Join the Retracing Our Roots team as we delve into the fascinating history and unique origins of town names across the Twin Lakes Region.
We begin with Yellville, the county seat of Marion County, Arkansas, originally known as Shawneetown. The town was renamed after Arkansas’ second governor, Archibald Yell, who promised the town’s leaders $50 to make the change. Unfortunately, Yell never fulfilled his promise, as he was killed in the Battle of Buena Vista. Remarkably, in April 2006, his descendants, David and William Yell, honored this debt in a public ceremony, finally making good on the pledge 170 years later.
Next, we’ll uncover the stories behind other local towns, such as Flippin, Cotter, and Gassville. A few of Gassville’s newer residents once attempted to rename their town to Autumn Run, but the effort failed, and the original name still endures.
Our journey continues with a brief look at Monkey Run and Three Brothers, whose name originates from three prominent hills in the area. We’ll also recount how Rapp’s Barren was renamed Mountain Home, thanks to a quirky vote involving corncobs.
In the northern part of the region, we’ll explore Promise Land and Oakland, a significant area that was once home to the largest free Black colony in Arkansas before the Civil War. Moving south, we’ll share the bittersweet tale of little “Naked Joe,” a community that became known as Old Joe.
Finally, we’ll discuss how Baxter County was named to honor Arkansas Governor, Elisha Baxter.
We deeply appreciate your support, emails, and suggestions. A special thanks goes out to Rapp’s Barren Brewing Company for sponsoring Retracing Our Roots!
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Archibald Yell Marker[/caption]
