• Rifle Regiment arriving at Belle Point, 1817. Artwork by Michael Haynes

    Fort Smith

    National Historic Site AR,OK

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  • Road Construction I-540

    Traveling West on I-40? To avoid construction delays, do not take Exit 7 (I-540 S). Stay on I-40 west and take Exit 1 Dora. Stay on Hwy 64D for 6 miles and follow signs to Fort Smith. After crossing over the river, turn right on 4th ST & right on Garland. More »

Gallows

aerial photo of gallows reconstruction with 6 nooses hanging from cross bean

The gallows at Fort Smith served as an instrument of federal justice for twenty-three years, from 1873-1896. During those years 86 men were executed for capital offenses on the gallows. 

While the gallows that stands today is a reconstruction, visitors are still drawn to the place where these executions were conducted. Perhaps no other place in Fort Smith illicits such interest and strong feelings. 

To learn more about the history of the gallows as well as the myths and legends that have surrounded them, click on the links below.

Location of the Gallows

1873 Gallows

1886 Gallows

The Gallows: 1897-1957

The Gallows Today

Frequently Asked Questions about the Gallows

  • Outlaws Tried at Fort Smith Outlaws Tried at Fort Smith

    Stories of some of the outlaws tried in the court at Fort Smith. Read More

Did You Know?

foundation remains of first fort overlooking Arkansas River

The U.S. Army selected a spot overlooking the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers for the site of a fort. Soldiers from the Rifle Regiment arrived in 1817 and named the site Fort Smith after their commanding officer, Thomas A. Smith.