History of Garland County, Arkansas
Garland County, located in central Arkansas, is home to one of the most famous natural attractions in the United States: Hot Springs National Park. Established in 1873, Garland County has long been a destination for visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of its hot springs, drawing Native Americans, European explorers, and eventually tourists from across the country. With a history shaped by its natural beauty, mineral waters, and tourism industry, Garland County has played an essential role in the state’s development. Today, it is a vibrant community that balances its historical legacy with modern growth and economic diversification.
Garland County Facts
- Founded: April 5, 1873
- Population: Approximately 100,000 (2023 estimate)
- Area: 735 square miles
- Area Codes: 501
- ZIP Codes: 71901–71968
- County Seat: Hot Springs
- Major Cities: Hot Springs, Fountain Lake, Mountain Pine
- Famous Landmarks: Hot Springs National Park, Bathhouse Row, Lake Ouachita, Garvan Woodland Gardens, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Native American Presence and European Exploration (Pre-1800s)
Before European explorers arrived, the area that would become Garland County was inhabited by Native American tribes, who recognized the natural springs’ healing properties. The region’s rich resources and mineral waters made it a notable area long before formal settlement began.
Native American Tribes and Early Exploration (Pre-1800s)
- The area now known as Garland County was part of the traditional lands of the Caddo and Quapaw tribes. Native Americans visited the hot springs for centuries, believing in their therapeutic and spiritual properties.
- The first European to explore the region was likely Hernando de Soto in the 1540s, as he passed through Arkansas on his expedition to explore the Mississippi Valley. However, formal European settlement did not begin until the early 19th century.
The Louisiana Purchase and Early American Exploration (1803)
- After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the United States acquired the region, opening it up to American settlers and explorers. The hot springs quickly became a well-known attraction for settlers, who believed the waters had medicinal properties.
- Early visitors came to bathe in and drink the water, which was thought to cure a variety of ailments, from rheumatism to skin conditions.
Establishment of Garland County and Growth of Hot Springs (1870s–1900s)
Garland County was officially established in 1873, during a period of growth spurred by the popularity of Hot Springs as a health resort. The region’s hot springs drew visitors from across the country, leading to the development of bathhouses, hotels, and other tourist infrastructure. The county was named after Augustus H. Garland, a former governor of Arkansas and U.S. Senator.
Formation of Garland County (1873)
- 1873: Garland County was officially established on April 5, 1873, carved out of parts of Hot Spring, Montgomery, and Saline counties. It was named in honor of Augustus H. Garland, who later became the 38th governor of Arkansas and served as U.S. Attorney General under President Grover Cleveland.
- The county seat was located in Hot Springs, a thriving town built around the natural thermal springs that had drawn visitors for centuries.
Growth of Hot Springs as a Health Resort (1870s–1900s)
- Hot Springs grew rapidly during the late 19th century, becoming one of the most famous health resorts in the United States. Wealthy visitors and those suffering from chronic illnesses flocked to the town to bathe in the therapeutic waters. The development of Bathhouse Row, a collection of elaborate bathhouses, began during this time.
- In 1832, long before the county’s official formation, the area surrounding the hot springs was set aside as a federal reserve by the U.S. government, making it the first land in the United States to be protected for its natural resources. In 1921, this area became Hot Springs National Park, further cementing the area’s status as a premier destination for health tourism.
- The popularity of the springs led to the construction of grand hotels, bathhouses, and medical facilities, attracting not only those seeking healing but also gamblers, politicians, and celebrities.
The Early 20th Century: Tourism, Gambling, and the Great Depression (1900s–1930s)
The early 20th century marked a period of prosperity and controversy for Garland County. While the hot springs continued to draw tourists, the town of Hot Springs also became known for its connection to organized crime and illegal gambling, making it a destination for both health seekers and gamblers. The Great Depression brought challenges to the county, but it remained a popular destination.
Hot Springs as a Tourist Destination (1900s–1930s)
- 1900s–1930s: Hot Springs continued to thrive as a destination for both tourists and gamblers. In addition to the health resorts, the town became a hub for illegal gambling, with crime bosses such as Al Capone reportedly visiting the area. Hot Springs earned a reputation as a town where political corruption and organized crime were tolerated, adding to its allure for visitors seeking both entertainment and healing.
- Despite its reputation, Hot Springs remained a premier health resort, with its bathhouses continuing to attract people seeking cures for a wide range of ailments.
The Great Depression’s Impact on Garland County (1930s)
- 1930s: The Great Depression affected Garland County as it did much of the country, with widespread poverty and unemployment. However, Hot Springs’ reputation as a health and entertainment destination allowed it to fare better than many other rural areas during this time.
- New Deal programs, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), played a role in improving infrastructure in the county, including the construction of new roads and buildings in Hot Springs National Park. These projects provided jobs for local residents and helped to maintain the county’s tourist infrastructure during the economic downturn.
World War II and Post-War Development (1940s–1960s)
World War II brought new challenges and opportunities to Garland County. The war led to a temporary decline in tourism, but Hot Springs played an important role as a training center for the U.S. military. After the war, the county saw significant growth, with a renewed focus on tourism and recreation.
World War II and Military Presence in Hot Springs (1940s)
- 1940s: During World War II, Hot Springs was selected as the site of the Army and Navy General Hospital, where injured soldiers were treated using the therapeutic waters of the hot springs. The military presence in the town helped sustain the local economy during the war years.
- The town also served as a training site for soldiers preparing for deployment, and the influx of military personnel brought temporary growth to the area.
Post-War Boom and Infrastructure Expansion (1950s–1960s)
- 1950s–1960s: After the war, Garland County experienced a period of significant growth. Tourism remained central to the local economy, with Hot Springs continuing to attract visitors from across the country. The expansion of roads and the development of new infrastructure made the area more accessible to tourists.
- The construction of Lake Hamilton and Lake Ouachita added new recreational opportunities to the area, drawing visitors interested in boating, fishing, and water sports. These man-made lakes, created by damming the Ouachita River, became popular vacation destinations, further diversifying the county’s tourism economy.
The Late 20th Century to Present: Tourism, Preservation, and Economic Diversification (1970s–Present)
In recent decades, Garland County has focused on preserving its historical landmarks while also modernizing its economy. Tourism remains a key industry, but the county has also diversified its economy by expanding into sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology.
Efforts to Preserve Hot Springs’ History (1970s–1990s)
- 1970s–1990s: As the tourism industry continued to grow, efforts to preserve Hot Springs’ unique historical and architectural heritage intensified. Bathhouse Row was designated a National Historic Landmark, and several of the bathhouses were restored and repurposed as museums, galleries, and cultural centers.
- Garvan Woodland Gardens, a botanical garden located on the shores of Lake Hamilton, was developed during this time, offering a new attraction for visitors interested in the natural beauty of the area.
Modern Economic Growth and Diversification (2000s–Present)
- 2000s–Present: In recent years, Garland County has seen continued growth, particularly in the city of Hot Springs. While tourism remains a central part of the economy, the county has diversified by investing in healthcare, education, and technology. The presence of National Park College and medical centers has helped drive new economic opportunities.
- The Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, which has been a fixture of the county since the early 1900s, expanded into a full-scale casino and entertainment complex, bringing additional revenue and visitors to the area. Oaklawn is one of the most popular attractions in the region, hosting thoroughbred horse racing and drawing visitors from across the United States.
Outdoor Recreation and Tourism
- Garland County has embraced its reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation, with Lake Ouachita, Lake Hamilton, and the Ouachita National Forest offering ample opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and boating. Hot Springs National Park remains the centerpiece of the county’s tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors each year.
- The development of the Delta Heritage Trail and other recreational infrastructure has helped ensure that Garland County remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Conclusion
Garland County’s history is deeply intertwined with its natural beauty and the therapeutic properties of its hot springs. From its early days as a health resort to its evolution as a modern tourist and entertainment destination, the county has continually adapted to changing economic and social conditions. Today, Garland County remains one of the most popular destinations in Arkansas, offering a unique blend of history, recreation, and modern attractions.
Sources for Garland County History
For further exploration of Garland County’s history, visit:
- Hot Springs National Park to learn about the area’s therapeutic waters and historical significance
- Bathhouse Row for a glimpse into the county’s health resort legacy
- Garvan Woodland Gardens for scenic beauty and outdoor experiences
- Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort for entertainment and thoroughbred horse racing
