Helena in Phillips County, Arkansas — The American South (West South Central)
The river connects communities
A far-reaching impact
The inland waterway system includes about 12,000 miles of navigable channel. Together, they offer a reliable alternative to road, rail and air transportation. They:
• Move commerce to and from 38 states
• Serve industrial and agricultural centers
• Facilitate imports and exports at gateway post on the Gulf of Mexico
The Kate Adams was a famous steamboat that made twice weekly stops, at Helena, caring passengers, mail, and freight. Here the boat is grounded at Helena, as the river had gone down suddenly.
Did you know?
Each steamboat has a unique whistle.
William Short, a cotton broker in Helena, built a stately mansion for himself in 1904. The home was just a few blocks from the river. Before long, Mr. Short could distinguish one steam whistle from the next, making it easy to tell when a boat that shipped cotton was near.
On the banks of the river
Helena is the only town between Memphis and Vicksburg that sits directly on the river. Passenger vessels often stop in the town long recognized for its scenic beauty. Inland river vessels usually make stops daily to drop off and pick-up barges. "Helena occupies one of the prettiest situations of the Mississippi"
-Mark Twain
In Life on the Mississippi
Going green
Inland river towboats and tugboats that travel along the nation’s waterways generate fewer emissions than trains and trucks.
Relish the river
The Lower Mississippi River is absolute paradise. Enjoy an afternoon canoeing, kayaking or riding a stand up paddle board. Of course, be prepared, and make sure you have the right equipment. (Novice paddlers should seek instructions on big river safety and navigation or hire a local guide.) You can also enjoy a variety of other outdoor pursuits. Go camping, fishing or beach combing. Have a peaceful picnic and, when the sun goes down. Gaze into a stunning star-lit sky.
Did you know?
Over the course of a year, water levels on the Mississippi River can rise and fall as much as 50 feet. When the river is low, water tends to be calmer and more serene. When the river is high, it becomes very powerful and turbulent.
The currents can be fast
The river is a powerful body of water, and conditions can change rapidly. Strong currents can pull even a very experienced swimmer into harm’s way. Do not underestimate the strength of the mighty river. Always treat it with reverence and respect.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Environment • Industry & Commerce • Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 34° 31.467′ N, 90° 35.06′ W. Marker is in Helena, Arkansas, in Phillips County. Marker is on Elm Street. The marker is located along the boardwalk in Helena River Park. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Helena AR 72342, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. River Birds (here, next to this marker); Those who have come before (here, next to this marker); The Mississippi River Defines Helena (here, next to this marker); The Helena Bridge (here, next to this marker); Does the river ever flood? (here, next to this marker); Explore Our Top Outdoor Destinations (here, next to this marker); The Blues Trail: Mississippi to Helena (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); KFFA 1360 Helena (about 700 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Helena.
Also see . . . Helena River Park. Helena is the only downtown on the Mississippi River for the 300 miles between Memphis and Vicksburg. The River Park features a 60 foot boat ramp, one of the largest public access ramps on the lower Mississippi. A boardwalk takes visitors right to the edge of the river, with interpretive panels that explain some of the local ecosystem and Civil War history. (Submitted on September 1, 2017, by Sandra Hughes Tidwell of Killen, Alabama, USA.)
Credits. This page was last revised on August 27, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 1, 2017, by Sandra Hughes Tidwell of Killen, Alabama, USA. This page has been viewed 181 times since then and 10 times this year. Last updated on July 26, 2023, by Carl Gordon Moore Jr. of North East, Maryland. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 1, 2017, by Sandra Hughes Tidwell of Killen, Alabama, USA. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.