Located
in Prairie County along the White River,
DeValls Bluff was incorporated in 1866, although Jacob DeVall settled the
location around 1850 according to county records. At the beginning of the Civil
War in April 1861, the area was simply a settlement with a store, a house
and a boat landing.
After
Little Rock fell to Union forces in September 1863, DeValls Bluff would often
be used as a port in instances when the Arkansas River
was too low to navigate. After realizing the importance the town played in
transporting troops, Union forces heavily fortified the port at DeValls Bluff
until the end of the war. Federal troops were also stationed at DeValls Bluff
throughout the remainder of the conflict.
Following
the end of the Civil War, the town’s population began to decline. In the years
that followed, railroads caused a downturn in river traffic.
Agriculture
is a major part of the economy of DeValls Bluff. The geology and the soil of
the region are especially conducive to rice farming.
The
town’s proximity to the White River, Wattensaw
Wildlife Management Area and Cache
River National Wildlife Refuge make it a haven for anglers, hunters,
boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
On
a culinary note, DeValls Bluff has received regional, national and
international attention for several of the town’s eateries. Craig’s
Brothers Café has received raves for their barbecue, ribs, and sauce. Ms.
Lena’s Pies and the Family
Pie Shop are both touted for their sweet confections.
DeValls Bluff is located approximately 50 miles east of Little Rock and 60 miles northeast of Pine Bluff.