Fort Smith is a city located in western Arkansas along the Arkansas River. With a population of over 80,000 residents, it is the second largest city in the state. Fort Smith has a rich history and economy and offers residents and visitors alike a unique blend of frontier settlement, Old West heritage, nature and urban amenities.
Population
According to the Wikipedia page for Fort Smith, the city had a population of 80,268 residents as of the 2020 US Census. Fort Smith is the second most populous city in Arkansas after Little Rock. The city serves as the county seat of Sebastian County and is the principal city of the Fort Smith metropolitan area which encompasses parts of Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Fort Smith’s population has remained relatively steady over the past couple of decades, hovering around 80,000 residents. However, the city has seen diversification in terms of race and ethnicity. In 1990, over 15% of residents identified as Hispanic or Latino. By 2010, that percentage had grown to over 25% Hispanic and Latino residents.
History
Fort Smith was founded in 1817 as a military post along the Arkansas River. The small frontier settlement served as an important stop along the historic Trail of Tears during the forced relocation of Native American tribes to Oklahoma. It was incorporated as a town in 1842.
During the late 1800s, Fort Smith emerged as a regional transportation hub and important border town along the boundary between Arkansas and Indian Territory. The city became known as a wild frontier town where outlaws often hid from the law. Notable Old West figures like Judge Isaac Parker and his “Hanging Court” were based in Fort Smith during this period.
Today, Fort Smith embraces its unique history through historic sites, museums and cultural festivals. The city is home to the Fort Smith National Historic Site which preserves the old frontier fort and tells the story of Fort Smith’s role in westward expansion.
Economy and Major Employers
Some of the major industries and employers in Fort Smith today include:
- Manufacturing – Companies like Rheem, Gerber, Planters Peanuts, Mars Petcare and Graphic Packaging have large facilities in the city.
- Healthcare – Major regional hospitals such as Mercy Hospital and Sparks Health System are top employers in Fort Smith.
- Transportation and Distribution – The city’s location along the Arkansas River has long made it a transportation and distribution hub. Companies like ArcBest Corporation (parent of ABF Freight), Glatfelter and Golden Living all have a presence.
- Government Services – As the seat of Sebastian County, Fort Smith is home to many government offices and facilities.
In addition to large manufacturers and corporations, small businesses across many sectors are a vital part of the Fort Smith economy. The region benefits from a skilled workforce and educational institutions like the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith that support industries and commerce.
To learn more about the Fort Smith economy and major employers, visit the Fort Smith economic development website.
Tourism and Landmarks
Fort Smith embraces its unique heritage and offers many cultural attractions and landmarks for visitors to enjoy, including:
- Fort Smith National Historic Site – The original 19th century frontier fort and park along the Arkansas River.
- Judge Isaac C. Parker Federal Courthouse – Also known as the “Hanging Judge” courthouse where Parker presided over the Western District of Arkansas in the late 1800s.
- Miss Laura’s Social Club – Former brothel, now a historic site providing a glimpse into Fort Smith’s wilder days.
- Fort Smith Trolley Museum – Museum with historic trolleys visitors can ride.
- Riverfront Amphitheater – Venue for concerts and events with views of the Arkansas River.
In addition to historic attractions, the Fort Smith area also offers outdoor recreation along the river and in the Ouachita Mountains, shopping, dining and cultural institutions like the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.
Sports
Residents of Fort Smith enjoy an active sports culture focused around high school and college athletics. The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Lions compete in Division II college athletics. The city is also home to the Fort Smith Northside Grizzlies, Southside Rebels and other top high school athletic programs.
Since 1934, the university has hosted the annual Collegiate Basketball Classic held over the holidays each December. The tournament brings top NCAA Division II men’s and women’s basketball teams to Fort Smith.
Beyond basketball, residents are passionate supporters of local football, baseball, softball, soccer and other sports teams from junior high through high school and college. Sporting events, rivalries and traditions are an important part of the social fabric of Fort Smith.
City Government
Fort Smith utilizes the council-manager form of municipal government. The city is led by an elected mayor and eight city directors who appoint a city administrator to manage day-to-day operations. Key city departments and services include:
- Police Department
- Fire Department
- Utilities Department (electricity, water, sewer)
- Sanitation Department (trash and recycling)
- Streets and Traffic Control Department
- Parks and Recreation Department
To learn more about city government services and departments in Fort Smith, explore the city’s website.
Connecting with Fort Smith
For news and updates on everything happening in Fort Smith, follow the city’s Facebook page. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to explore and learn about the city’s unique culture and heritage.