The Van Buren community gathered at the Drennen-Scott Historic Site Saturday morning to commemorate the 190th anniversary of Arkansas’ statehood. The Drennen-Scott House, established in the 1830s, was the former home of John Drennen, one of the founders of Van Buren and a crucial figure in helping Arkansas become part of the United States on June 15, 1836.

A Piece of Arkansas History

The building still stands as a piece of Arkansas history, with original pieces from the Drennen family preserved, including original chairs, a piano and music box, a collection of silver dishes, and portraits of the Drennen family. People gathered at the house to listen to a fiddle performance of the ‘Arkansas Traveller,’ witness a cannon salute, and learn about Arkansas’ statehood, from its frontier beginnings to the creation of the Arkansas Constitution of 1836.

This document established citizens’ foundational rights, including the right to freedom of speech, press, and religion. Although daily life looked much different in the 19th century, people back then experienced the same struggles the country has today, according to Tom Wing, assistant professor of history at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith.

Wing said that through this appreciation of history, people can try to avoid the mistakes made by previous generations and learn from the past. The celebration at the Drennen-Scott Historic Site was a chance for the community to come together and reflect on the state’s rich history.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.