Join us for an exciting episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast as we sit down with Caroline Speir, Executive Director of the Fort Smith Museum of History! Caroline takes us on a journey through Fort Smith’s rich past, from the museum’s origins in 1910 to the legendary stories of Judge Parker, Bass Reeves, and General William O. Darby.We explore how Fort Smith’s history is preserved, the influence of female pioneers in shaping the museum, and the truth behind Hollywood myths. Plus, learn about the city’s sister city relationships with Cisterna, Italy, and Nago Torbole, Italy, both tied to General Darby’s WWII legacy.We also discuss must-see interactive exhibits, including the On the Air radio & TV history exhibit, re-enactment programs, and major events like Murder & Mayhem, Fall Fest, and The Witches Ride. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Fort Smith’s hidden stories, this episode is a must-listen!📍 Plan your visit to the Fort Smith Museum of History: https://www.fortsmithmuseum.orgRelevant Links: • Fort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-history • Fort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site • Judge Parker’s Courtroom & Gallows: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/judge-parkers-courtroom • General William O. Darby Statue & Legacy: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/general-william-darby • Belle Grove Historic District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/belle-grove-historic-district • The Clayton House: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/clayton-house

Rev up for this special episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast as we sit down with Dennis Snow and Dr. Wes Milam to talk about the Steel Horse Rally—one of the biggest motorcycle rallies in the region! 🏍️🔥

Learn how this family-friendly event started, its economic impact on Fort Smith, and the charitable causes it supports, including veterans and children’s organizations. Dennis and Wes share exciting details about this year’s rally, including:

✅ Thunder Through the Valley Parade – A must-see spectacle!

✅ Cops & Cones – Motorcycle skills showdown featuring police officers!

✅ Bikes & Badges Show at the U.S. Marshals Museum – Free museum entry on rally day!

✅ Strongman Competition, Vendors, & Live Music – So much to see & do!

The Steel Horse Rally is more than just motorcycles—it’s a celebration of community, giving back, and showcasing Fort Smith’s legendary hospitality. Mark your calendars: May 2-3, 2025!

📍 Learn more & get involved: https://www.thesteelhorserally.com

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Sara Strom, President of Fort Kids Children’s Museum, as she shares her journey and the vision behind creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging space for children and families in Fort Smith. Sara discusses how play is essential for childhood development, the museum’s STEM-focused exhibits, and how the community can support this incredible initiative.Learn about the interactive exhibits, the museum’s downtown riverfront location, and the grassroots effort driving this exciting project forward. If you’re passionate about early childhood education, community building, or making Fort Smith an even better place for families, this episode is for you!🔹 Learn how Fort Kids is shaping the future of play🔹 Discover how YOU can help make this vision a reality🔹 Hear about exciting upcoming events & fundraisers👉 Want to get involved? Visit Fort Kids Children’s MuseumRelevant Links: • Fort Kids Children’s Museum: https://www.fortkidschildrensmuseum.com • Bakery District (Pop-up Play Space): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district • Fort Smith Riverfront: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/riverfront • Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museum • Arts on Main: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/arts-on-main • Discover Fort Smith Podcast Interest Form: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/podcast

Step back in time with Cody Faber, National Park Ranger at the Fort Smith National Historic Site! 🏛️ In this episode, Cody shares his deep passion for Fort Smith’s rich history, from its early days as a military fort to its role in the Wild West.Tune in to hear:🔹 The true stories of Judge Parker, outlaws, and deputy marshals🔹 The Trail of Tears connection and Fort Smith’s impact on Native American history🔹 Fun and bizarre historical tales, including a bear loose in the jail! 🐻🔹 Interactive programs at the Historic Site, including cannon firings & trial reenactments🔹 Why Cody is proud to raise his family in Fort SmithIf you love history, Western culture, or hidden stories about Fort Smith, this episode is for you!👉 Plan Your Visit: https://www.nps.gov/fosmRelevant Links: • Fort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site • Judge Parker’s Courtroom & Gallows: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/judge-parker • Trail of Tears History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/trail-of-tears • Miss Laura’s Visitors Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/miss-lauras • Fort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-history

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Bridget Duncan, Digital Media Coordinator at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum (RAM)! 🎨 Bridget shares her journey as an artist, her role in promoting local and regional art, and why she chose to stay in Fort Smith after college.In this episode, we explore:🔹 The history and mission of RAM as a free, accessible space for the community🔹 How art impacts Fort Smith’s culture and tourism🔹 The importance of emerging artists and student showcases🔹 Bridget’s personal journey in the arts & what keeps her in Fort SmithPlus, get the inside scoop on exhibitions, events, and free community programs happening at RAM! Whether you’re an art lover, local creative, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is for you. 🎭👉 Visit RAM: https://www.fsram.orgRelevant Links: • Fort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museum • Unexpected Murals Project: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/unexpected • Fort Smith Coffee Co.: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-coffee • Creekmore Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-park • Fort Smith Riverfront Trail: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/riverfront • Arts on Main: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/arts-on-main

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Michael Mings, Mobility Coordinator for the City of Fort Smith! 🚴‍♂️💡 Michael shares his passion for making Fort Smith more connected through biking and walkability initiatives. From his experiences in Fayetteville with the Razorback Regional Greenway to leading the Ride for Smilies bike share program and the All Kids Bike initiative, Michael is dedicated to creating a more accessible and active community.We also discuss the city’s trail systems, downtown mobility, and future plans for making Fort Smith a premier destination for outdoor recreation. Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a visitor, or just love urban planning and cycling culture, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!Relevant Links: • Fort Smith Riverfront Trail: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/riverfront-trail • Ride for Smilies Bike Share Program: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ride-for-smilies • Chaffee Crossing Trails: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/chaffee-crossing • Belle Grove Historic District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/belle-grove-historic-district • Fort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museum • Creekmore Park & Mini Train: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-park • The Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district • Four Corners Children’s Museum (Upcoming!): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/four-corners-childrens-museum

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Madison Marsh, Miss America 2024, and Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, as she shares her incredible journey from growing up in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to making a difference through her Whitney Marsh Foundation. Madison opens up about her family’s enduring support, her mother’s battle with pancreatic cancer, and how Fort Smith shaped her values and aspirations. Learn about Whitney’s Race, her passion for public service, and the powerful lessons she’s learned about perseverance, authenticity, and chasing dreams. This is an episode filled with heart, wisdom, and hope for the future!

Relevant Links:

• Whitney’s Race: https://www.whitneysrace.org

• National U.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museum

• Fort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-history

• Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district

• Pink Flamingo Barbecue: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com

Dive into the heart of Fort Smith with Trent Goins, a community leader and music enthusiast. Born and raised in Fort Smith, Trent shares his inspiring journey from working in Washington, D.C., to returning home and revitalizing the local music and arts scene. Learn about his ventures, including the iconic Majestic venue, the Peacemaker Music Festival, and his vision for the future of Fort Smith's downtown. From the history of OK Foods to the vibrant culture brought by Peacemaker, this episode is packed with stories of passion, heritage, and community impact.

Join us as we sit down with Dawn Childress, a dedicated principal in the Fort Smith Public School system. Dawn shares her journey from Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Fort Smith, her love for the community, and how the local schools are shaping future generations. Explore the innovative programs like the Peak Innovation Center, mentorship opportunities, and the partnerships between schools and local industries. Dawn also highlights the importance of balancing technology in education, preparing students for future careers, and fostering a sense of community in Fort Smith.Whether you're a parent, educator, or just curious about Fort Smith's vibrant school system, this episode is packed with insights into how the city invests in its youth and future.

Relevant Links:

Fort Smith Public Schools: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-public-schools

Peak Innovation Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/peak-innovation-center

Ben Geren Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-park

Janet Huckabee Nature Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-center

Fort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site

Fort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-history

In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, we sit down with Rachel Cannon, the Executive Chef and Director of Operations at Stone House in Chaffee Crossing. Rachel shares her inspiring journey from a childhood in Fort Smith to culinary school and working in cities like Nashville, Philadelphia, and even Italy. Learn about her unique approach to fine dining, the history behind Stone House, and her passion for creating innovative dishes like the famous Firecracker Cauliflower. Rachel also discusses her dreams for Fort Smith, her experiences on TV shows like Guy’s Grocery Games, and her vision for a community-focused culinary future.

Relevant Links:

• Stone House

• Chaffee Crossing

• Bakery District

• Fort Smith National Historic Site

• Janet Huckabee Nature Center