In 1971, the state purchased the land from the United Daughters of the Confederacy and the commission handed over control. Now containing 65 acres, the property became Arkansas s 27th state park. Since that time I think we ve made quite a bit of slow improvement, says Smith. The park now contains 500 acres and provides even more than a reunion grounds for veteran s of war. We have a whole lot of family reunions here, explains Smith.
Company picnics are common as well.
Some people use the park for recreation, walking for exercise along the foot path or riding bikes. A yearly Memorial Day Tribute takes on a picnic atmosphere with Civil War era games and music, political addresses and a family concert by well-known musicians, like Trout Fishing in America. One of the most moving experiences at the park is the reenactment of the Battle of Prairie Grove. It only occurs on even-numbered years. The two day schedule of events includes historic home tours, guided camp tours, audio visual programs, a ladies tea and program on fashion for the Christmas season and a battle demonstration each afternoon.