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.

Linda Osburn

February 6, 2026

Linda Annette Osburn, 73, of Fayetteville, passed away Friday, February 6, 2026, in Fayetteville. She was born January 15, 1953, in Fayetteville to Jay Lawson Osburn Sr. and Dorothy Mae Smith. She was a graduate of Fayetteville High School. Linda attended Center Street Church of Christ and retired from Black Hills Energy. Linda is survived … More Linda Osburn

Images of 23 of the people who have served in Congress representing Northwest Arkansas

3rd Congressional District of Arkansas

February 1, 2026

Five of the congressmen who represented the northwestern part of the state lived in Fayetteville when they won election to the U.S. House of Representatives. … More 3rd Congressional District of Arkansas

Nico Wilkerson

February 1, 2026

Mhaniq “Nico” Wilkerson, age 27, passed away Sunday February 1, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. He was born October 25, 1998 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Roberta (Robin) Bidwell Wilkerson. Mhaniq served in the United States Navy to help protect his country. He is survived by his daughter: Nova Rose Littlejohn of Seattle, Wash., and two … More Nico Wilkerson

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.