History of Grant County, Arkansas
Introduction to Grant County
Grant County, located in the central part of Arkansas, was established on February 4, 1869. The county was named after Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and Union general during the Civil War. Known for its timber industry and agricultural roots, Grant County has grown into a region marked by its natural beauty and rich history. The county seat is Sheridan, a town that developed along the railroad and became a hub of commerce and trade. Today, Grant County remains a largely rural area, but it has seen steady growth due to its proximity to Little Rock.
County Facts
- Founded: February 4, 1869
- Population (2020): Approximately 18,950
- Area: 633 square miles
- Area Codes: 870
- ZIP Codes: 72029, 72050, 72150, 72129
- County Seat: Sheridan
- Major Cities: Sheridan, Poyen, Prattsville
- Famous Landmarks: Jenkins’ Ferry Battleground State Park, Grant County Museum, Saline River
Pre-European Settlement and Native American Presence (Pre-1800s)
Indigenous Peoples Before European Contact
Long before European settlers arrived in what is now Grant County, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Caddo and Quapaw. These indigenous groups thrived along the rivers and streams that crisscrossed the region, relying on the land for agriculture, hunting, and fishing. The Caddo were known for their mound-building and sophisticated social structures, while the Quapaw lived in semi-permanent villages along the riverbanks.
Although Native Americans had lived in the region for centuries, they were gradually displaced by European settlers through land treaties and conflict. By the time Arkansas became a U.S. territory, most indigenous peoples had been forced westward.
Early European Exploration and Territorial Days (1541–1836)
Spanish and French Influence (1541–1803)
The first Europeans to explore the region were the Spanish, with Hernando de Soto passing through Arkansas in 1541. De Soto’s expedition did not result in permanent settlement but did mark the beginning of European interest in the region. In the late 17th century, French explorers claimed the land as part of the Louisiana Territory. French traders traveled the rivers, including the Saline River, which runs through Grant County, establishing relationships with Native American tribes.
The region remained largely unsettled by Europeans until after the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which transferred the land from France to the United States and opened it up to American settlers.
American Settlement and Arkansas Statehood (1803–1836)
After the Louisiana Purchase, American settlers began to move into the Arkansas Territory. The area that would later become Grant County remained sparsely populated during the early 19th century, with settlers establishing small farms and homesteads. By 1836, Arkansas had become a state, and settlement continued to expand, particularly as new transportation routes were developed and the economy grew.
The region’s rich timber resources and proximity to the Saline River made it attractive for farming, logging, and trade, though it would take several decades for the population to grow significantly.
Establishment and Growth of Grant County (1836–1869)
The Creation of Grant County (1869)
Grant County was officially established on February 4, 1869, during the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. It was created from parts of Jefferson, Hot Spring, and Saline counties, in part to ease the administration of local governance in the rapidly growing region. The county was named after Ulysses S. Grant, who had led the Union Army to victory during the Civil War and was then serving as President of the United States.
Sheridan, located along the railroad lines, was selected as the county seat due to its central location and potential for economic growth. The town became the administrative and commercial center of the county, and its development was driven by agriculture and the timber industry.
The Civil War and Reconstruction (1861–1877)
Impact of the Civil War on Grant County (1861–1865)
Like much of Arkansas, the region that would become Grant County was heavily affected by the Civil War. Many local men joined the Confederate Army, and the area saw conflict as Union and Confederate forces moved through the state. The nearby Jenkins’ Ferry Battleground, located along the Saline River, was the site of a significant battle during the Red River Campaign in April 1864. This battle marked one of the final engagements of the war in Arkansas and had a lasting impact on the area.
The war disrupted the local economy, which was largely based on small-scale agriculture and timber. Farms were destroyed, and the infrastructure suffered due to military movements and the lack of labor.
Reconstruction and the Establishment of the County (1865–1877)
The post-war Reconstruction era was a challenging time for the region, as the economy struggled to recover. The creation of Grant County in 1869 was part of broader efforts to reorganize local governments and establish a sense of order in the aftermath of the war. The new county’s economy remained focused on agriculture, but the timber industry began to grow, providing new opportunities for economic development.
Despite the challenges of Reconstruction, the population of Grant County grew steadily, and towns such as Sheridan began to thrive as centers of trade and government.
Late 19th Century: The Rise of the Timber Industry (1877–1900s)
Timber Industry Expansion (1870s–1900s)
In the late 19th century, the timber industry became the dominant economic force in Grant County. The region’s dense forests, particularly its pine and hardwood timber, were in high demand as the nation expanded westward. Lumber mills were established throughout the county, and the construction of railroads allowed for the efficient transportation of timber to markets across the state and beyond.
The town of Sheridan benefited greatly from the timber boom, with logging companies setting up operations in and around the town. The railroads not only helped transport timber but also brought new settlers to the area, further contributing to the county’s growth.
Agricultural Growth and Diversification
While timber became the leading industry, agriculture remained an important part of Grant County’s economy. Small family farms continued to grow cotton, corn, and other staple crops, while livestock farming also expanded. The arrival of the railroads in the late 19th century made it easier for farmers to transport their goods to markets, helping the county’s agricultural sector thrive.
The Great Depression and World War II (1930s–1940s)
The Impact of the Great Depression (1930s)
The Great Depression of the 1930s had a significant impact on Grant County, as it did across much of the country. Timber prices plummeted, and many sawmills and logging operations closed, leaving many workers unemployed. Farmers also struggled during this period, as crop prices fell and many lost their land due to foreclosure.
New Deal programs provided some relief to the county. Federal projects, such as the construction of roads, bridges, and schools, created jobs and improved infrastructure. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) also played a role in reforesting areas that had been heavily logged, helping to restore the county’s natural resources.
World War II and Economic Recovery (1941–1945)
The onset of World War II brought new economic opportunities to Grant County. The demand for timber increased as the U.S. government sought materials for the war effort, leading to a resurgence in the timber industry. Many local men enlisted in the military, and women took on new roles in factories and other industries.
The war also spurred industrial growth, with new businesses emerging to support the war effort. After the war, Grant County’s economy continued to recover, with agriculture and timber remaining important sectors.
Post-War Growth and Modern Development (1950s–Present)
Post-War Economic Growth (1950s–1970s)
Following World War II, Grant County experienced steady economic growth. The timber industry continued to be a major employer, and new industries, including small manufacturing operations, emerged. The construction of new highways and infrastructure improvements made the county more accessible, attracting businesses and residents.
The town of Sheridan grew as the county’s commercial hub, with new schools, hospitals, and businesses being built to support the growing population. Agriculture remained an important part of the local economy, though it gradually became less dominant as the county diversified its industries.
Modern Grant County (1980s–Present)
In recent decades, Grant County has continued to evolve, balancing its rural heritage with modern economic development. While the timber industry remains an important part of the local economy, the county has also seen growth in manufacturing, retail, and healthcare sectors. Sheridan remains the county seat and the center of economic activity, with small towns like Poyen and Prattsville maintaining their rural charm.
Efforts to preserve the county’s natural beauty and historical landmarks have led to the promotion of tourism. Jenkins’ Ferry Battleground State Park, for example, attracts visitors interested in Civil War history, while the Saline River offers opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Key Historical Landmarks in Grant County
Jenkins’ Ferry Battleground State Park
- Established: 1961
- Location: Near Leola
- Jenkins’ Ferry Battleground State Park commemorates the site of a significant Civil War battle fought on April 30, 1864. The park offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the battle and its impact on the region.
Grant County Museum
- Location: Sheridan
- The Grant County Museum features exhibits on the county’s history, including its role in the Civil War, the timber industry, and local culture. The museum preserves artifacts and stories from the county’s past.
Saline River
- The Saline River runs through Grant County and has played a vital role in the region’s history. It was used by Native American tribes, early settlers, and during the Civil War. Today, it is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and nature activities.
