Former Fort Smith Mayor Ray Baker had a famous motto that he ended most of his speeches with: “Life’s Worth Living, in Fort Smith, Arkansas!”

Serving as mayor from 1991 to 2010, “Mr. Fort Smith” promoted civic growth and the common good, including city infrastructure, arts awards, and family-centric initiatives. He also served as a history teacher for 44 years, championing both Arkansas State and Fort Smith Local History, which runs deep in many ways. Fort Smith holds historic significance as a key military outpost established in 1817 that served as a gateway to the Western frontier, played a pivotal role in enforcing federal law in Indian Territory, and became a symbol of justice through the legacy of Judge Isaac C. Parker, known as the "Hanging Judge."

Funnily enough, Mayor Ray Baker was also Fort Smith Billing/Contract Specialist Lacey Nietert’s 11th grade history teacher. So began her search for – and deep appreciation for – the rich history that resides in her hometown.

“Mr. Baker was bubbly and just really wanted you to learn. He was big on teaching these unique aspects of our history, and it certainly made a big impact on me then and still today,” Lacey said.

Born and raised in Fort Smith, Lacey has no intention of leaving this place she calls home. Whether it’s her favorite restaurant (Ronaldo’s), the Fort Smith Little Theater with its intimate live shows, the lively downtown, or the walking trails that weave through the geographic beauty of the city, Lacey considers it “a really great place to raise a family.”

“I know everyone in my parents’ area and my grandparents’ area of town. Everybody knows everybody, really,” Lacey said. “It’s just a warm, friendly place that outsiders can feel as soon as they arrive.”

When it comes to the deep history of Fort Smith, one major highlight is the recently opened U.S. Marshals Museum. Though the opening of the museum was delayed (construction setbacks, leadership turnover, pandemic, etc.), Lacey got to visit it soon after it opened in 2023.

“Oh man, it was so neat. We have a deep connection to the US Marshals, as we were kind of a hub… It’s a really, really neat addition to our town.” 

Fort(ified) in History: 5 other historic spots to check out in the Fort Smith area.

1. Fort Smith National Historic Site

• Why visit: This is where it all began, located at the site of the original 1817 military fort. It offers walking trails, preserved courtroom and jail facilities (including the famous “Hell on the Border” jail), and stories of frontier justice under Judge Isaac C. Parker.
• What you’ll experience: Authentic history of the American West, Native American relocation, and law enforcement in the 19th century.

2. Miss Laura’s Visitor Center

• Why visit: Housed in a former bordello in the historic downtown area, it’s not only Fort Smith’s official visitor center but also a perfectly preserved piece of colorful local lore.
• What you’ll experience: A free tour that blends quirky stories with authentic architecture from the town’s rowdy frontier days.

3. Fort Chaffee Barbershop Museum

• Why visit: This is where Elvis Presley got his famous Army haircut in 1958. Beyond that, Fort Chaffee played major roles during World War II and as a refugee center during several global conflicts.
• What you’ll experience: A small but fascinating look into Fort Smith’s military and pop culture moments.

4. Drennen-Scott Historic Site (in nearby Van Buren)

• Why visit: Just across the river in Van Buren, this site was home to John Drennen, an influential 19th-century figure in Fort Smith’s development.
• What you’ll experience: Beautifully preserved home, family artifacts, and insight into frontier politics, trade, and domestic life.

5. Fort Smith Trolley Museum

• Why visit: This living museum preserves Fort Smith’s public transit past and offers a hands-on ride through history.
• What you’ll experience: A chance to ride restored vintage streetcars, explore railway memorabilia, and get a feel for how early transportation helped shape the city.