Vertically split logs define Koon House #5, Koon Building #7 and the Slabtown Grocery Building. Their distinctive construction and connection to builder Henry Hillary “Pappy” Koon give all three buildings local significance. Together, a clearly identifiable architectural feature and a specific person are part of Grant County’s building history.
At Cross Roads School and Masonic Lodge, the focus shifts from an individual construction feature to a building type: it represents a two-story school type in a simple traditional style that is becoming increasingly rare in Arkansas. The emphasis here is on the type and its rarity—a different approach to architectural history from the distinctive log construction of the Koon buildings.
Nature Between Hills and River
Gently rolling, pine-covered hills define Grant County. Nearby, logged forest areas are designated as a bird sanctuary. The landscape theme thus encompasses both the shape of the hills and the protective role of the forest areas. Fishing is a popular recreational activity on the Saline River. This offers a useful distinction when choosing what interests you: the hills and forest areas represent the landscape and bird conservation, while a specific recreational activity takes center stage on the river.
History, Remembrance and Events
Jenkins' Ferry Battleground State Park features informational panels, a picnic area and a boat ramp. The Battle of Jenkins Ferry is also important for historical context: it was part of the Union Army’s Red River Campaign in 1864. This brings together specific park amenities and a clearly defined military-historical context.
At the memorial sites, it is worth distinguishing between two parks with similar names. Grant County B-17 Memorial Park honors the airmen who died in the 1943 crash as well as veterans from the region; outdoor exhibits commemorate them. Grant County Veterans Memorial Park has a replica of the B-17F Flying Fortress and a monument engraved with the names of the airmen who died. The park opened on October 12, 2015.
The main building of the Grant County Museum houses exhibits on the county’s history. This means that, alongside individual memorial sites, the region’s history also has a place in its own right. The present courthouse adds another architectural thread: it was dedicated on July 12, 1964, and is an example of Greek Revival architecture. While the Koon buildings stand out for their construction from vertically split logs, the courthouse is identified by its architectural style.
The Arkansas State Lumberjack Championship is part of the recurring Timberfest and is its main attraction. This shifts the focus from permanent buildings and memorial sites to a recurring event. Grant County’s cultural appeal thus ranges from individual buildings and regional history to a festival with a clear sporting focus.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Sheridan, Stone County, Scott County, Randolph County, Jackson County, Franklin County, Carroll County and Pike.
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