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Making America's Best Idea Even Better
Fort Smith National Historic Sitesoldiers from 13 Kansas in formation on Garrison Ave.
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Fort Smith National Historic Site
People of Second Fort Smith (1838-1871)
 
Steamboat on Arkansas River with fort in background

Fort Smith NHS Collection

Fort Smith during Confederate occupation

In 1838, fourteen years after the first fort was closed, a new garrison was built at Fort Smith. A massive defensive fort was never needed, and Fort Smith eventually served as a supply depot. After the Civil War, the fort had served its usefulness and was ordered closed in 1871.
Sibley tents in front of Officers' Quarter during Civil War
Second Fort Smith
Confederate Attack on Fort Smith 1864
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foundation remains of first fort overlooking Arkansas River  

Did You Know?
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.

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Last Updated: July 28, 2006 at 18:08 EST