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

    Fort Smith

    National Historic Site AR,OK

Federal Court Era Places (1872-1896)

interior of courtoom as it looks today with Judge's bench in center of wall

Restored Courtroom of Judge Isaac C. Parker

Memories by Jody

Today visitors come to Fort Smith to see the federal courthouse used by Judge Isaac C. Parker from 1875-1889. However, the building was originally the military barracks and not ideally suited for a courthouse. The courtroom was small and not lavishly furnished. The former mess halls in the basement were converted into two large jail cells, nicknamed "Hell on the Border."

 
Click here to view a 96 page report (PDF) on the Fort Smith courtroom which includes historical information on the court and its original furnishings.
 
Also check out:

Stories from the Federal Court Era
People of the Federal Court Era
  • Postcards of Federal Court Era Buildings Postcards of Federal Court Era Buildings

    Postcards of Fort Smith federal courthouses and jails Read More

  • Gallows Gallows

    A reconstructed gallows stands on the site of the original structure. Read More

Did You Know?

Children and families helping to raise the garrison flag on Flag Day 2006

The garrison flag flown on the old military parade ground of Fort Smith National Historic Site bears 37 stars and is 20 x 30'.  On special occasions visitors assist in raising the huge flag.