Overview
Fort Smith National Historic Site preserves the remains of two frontier forts and the courtroom of Judge Isaac C. Parker, on the border with what was then Indian Territory.
History
The first fort was built in 1817. Judge Parker ruled the federal court here from 1875 to 1896 and became known as the "Hanging Judge". The site is also part of the Trail of Tears story.
Today
Visitors can see the courtroom, the jail and a reconstructed gallows.
Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.