Lee County, Arkansas

Date: 17 Apr 1873
Location: Lee County, Arkansas
Surnames/tags: arkansas us_history united_states

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Contents 1 Welcome to the Lee County, Arkansas! 1.1 Maps and Boundaries 1.2 Communities 1.2.1 Cities 1.2.2 Towns 1.2.3 Minor Civil Divisions (MCDs) 1.2.4 Unincorporated Communities 1.2.5 Townships: 1.3 Historical Communities 1.4 Military History 1.5 Historical Landmarks 1.6 National Protected Areas 1.7 Notables 1.8 Records and Resources 1.9 Sources

Welcome to the Lee County, Arkansas!

Lee County is a county located in the eastern part of the U.S. state of Arkansas. It is the 72nd county and was created on April 17, 1873, from parts of Crittenden, Monroe, Phillips, and St. Francis counties. The county is named after Confederate General Robert Edward Lee.

The area now Lee County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Quapaw and the Osage. The first European explorer to visit the area was probably Hernando de Soto, who led an expedition through the region in 1541.

In the early 19th century, Lee County was part of the Louisiana Purchase and was part of the Arkansas Territory when it was created in 1819. Settlement of the area began in the 1820s, and by the 1850s, cotton plantations had become the dominant economic force in the region.

During the Civil War, Lee County was part of the Confederate States of America. It was the site of several skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Helena in 1863, which was fought in nearby Phillips County.

After the war, Lee County, like many other parts of the South, struggled to recover from the devastation of the conflict. However, by the turn of the 20th century, the county's economy had rebounded, thanks in large part to the development of the timber industry.

Today, Lee County is home to several small towns, including Marianna, which is the county seat. Agriculture and timber remain important industries in the area, and the county is also home to several state parks and wildlife management areas.

Maps and Boundaries

Lee County is located in the eastern part of the state of Arkansas. It is situated in the Delta region of Arkansas and is part of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain.

Lee County is bordered by five other counties:

• St. Francis County Arkansas to the north
• Crittenden County, Arkansas to the northeast
• Tunica County, Mississippi to the east
• Phillips County, Arkansas to the south
• Monroe County, Arkansas to the west

Communities

Cities

Towns

Aubrey	Haynes	LaGrange
Marianna	Moro	Rondo

Minor Civil Divisions (MCDs)

Beck	Bledsoe	Big Creek Corner	Canaan
Cody	Council	Cypress Corner	Dansby
Felton	Four Forks	Garrett Grove	Gassett
Gill	Greer Place	Haleside	Holub Crossing
Hopper	Jeffersonville	Nash Corner	New Hope
New Salem	Oak Forest	Park Place	Peters
Phillips Bayou	Raggio	Reese	Scott Valley
Smith Corner	Soudan	South Plain	Spencer Place
Spring Creek	Thomasville	Tongin	Vanness Crossing
Vineyard	Westor	Whitehall	Winona
Wrightland

Unincorporated Communities

Brickeys

Kokomo

Midway

Monroe

Townships:

Bear Creek	Big Creek	Council	Fleener
Hampton	Hardy	Independence	Oak Forest
Richland	St. Francis	Spring Creek	Texas
Union	Walnut

Historical Communities

Askew	Clifton	Lee	Lesser
Phillips	Seelig	Sylarsville	Thomas
Walnut Blend

Military History

The area that is now part of Lee County, Arkansas, played a role in the Civil War, although it wasn't officially established until after the war. During the war, this region, which encompassed parts of Crittenden, Monroe, Phillips, and St. Francis Counties, witnessed limited military engagements. The skirmishes at LaGrange on May 1, 1863, and Marianna and La Grange on November 8, 1862, were two notable events. LaGrange, now located in Lee County, saw action in 1863 as part of Phillips County, while the skirmish at Marianna and La Grange in 1862 occurred in Phillips County, not overlapping with the present Lee County boundaries. Although the area didn't witness major battles, these skirmishes illustrate the broader wartime context in the region, with military activities occurring in proximity to what would later become Lee County after the war's conclusion.

Historical Landmarks

Elks Club

• Elks Club - Built in 1911 by S. A. Kedy, a local builder. It was built by the Benevolent and Protective order of Elks, Lodge number 1178, to serve as a meeting house for their activities. The Elks Club is a significant structure which has played a key role in the social activities of Marianna, Arkansas. It is often used to house political rallies and campaign functions. Many prominent Arkansas politicians have spoken to audiences in the building, such as Ben Hooks of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Marianna Confederate Monument

• Robert E. Lee Monument - also known as the Marianna Confederate Monument is a United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC) memorial built to honor Lee County's Confederate veterans. It was dedicated in 1910, sponsored and funded by D. C. Govan Chapter No. 781 of the UDC and dedicated to the "loving memory of Lee County's Confederate soldiers."
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Lee County Courthouse

• Lee County Courthouse - located on 15 East Chestnut Street in Marianna, Arkansas. It was built in 1936. The last construction was designed by George Mahan Jr. of Memphis, Tennessee with Everett Woods and built in the Colonial Revival and Art Deco style. The building was funded with help from the Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works.

Louisiana Purchase Survey Marker

• Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park - The park encompasses 37.5 acres of forested wetlands and commemorates the intial point from which the lands acquired throug the Louisiana Purchase were subsequently surveyed. The marker was erected in 1926 by the L'Anguille Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The initial suveryor was done in 1815.

Marianna Commercial Historic District

• Marianna Commercial Historic District - encompassess the historic downtown commercial area of Marianna, Arkansas. Some of the buildings date back to 1880 including the elaborate Italianate Hayes & Drake building.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Marianna Depot Station

• Marianna Depot Station - The station built by the Missouri-Pacific Railroad is a single-story, brick masonry freight and passenger railroad depot designed in the Mediterranean style. Built in 1915 as part of Missouri-Pacific Railroad's ambitious campaign to expand their network. It is associated with the rapid railroad growth and development in Arkansas durin the 1870s to 1940s.
  
  
  
  

Marianna City Hall

• Marianna City Hall- originally built to house the Marianna National Guard Armory, it is a two-story, brick-masonry building constructed in 1929 and designed in a restrained interpretation of the Art Deco style. It still today, is a reminder of the state's military hertiage and a living memorial to the men and women who have stood ready to serve.
  
  
  
  
  
  

Marianna Waterworks

• Marianna Waterworks - it includes an office building, two clear wells, one wellhouse, and aeration chamber, a water wheel, and a brick outbuilding and steel watertower. The main building was constructed in 1936-37 with funding from the Public Works Administration, a Depression-era jobs program. The building is a red brick structure in the popular Spanish Revival style during that period.
  
  

J. M. McClintock House

• J. M. McClintock House - the house was designed by Charles L. Thompson in 1912. It is a characteristic bungalow style house.
  
  
  
  
  
  

W.S. McClintock House

• W. S. McClintock House - is a historic two-story wood-frame Classical Revival sytle building designed by Charles L. Thompson. It was built in 1912.
  
  
  
  
  
  

John A. Plummer House

• John A. Plummer House - it is a two-story, frame residence constructed in 1900. It is best described as a transition between the Colonial Revival and Queen Ann styles.
  
  
  
  
  

National Protected Areas

St. Francis National Forest - St. Francis National Forest is a 22,600-acre forest located in Lee County, Arkansas, in the southeastern part of the state. The forest is managed by the United States Forest Service and was established in 1960.The forest is named after the St. Francis River, which runs through the area. The forest is characterized by its mixed hardwood and pine forests, with a variety of ecosystems, including bottomlands, swamps, and upland forests. The forest is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and numerous bird species.

St. Francis National Forest offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. The forest has several campgrounds and picnic areas, as well as trails for hiking and mountain biking. The St. Francis National Forest also has several waterways, including the St. Francis River, where visitors can fish for a variety of species, including catfish, crappie, and bass.

In addition to recreational opportunities, the St. Francis National Forest is also an important source of timber and other forest products. The forest is managed using sustainable forestry practices to ensure the health of the ecosystem and the long-term productivity of the forest.

Notables

• Paul Burrus Benham Jr, born on February 27, 1921 in Memphis, Tennessee. He is notable for his contributions as a state legislator from Arkansas. Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, Benham pursued education at Vanderbilt University. His service as the president of the Mississippi River Railway Commission further underscores his involvement in regional governance. While specific details of his legislative accomplishments may vary, Benham's role as state legislator reflects his commitment to public service and his engagement in transportation and infrastructure, particularly concerning the Mississippi River Railway. His work and leadership in these capacities contribute to his lasting legacy in Arkansas state politics.
• John Haywood Cross Jr, born on January 27, 1925 in Haynes, Arkansas. He is notably remembered as an American pastor and Civil Rights activist. His significance stems from his role as the pastor of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, during the racially motivated bombing of the church in 1963. The tragic incident claimed the lives of four young girls and became a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, drawing national attention to the issues of racial segregation in the South. Following the bombing, Cross dedicated much of his life to the cause of racial reconciliation in the region, contributing to the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality. His commitment to justice and activism makes John H. Cross Jr. a notable figure in the history of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Flavy Charles Flowers, born on June 28, 1937, in Marianna, Arkansas. He was a notable American football player known for his achievements with the Ole Miss Rebels at the University of Mississippi. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997, Flowers' prowess on the field garnered recognition. His significance extends beyond college football, as he navigated a pivotal moment in his career in December 1959. Despite signing with the NFL's New York Giants, Flowers chose to keep the contract secret until January 2, 1960, to maintain eligibility for the Sugar Bowl. Subsequently, he opted for a more lucrative offer from the AFL's Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers, leading to legal disputes with the Giants. Flowers' career, marked by his talent and strategic decisions, leaves a lasting impact on the sport. He passed away on December 7, 2014, at the age of 77, after battling a prolonged illness.
• William Hines Furbush, who lived from 1839 to September 3, 1902, is a notable figure for his diverse roles and contributions in Arkansas during the 19th century. Furbush's multifaceted career included stints as a photographer, state legislator, sheriff, lawyer, and newspaper editor. His service in the Union Army during the American Civil War adds a significant layer to his biography, reflecting the complex historical context of the time. Furbush's intriguing post-war experience, including a brief period in Liberia before returning to the United States, showcases his ventures beyond the domestic realm. His life story encapsulates a dynamic era in American history, marked by war, political involvement, and exploration beyond national borders.
• John Marshall Hewitt, born on July 22, 1841 in Frankfort, Kentucky. He holds significance as an American politician, notably serving as a member of the Arkansas House of Representatives from 1881 to 1889. Aligned with the Democratic Party, Hewitt played a role in shaping legislative decisions and policies during his tenure in the state government. While specific details of his political contributions may vary, his service as a representative reflects his commitment to public service and the democratic process in late 19th-century Arkansas. Hewitt's role in state politics marks him as a notable figure in regional governance during his era.
• Floyd Jones, born on July 21, 1917, in Marianna, Arkansas. He left an indelible mark on the American blues scene as a singer, guitarist, and songwriter. Renowned one of the pioneering electric blues artists to record in Chicago post-World War II, Jones' contributions are considered classics within the Chicago blues genre. His significance extends beyond musical prowess, with notable hits like "On the Road Again," which became a top 10 success for Canned Heat in 1968. Noteworthy for his time, Jones infused economic and social themes into his blues repertoire, addressing issues such as labor strikes in "Stockyard Blues," the challenges of "Hard Times," and reflections on education in "Schooldays." Floyd Jones remains a notable figure in the history of blues, celebrated for his musical innovation and socially conscious songwriting.
• Warren George Harding Lee, professionally known as Lee Jackson, was born on August 18, 1921 in Gill, Arkansas. He holds notable recognition as an American Chicago blues guitarist, bass guitarist, singer, and songwriter. His contributions mark Jackson's musical legacy to recordings with various prominent blues musicians, including Johnny Shines, Willie Dixon, Jimmy Reed, J. B. Hutto, Sunnyland Slim, Lacy Gibson, and Little Walter. While he released solo recordings like "Lonely Girl" (1974), Jackson's enduring impact is often attributed to his influential playing style. His collaborative work and versatile musical talent have left an indelible mark on the Chicago blues scene, earning him recognition among aficionados and contributing to the genre's rich history.
• Philip Doddridge McCulloch Jr, born on June 23, 1851 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. He is notable for his service as a U.S. Representative from Arkansas. His role in the national legislative body signifies his impact on the political landscape during his tenure. While specific details of his contributions may vary, McCulloch's representation of Arkansas in the U.S. House of Representatives ranks him among the individuals who played a part in shaping federal policies and legislation. His service as a representative reflects his commitment to public service and his role in advocating for the interests of the people of Arkansas on the national stage.
• Robert Keith McFerrin Sr, born on March 19, 1921 in Marianna, Arkansas. He is notably recognized as an American operatic baritone and a trailblazer in classical music. McFerrin achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African-American man to sing at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. His vocal talents were widely praised, with critics like Albert Goldberg describing his voice as a "baritone of beautiful quality" with a top range reminiscent of a tenor's brilliance. Beyond his groundbreaking achievements, his role further enriches McFerrin's legacy as the father of Grammy Award-winning vocalist Robert McFerrin Jr., renowned as Bobby McFerrin, adding a familial dimension to his impact on the world of music.
• Oscar Polk Oscar Polk, born on December 25, 1899, in Marianna, Arkansas. He was a notable American actor primarily recognized for his portrayal of the character Pork in the iconic film "Gone with the Wind" (1939). Polk's performance as the loyal servant was significant for several reasons. His portrayal added depth and authenticity to the film, capturing the complex dynamics of the Southern society depicted in the story. "Gone with the Wind" remains a classic in American cinema, and Polk's contribution as Pork contributed to the film's impact and enduring cultural significance. His work reflects a historical context in film that continues to be studied and appreciated.
• Patrick T. Price was born sometime from 1845 to 1847. He is notable for his role as state legislator in Arkansas, representing Lee County in the Arkansas House of Representatives in 1877 as a member of the Republican Party. In a historical context marked by post-Civil War reconstruction, Price's position as a Republican legislator in the South carries significance. The fact that he served alongside Crockett Brown, another representative from Lee County, adds to the historical narrative of political dynamics during that era. While specific details of his legislative achievements may vary, Price's presence as a Republican in a Southern state legislature during a time of political transition underscores his noteworthy role in shaping the post-war political landscape in Arkansas.
• Minor Shelton Watson, born on December 22, 1889 in Marianna, Arkansas. He is a notable figure in entertainment, particularly as a prominent character actor. With a prolific career spanning from 1913 to 1956, Watson left an indelible mark with his appearances in 111 movies. His filmography includes noteworthy productions such as "Boys Town" (1938), "Yankee Doodle Dandy" (1942), "Kings Row" (1942), "Guadalcanal Diary" (1943), "Bewitched" (1945), "The Virginian" (1946), and "The Jackie Robinson Story" (1950). Watson's versatility and memorable performances in various films contribute to his lasting legacy in the cinematic landscape, solidifying his status as a respected and prolific character actor of his time.
• Arthur Jean Wilker Yarbrough, born on August 22, 1901, in Marianna, Arkansas. He is notable as an American film director who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Yarbrough's career spanned several decades, and he is remembered for his work in directing films. His filmography includes various genres, showcasing his versatility and skill behind the camera. While he may not be as widely recognized as some Hollywood luminaries, Yarbrough's impact on the world of film endures, and his body of work contributes to the rich tapestry of American cinema.

Records and Resources

• United States Resources
• Arkansas State Genealogy Resources
• Wikipedia for Lee County, Arkansas
• FamilySearch - Lee County, Arkansas
• Encyclopedia of Arkansas - Lee County

Sources

• Arkansas Municipal League, Lee County, Arkansas, (n.d.). "Lee County, Arkansas Cities." Accessed 13 Jan 2024.
• Hearthstone Legacy Publications, (n.d.). "Lee County, Arkansas History and Genealogy." Accessed 13 Jan 2024.
• HomeTownLocator, Arkansas Gazetter, (n.d.). "Lee County AR Cities, Towns, Neighborhoods." Accessed 13 Jan 2024.
• Bureau of the Census. “Lee County section of Arkansas Minor Civil Divisions map.” in the United States Census of Population 1930.42, Washington, D.C., U.S. Government Printing Office, 1934.
• Christ, Mark K., Centeral Arkansas Library System, Encyclopedia of Arkansas, last updated 11 Oct 2022. "Skirmish at LaGrange." Accessed 13 Jan 2024.
• Worthan, Jacob, Hot Springs, Arkansas, Encyclopedia of Arkansas, last updated on 1 Nov 2023. "Skirmishes at Marianna and LaGrange." Accessed 13 Jan 2024.