The economy was based on agriculturral products and coal mining. Crops grown at various times included, cotton, corn, wheat, strawberries, vegetables, and others. Coal mining declined in the late 1950's and very little is mined today. In 1901, natural gas was discovered and resulted in the first commercial production of gas in Arkansas. Beef cattle, poultry and timber make up the major products at the present time.
Most people producing agricultural products also have jobs in industry.
Today, many people make the 30 minute drive to Fort Smith to work and still enjoy the rural setting in Mansfield for their home. Basic shoping and services are available with very little traffic and congestion. The school system of K through 12th grade has over 1,000 students and 100 teachers and workers. Seven churches serve the community with many others in the surrounding area. The main industry is a sawmill porducing lumber.