A couple of weeks ago my Arkansas Women Blogger friend, Laurie, wrote an article for Only in Arkansas about a cool new program being sponsored by the Arkansas Historical Preservation Program. The Arkansas National Register Passport Program is a listing of 26 stamping stations that can be found at sites listed on the National Register. Passports can be picked up at each of the stamping stations and at 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers throughout the state (or you can request one here). What’s a more perfect way to kick off spring than an #AuthenticArkansas adventure?Really, if you look closely enough, adventure is everywhere in Arkansas.
Plus, look at that stamp. Yep, I picked up a passport today and there was a historical site (actually two) along the way as Thom and I traveled across the state. Since reading Laurie’s article and reading more about the program I feel a personal obligation to get out and explore my adopted state more. I love history. I love travel. I love Arkansas. It’s a no-brainer, right? I’m kind of a bit competitive and when a challenge is put forth, I must accept.
Our first stop was the Ozark Area Depot Museum situated on the banks of the Arkansas River in the sleepy town of Ozark. It was an old railroad depot that has been converted into the sweetest museum and is filled to the rafters with Ozark memorabilia.
I love the crazy stuff found in these places; like this ancient hair perming contraption. Can you imagine sitting under this with those clips attached to your head?
These cotton carders made me think of my friend Talya (whom I will be sharing more about later this week).
And look! There’s still cotton attached.
There’s so much more to see at the Ozark Area Depot Museum. You’ll have to stop in on your own #AuthenticArkansas Adventure and check it out!
This may not “count” as the kind of adventure above, however I got lost recently, in my own city and spent a large portion of the time, not trying to find my way out. Instead my time was spent admiring houses and a neighborhood I never knew existed!
As Bill & Ted would say-That’s an excellent adventure!