Fort Smith in Sebastian County, Arkansas — The American South (West South Central)
Officer’s Garden
Fort Smith National Historic Site
— National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior —
Photographed By Denise Boose, July 13, 2012
1. Officer’s Garden Marker
"The walls were almost hidden by a wealth of vines and foliage, and the enclosed space was as green as nature and care could make it. Beautiful flower beds were kept well tended by the soldiers and added greatly to the beauty of the grounds."
Mary Rutherford Cravens recalling Fort Smith in the 1850s
A garden provided many benefits to the soldiers and their families at Fort Smith. Fresh vegetables in the garden behind the officer’s quarters provided a healthy addition to their daily diet. Herbs were used as seasoning and medicine. Flowers brightened an otherwise monotonous fort life. Working in the garden was part of the daily routine for officers’ wives and children. The garden also served as a pleasant gathering place for friends and family.
Erected by National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Military.
Location. 35° 23.328′ N, 94° 25.804′ W. Marker is in Fort Smith, Arkansas, in Sebastian County. Marker is on Parker Avenue, on the left when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith AR 72901, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Bastion That Never Was (within shouting distance of this marker);
this page online
Photographed By Denise Boose, July 13, 2012
2. Officer’s Garden Marker
Photographed By Denise Boose, July 13, 2012
3. Officer’s Garden Marker
“The walls were almost hidden by a wealth of vines and foliage, and the enclosed space was a green as nature and care could make it. Beautiful flower beds were kept well tended b the soldiers and added greatly to the beauty of the grounds.” ~Mary Rutherford Cravens recalling Fort Smith in the 1850’s.
Photographed By Denise Boose, July 13, 2012
4. Officer’s Garden Marker
Seeds were either ordered from catalogs or sent by relatives.
Photographed By Denise Boose, July 13, 2012
5. Officer’s Garden Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on June 12, 2020. It was originally submitted on August 21, 2012, by Denise Boose of Tehachapi, California. This page has been viewed 698 times since then and 24 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on August 21, 2012, by Denise Boose of Tehachapi, California. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.
