Events

March 21, 2026 Jacksonport State Park to feature guest speaker Dr. Robert Scott to celebrate Archeology Month 2:00-4:00 pm Celebrate Archelogy Month: Join Dr. Robert Scott, Archeologist at Parkin Archeological State Park, as he presents Applied Zooarchaeology and the Analysis of Archeological Freshwater Mussel Shell. As we dig into his presentation we will learn some of the ways mussels were used by past peoples, the intensity with which they were gathered, how time and place varied, the role mussels played in the diets of past peoples and other ways they were utilized. Mussels played an important role in Jacksonport’s past and will continue to play a key role for the future. The program will be held in the 1872 Courthouse Museum Courtroom, a kid friendly surface dig at the beach will follow for children ages 5-12.

April 25 at 6:00-9:00 pm Justice in Jacksonport 1886: Murder Trial of A. B. Chambers: James Williams is dead, A.B. Chambers was the last to see him alive. Was it murder or an accident? Only the jury can decide. This trial is based on actual events that occurred in Newport, Arkansas and were tried in the courthouse at Jacksonport in 1886. After enjoying a catered meal, guest will take part in a living history drama re-enacting this case in the same historical courtroom as it would have happened in 1886. Advance registration is required for this event. The deadline to register is 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 20th. This event is limited to a minimum of 25, and a maximum of 50 participants. This event has full accessibility for visitors with disabilities. Please call the park for more information about accessibility, menu and to register. Cost per person is $35, which includes a catered meal, drink, dessert and re-enactment.