The Hardwood Tree Museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the role of the hardwood tree in the development of Fort Smith, the region, and the nation.
Basically, the hardwood tree is the historic heart and soul of Fort Smith!
Hardwoods contributed to substantial river boat traffic here, as well as to the production of wood products such as wagons, caskets, barrels for the US Army, and eventually automobile parts. It also led to the furniture industry becoming the largest employer in the area.
Today:
The board members are excited about bringing our vision to life.
We recently received the deed to 6 ½ acres of land for our museum’s construction. The location is along Wells Lake Road, adjacent to the Nature Center in Fort Smith, within the Chaffee Crossing district.
HWT Museum Board Members James Reddick and Bob Worley with deed
This deed is very important to accomplishing our mission. We can now move forward not only with grant writing and fund raising but also with landscaping and planting trees, and placing outside artifacts. This includes an 1840 log stable and a small “peckerwood” sawmill, both of which were donated.
The museum will also be receiving a deed for 12 additional acres of wetlands soon.
Please browse our website for more details, or feel free to contact us for more information. From all of us at the Hardwood Tree Museum: thank you for your support!
