Exploring the Oldest Structures in Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas, including the town of Conway, is home to a rich heritage of historical sites and artifacts. From prehistoric mounds to early European settlements, this region offers a fascinating glimpse into its past. In this article, I will delve into some of the oldest human-built structures and notable artifacts in the area, providing insights into the history of the region.

The Ancient Mounds at Toltec Mounds

While the bedrock in Central Arkansas, particularly in Conway, is composed of sandstones and shales from the Pennsylvanian Upper Carboniferous formation, dating back millions of years, the oldest human-built structures in the area are much more recent. The Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park, located about an hour's drive from Conway, is home to some of the most significant prehistoric Native American structures in the region. These mounds were built by the Plum Bayou Culture, dating back to around 600 CE. The mounds themselves are a testament to the sophisticated engineering and communal life of the ancient Native Americans who lived here.

The Settlement at Cadron: An Early European Pioneer Community

Before the formation of towns like Conway, there was an earlier European settlement in the area. Cadron Settlement, founded in 1818, was the first European settlement in central Arkansas. Located a few miles west of Conway, Cadron was a significant early settlement. Despite its early start, Cadron barely made it past its foundation as a small village. The Little Rock to Cantonment Gibson Road, completed in 1828, passed through Cadron, connecting Little Rock to Fort Smith on the western edge of the state. The Butterfield Overland Mail followed this route, providing a vital link between Memphis and San Francisco from 1858 to 1860. However, despite its strategic importance, Cadron did not become a major town.

Historical Accounts and the Pioneer Experience

The early life in Cadron was recorded by an English naturalist named Thomas Nuttall, who traveled through the area in 1819. In his journal account, Nuttall described the settlement and its people with a touch of disappointment. He noted the potential for future growth and development but also highlighted the challenges:

There is scarcely a hundred yards together of level ground and the cove in which Mr. McIlmery lives is almost impenetrably surrounded by tiresome and lofty hills broken into ravines with small rills of water. Nor was he impressed by the settlers around Cadron: 'It is to be regretted that the widely scattered state of the population in this territory is but too favourable to the spread of ignorance and barbarism.'

Nuttall also mentioned Native mounds and stone piles in the area, which he believed were built by a different culture. These structures, though not officially identified, could be some of the oldest human-made structures near Cadron.

Modern Preservation and Legacy

Today, the site of Cadron Settlement has been transformed into Cadron Settlement Park, offering hiking and mountain biking trails. The park preserves some of the area's natural and historical heritage. The old blockhouse, which served as a trading post and refuge, has been replicated, giving visitors a taste of the area's past. Unfortunately, the original buildings of Cadron Settlement no longer stand, but the county's efforts to preserve the area are commendable.

The Conway Museum and Dogtrot House

While most of the oldest structures in the vicinity of Conway date from the 19th century, the Conway Museum has a house on its grounds that dates back to around 1850. This dogtrot house, with its unique design, provides a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the area. The two squarish rooms connected by a common roof form a covered breezeway, providing cooling during the hot summer months. These structures, while not as ancient as the Native mounds, are a precious reminder of the region's early history and the architectural styles of the time.

As we explore the oldest human-built structures in Central Arkansas, it's important to remember the rich tapestry of history that shapes our understanding of the region. From the ancient mounds built by the Plum Bayou Culture to the early European settlements like Cadron, the area holds many stories waiting to be discovered.