Historic Washington State Park

Washington
(click for map)

Interprets the town of Washington from 1824-1875; tours include the Confederate Capitol, Tavern Inn, re-created Blacksmith Shop where the first Bowie Knife is believed to have been made, Weapons Museum and several residences. The 19th century town, which was a popular stop along the Old Southwest Trail, includes a print museum, steam-powered cotton gin and the Williams Tavern Restaurant. The 1874 Courthouse serves as the visitor center the park also houses the Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives. The 1836 County Courthouse became the Confederate State Capitol when Confederate Governor Harris Flanagin moved his state government after Union forces captured Little Rock in September 1863. It is believed Davy Crockett, Sam Houston and Jim Bowie all stopped here on the way to the Alamo.