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.

Susan Chadick

April 16, 2026

Susan Elizabeth Lesh Chadick died April 16, 2026, at age 83. She was born March 12, 1943, at Fayetteville City Hospital to Ruth E. and Vincent O. Lesh. Susan’s maternal grandfather, E.F. Ellis, M.D., signed her birth certificate. After her hospital stay, Susan was taken home to 423 East Spring Street. Through seventh grade, Susan … More Susan Chadick

Heather Armstrong

April 13, 2026

Heather Lynn Armstrong, 56, of Fayetteville, passed peacefully to Heaven on Monday, April 13, 2026. She was born July 14, 1969, in Janesville, Wisc., to Bruce and Joan (Kaitschuk) Armstrong. Heather spent her early years surrounded by a large circle of family and friends in Williams Bay, Wisc. In 1973, the Armstrong family moved from … More Heather Armstrong

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.