The Washington County Historical Society is using the historic Headquarters House in Fayetteville to connect Arkansas’ rich past with America’s upcoming 250th birthday celebration. As the nation prepares for this milestone, the society is emphasizing local history’s role in the broader national narrative.
Preserving Local History
Headquarters House, built in 1853 for Judge Jonas Tebbetts and his wife Matilda, stands as a testament to Fayetteville’s historical significance. It was the site of the 1863 Battle of Fayetteville during the Civil War, where over 100 soldiers lost their lives. The house now serves as the headquarters for the Washington County Historical Society, which operates a museum and hosts community events.
Peggy Chenault, corresponding secretary of the society’s executive board, stated, “We have been celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States all year long.” The society has organized several events, including a Statehood Day Lecture on June 14 featuring former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, who will discuss his family’s legacy in the state.
Educational Initiatives
In addition to commemorating historical events, the society is focused on educating younger generations. They offer tours, educational programs, and summer history camps to introduce children to local history. One notable project is the reissue of Marion Tebbetts Baines’ memoir, which provides a firsthand account of life in 19th-century Fayetteville.
Visitors to Headquarters House can explore exhibits that highlight the lives of those who once lived there, including Judge Tebbetts’ support for the Union in a Confederate region. Physical reminders of the past, such as a bullet hole from the Battle of Fayetteville, remain popular attractions.
As communities nationwide prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, the Washington County Historical Society hopes that Headquarters House will continue to serve as a vital link between local and national history.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
