Fayetteville History

Documenting the funky past of Fayetteville, Arkansas

The Osage and the Quapaw nations traveled the region now known as Northwest Arkansas for generations, including the land upon which Fayetteville was eventually founded. During a brief period, early Cherokee migrants lived in the region as well.

Approaching a Bicentennial

Fayetteville, founded in 1828, will celebrate its first 200 years during the course of 2028. Join in by learning more about the city’s past and thinking about ways to improve upon the city we have today.

Today in History – March 10

March 10, 2026

1952 Dr. William G. Pollard, director of the Oak Ridge Institute of Nuclear Studies, gave a series of lectures at the University of Arkansas starting on this day. The lectures, titled “The Riddle of the Sphinx,” were given as part of Religious Emphasis Week.

Joel Bunch

February 28, 2026

Lt. Colonel (Ret.) Joel L. Bunch passed away Saturday, February 28th, in Fayetteville after 91 beloved and beautiful years. Born in Elkins, Arkansas, on February 17, 1935, to Joel Ernest Bunch and Edith (Stokenbury) Bunch, he grew up in Elkins where he lived for most of his life and graduated from Elkins High School and … More Joel Bunch

George's Majestic

Frou Gallagher, a long-time Fayetteville chronicler and videographer, created a documentary film about George's Majestic Lounge, the longest-operating pub in Fayetteville.