"True Grit" History

Trip Start May 14, 2012
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Trip End Ongoing


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Flag of United States  , Arkansas
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

While traveling from South Haven, MS to Van Buren, Arkansas we were astounded at the caravan after caravan of utility and tree service trucks headed east.  It didn't take us long to realize that they must have been gearing up for the anticipated clean-up after Hurricane Sandy.  Quite a site to see so much relief on its way!

Fort Smith, Arkansas is right outside Van Buren, where we stayed.  Fort Smith is the inspiration for many Western films such as True Grit, Hang 'Em High, Rooster Cogburn, Lonesome Dove, just to name a few. Fort Smith National Historic Site evokes 80 years (1817-1896) of turbulent history on the western frontier; it was shaped by a diverse cast of colorful characters: soldiers, Indians, outlaws and lawmen.  According to "Hanging" Judge Isaac Parker in 1896, "The Territory was set apart for the Indians in 1828.  The government at that time promised them protection.  The only protection that has ever been afforded them was through the courts.  To us who have been located on this borderland has fallen the task of acting as protectors."

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