Fort Smith in Sebastian County, Arkansas — The American South (West South Central)

Belle Point

Photographed By Michael Manning, October 6, 2014

1. Belle Point Marker

Inscription. Click to hear the inscription.

In 1817, the first Fort Smith was built at Belle Point at the junction of the Poteau and Arkansas Rivers by Major William Bradford, for the mutual protection of the pioneers and Indians. He was in command until 1822. It was named in honor of Brigadier General Thomas A. Smith. Erected as a public service by the Noon Civics Club, 1939.

Erected 1939 by Noon Civics Club.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Forts and Castles • Native Americans • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical year for this entry is 1817.

Location. 35° 23.293′ N, 94° 25.875′ W. Marker is in Fort Smith, Arkansas, in Sebastian County. Located on the grounds of the Fort Smith National Historic Site, adjacent to the railroad tracks. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: 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. Whiskey War (within shouting distance of this marker); At the Edge of Indian Country (within shouting distance of this marker); The Officer’s Quarters (within shouting distance of this marker); Fort Wall

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(within shouting distance of this marker); Defending Freedom (within shouting distance of this marker); Confederates Occupy The Fort (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Executions at Fort Smith (about 400 feet away); The Gallows (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Fort Smith.

Photographed By Michael Manning, October 6, 2014

2. Belle Point Marker

Post at Belle Point image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Michael Manning, October 6, 2014

3. Post at Belle Point

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on October 11, 2014, by Michael Manning of Woodlawn, Tennessee. This page has been viewed 603 times since then and 85 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 11, 2014, by Michael Manning of Woodlawn, Tennessee. • Al Wolf was the editor who published this page.