Anarchy in Arkansas: The Brooks-Baxter War at 150

In the spring of 1874, a dispute between rival factions of Arkansas’s Republican party over the fraud-plagued results of the 1872 gubernatorial election erupted in spasms of armed violence that made the eyes of the nation turn toward the state. Known as the Brooks-Baxter War, it is ill-remembered and even less understood by many Arkansas citizens, even though its aftermath continues to influence the state’s governance to this day.

Join us Saturday, April 20, from 10am to 2pm, as the Old State House Museum, the Arkansas State Archives and Historic Arkansas Museum present “Anarchy in Arkansas,” an interpretation and commemoration of the Brooks-Baxter War.

The program will be held at the Old State House and includes presentations by Arkansas historians, interspersed with readings taken from contemporary journalism and correspondence, telling the story of “Arkansas’s very own Civil War” in the words of those who were there. The venue is particularly appropriate, since much of the conflict took place within or nearby the graceful onetime state capitol.

Registration is $10.00 per person and includes a boxed lunch.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

For more info, contact the Old State House Museum’s Georganne Sisco, 501-324-8641, or Georganne.Sisco@arkansas.gov .

No ticket necessary, a registration list will be kept at the door.

Old State House Commission Meeting

Old State House Museum Commission Meeting

The Great American Eclipse at the Old State House Museum

The Division of Arkansas Heritage invites visitors and residents to experience the Great American Eclipse at its Little Rock museums.

Thursday, April 4
Enjoy events hosted by the Old State House Museum, including a lecture by Daniel Cockrell, museum director.

Friday, April 5
Hands-on activities

Saturday, April 6
Live band and solo performances  

Monday, April 8
Eclipse Watch Party Monday, April 8.

Eclipse-related merchandise will be available for sale during business hours.
“We encourage the community to enjoy this celestial phenomenon at one of our museums,” said Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. “These events are family-friendly and sure to offer a host of fun activities for all.”
All events are free and ISO-certified glasses will be available to guests while supplies last.
“The upcoming Great American Eclipse presents a wonderful opportunity for Arkansas, promising a significant economic and tourism boost across the state this spring,” said Marty Ryall, director of the Division of Arkansas Heritage. “Guests and locals alike are encouraged to enjoy the family-friendly activities at our museums to not only experience the Eclipse, but also unique aspects of the state’s heritage.”

Old State House Commission Meetings

Lunch is provided