If walls could talk, the historic 1872 Courthouse at Jacksonport State Park would have quite a story to tell! Once a booming 19th-century river town along the White River, Jacksonport was a steamboat stop, trade center, and even served as a Union supply base during the Civil War. Before railroads changed transportation forever, this river port was the place to be. Today, its legacy lives on through preserved buildings, museum exhibits, and fascinating programs that connect us to the past.
Now it’s time to dig a little deeper—literally! On March 21 from 2:00–4:00 PM as we celebrate Archeology Month with Dr. Robert Scott, Archeologist at Parkin Archeological State Park. His presentation, Applied Zooarchaeology and the Analysis of Archeological Freshwater Mussel Shell, will uncover how freshwater mussels shaped daily life long ago.
You’ll learn how mussels were gathered, how often they were eaten, how their use changed over time, and the surprising ways they supported river communities like Jacksonport. These humble river shells weren’t just dinner—they were tools, resources, and an important part of survival. And believe it or not, they still play a role in the region today!
The program takes place inside the historic 1872 Courthouse Museum Courtroom, adding just the right touch of old-time atmosphere. Afterward, kids ages 5–12 can join in a fun, kid-friendly surface dig at the beach—because every great archeologist has to start somewhere!
History + science + hands-on fun = a perfect afternoon at Jacksonport State Park. Come curious and leave inspired!
For more information contact Park Interpreter Courtney Franklin at 870.201.6360 or courtney.franklin@arkansas.gov