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1

The Old Frisco Depot

When the first train chugged into Van Buren, June 24, 1876, it signaled the beginning of a new era for this growing river town. By 1882, the city was linked with St. Louis, “in the iron bands of free and uninterrupted commerce.” Reflecting its importance as a railroad junction, the Frisco Passenger Depot was erected in 1901 and today serves as the Van Buren Visitors Center and point of embarkation for the Arkansas-Missouri Railroad Excursion Train. Restored with exacting detail, visitors today can stand on the open veranda or wander through the “smoking room” and the original waiting room.

2

Pemot Queenswear Store

H. C. Pemot, proprietor, opened his store in 1895, offering some finer items to discriminating clientele. Queenswear was an expensive Burmese glassware made of opaque glass in shades of yellow to pink, available in both glossy or satin finishes. Some pieces were decorated by hand or gilded. The formula for the glassware, patented by Frederick Shirley of Mount Washington Glass Company of Boston, contained gold which reacted with the fire to create the delicate blushes of color. Expensive in its own day, Queenswear is now highly collectible -- a simple tumbler can demand as much as $1,100. Customers could also have pictures framed or purchase lamps and other glassware at Pemot’s store.

3

Masonic Hall

From brothel to meeting hall to the magic of the airwaves, this 1895 three-story brick building has served Van Buren and its citizens in many different ways. In its early years, “ladies of the evening” held rendezvous on the third floor. Later, it became a meeting place for the Free and Accepted Masons and the Knights of Pythias. Private get-togethers changed to public entertainment in more recent times when a radio station began broadcasting from the second floor.

4

Edmondson & Britt Grocers

From fresh-baked goods and grocery items in this store originally run by Tom Edmondson and his partner, Fredrick Britt, this circa 1895 building was home to a variety of ventures in later years. County records indicate business “flourished” in its days as a combination furniture store/ funeral parlour.

5

Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company

The St. Louis brewery’s bubbles made for brisk business in old Van Buren -- $8,000 worth in 1897! The company’s famous “A and Eagle” trademark still caps the facade of this circa 1892 building. Two large copper scuppers and drain pipes are other distinguishing characteristics of the restored exterior, while inside you’ll find both the original tile floor and the elaborately decorated pressed metal ceiling so popular in that era.

6

Crawford County Bank Building

First class appointments, like marble mantles and lavatories, waterworks and electric lights were the marvel of Van Buren’s first bank, built in 1889. Maybe such plush surroundings are why the ghost of the bank’s first President is rumored to still share the second floor with the present owner. And he might not be the only spirit haunting this building -- in the twenties, when the third floor was a dance hall, an angry husband caught his wife with her lover and gunned him down.

7

Merrill Brothers Meat Market

Those were the days! Steak sold for 35 cents a pound, sides of beef and pork hung for display within the store’s huge arched setback, and a whirling ceiling fan stirred the air, keeping the flies at bay. The Merrill brothers must have enjoyed a steady business because this decorative building with elaborate brickwork originally ran the length that shops 514, 512 and 510 Main Street occupy today.

8

Ingeberg Books & Stationery

Stationery and books, musical instruments plus wallpaper and tobacco products were among this circa 1895 store’s varied offerings. Owned by Norway immigrant C.K. Ingeberg, the building’s original cast-iron columns are an integral part of the restored storefront which also features original brickwork above.

9

King Opera House

Productions are still staged in this opulent opera house. Built in 1891 as three separate commercial spaces, it was purchased and remodeled into a theater at the turn of the century by H.P. King. Jenny Lind and William Jennings Bryant were among the notable entertainers who performed here, reflecting its prominence in theater circles of the time. Over the years, it also housed both the Bob Burns and Victory Theaters. The ghost of a young traveling actor was shot by a local physician and is said to still haunt the stage.

10

Crawford County Courthouse

In 1877, arsonists virtually destroyed the 1842 Italianate-styled courthouse. Before it was rebuilt from the remaining brick walls, it became the center of a feud between the citizens of Van Buren and Alma -- the latter wanting the county seat moved to their town. Van Buren won out, however, and it was rebuilt with the addition of a front porch, side wings, a rear wing and the now well-known clock tower which was financed by donations from local citizens.

11

River Front Park

This fascinating mural history, painted by Van Buren High School art students on the back of the seawall, presents a colorful portrayal of the historic events that shaped the town and county.

12

St. Michael’s Catholic Church

In 1909 the lot at 13th and Cherry was purchased. A dwelling on the property served as a temporary church from 1909 to 1912.Construction of the church began in 1912. The cornerstone was laid on October 22, 1912 and the church was dedicated on May 14, 1913, by Bishop Morris.

13

Drennen Scott Historic Site

Overlooking the Arkansas River, the commanding Drennen-Scott House, initially the home of the Revolutionary War descendant, John Drennen and his family, is now a “working laboratory” for University of Arkansas Fort Smith students as they recreate the century-and-a-half-old home linked to The Trail of Tears, the Underground railroad and the Civil War. The house is also a museum that is open to the public.

14

Freedom Park

Public gathering spot with two pavilions for the farmers market or other activities, a stage for events, an interactive water feature designed for children to play and cool down during the hot and summer days, and beautiful green space. The theme for Freedom Park is derived from President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Four Freedoms” speech.

15

Veteran’s Memorial Plaza

Veteran's Memorial Plaza consists of the 5 branches of service seals along with an emergency responder seal. 5 branches of service flags, American flag and the POW/MIA flag. Two pools of water found on the upper flag platform flow down separate falls into one large pool of fountains. This symbolizes the individual branches of service coming together for a common purpose. Located in the middle of the main pool is the bronze battle cross symbolizing those who gave their all while serving their country. The Plaza is a place of reflection, respect and dignity.

Walking Tour Journey
15 Stops
1h
5km
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