-War Growth and Modernization (1945–1960s)
Following World War II, Craighead County experienced a period of sustained economic growth. Advances in agricultural technology, such as mechanization and the widespread use of pesticides, allowed farmers to increase crop yields and efficiency. At the same time, industrial development in Jonesboro continued to expand, with new factories and businesses providing jobs for the county’s growing population.
Education also became a focal point of post-war development. Arkansas State University (originally founded in 1909 as an agricultural school) grew into a major institution of higher education, attracting students from across the region and becoming one of the largest employers in the county.
Modern Era and Economic Diversification (1970s–Present)
Economic Diversification and Growth (1970s–1990s)
As Craighead County entered the late 20th century, it continued to diversify its economy. While agriculture remained important, new industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education began to play a larger role. Jonesboro, in particular, grew into a regional center for healthcare, with the establishment of hospitals and medical facilities providing employment and services for the surrounding area.
Arkansas State University expanded its academic programs and facilities, becoming a significant economic and cultural driver for the county. The university’s presence helped attract new businesses and industries to the area, contributing to the county’s overall growth.
Recent Developments and Continued Growth (2000s–Present)
In recent decades, Craighead County has continued to grow and modernize. The city of Jonesboro has seen steady population growth and is now one of the largest cities in Arkansas. The county’s economy has shifted further towards services, healthcare, and education, while agriculture remains a significant contributor to the rural areas of the county.
The development of parks and recreational facilities, such as Craighead Forest Park and Lake Frierson State Park, has enhanced the quality of life for residents and attracted visitors to the area. The annual Jonesboro BBQ Festival and the Arkansas State University Red Wolves athletic events have become important cultural and social gatherings for the community.
Key Historical Landmarks in Craighead County
Arkansas State University
- Established: 1909
- Location: Jonesboro
- Arkansas State University is one of the largest and most prominent public universities in Arkansas, offering a wide range of academic programs and contributing significantly to the local economy and culture.
Craighead Forest Park
- Established: 1937
- Location: Jonesboro
- Craighead Forest Park is a popular recreational area featuring hiking trails, a lake for fishing and boating, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It is a key attraction for residents and visitors alike.
Crowley’s Ridge
- Location: Runs through Craighead County
- Crowley’s Ridge is a unique geological formation that rises above the flat landscape of the Mississippi Delta. It provides scenic views, hiking opportunities, and is home to much of the county’s forested areas.
Lake Frierson State Park
- Established: 1975
- Location: Near Jonesboro
- Lake Frierson State Park is known for its fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities, offering residents and visitors a peaceful retreat in nature.
