WASHINGTON, Ark. – Historic Washington State Park will open a new free exhibit entitled “Washington, Arkansas: Celebrating 200 Years” on Saturday, June 22, and will run until December 31, 2024. The exhibit will be in the park’s 1874 Visitor Information Center, 100 SW Morrison St., Washington. 

The town of Washington was established in 1824 when Arkansas was still a territory. Located on the Southwest Trail that connected St. Louis to Texas it witnessed many people of all backgrounds go through its borders or the make the town their home. Later in the 20th century, it used heritage tourism and historic preservation to help continue the town for future residents. Artifacts and information about the history of Washington, Arkansas over 200 years will be on display as part of the exhibit. 

Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park, located in Washington, Arkansas, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Mondays. The park is a restoration village interpreting the historic Arkansas town in the 19th century. Daily tours are provided to over 15 historic sites and museums, such as the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop. To learn more, visit HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com or call 870-983-2684.  

Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.