(PRAIRIE GROVE, Ark.) – Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park hosted an open house of its Collection Management Facility today. Work was recently completed on the facility to address repair issues and ensure safe storage of the park’s historical artifacts.
“The updates and repairs made to the Collection Management Facility ensure that the park’s historical artifacts are able to be properly cared for and housed within the local community,” said Stacy Hurst, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “The collection now has a permanent home on the grounds of Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park.”
The artifacts had previously been scheduled to be moved to Jacksonport State Park in Newport due to the discovery of mold in the facility where they were being stored. The local community approached the Department and requested that the artifacts remain at the park and that steps be taken to preserve them.
“We are always glad to hear that the community around a state park is invested in the well-being of that park,” said Shea Lewis, director of Arkansas State Parks. “Prairie Grove’s community took ownership of this park and worked with us toward the best outcome to preserve these important artifacts that support the mission of the park.”
Mold remediation has been completed, as well as other repairs and updates that will ensure the safety of the historical artifacts.
Lewis, Arkansas State Parks Deputy Director Jeff King and Park Superintendent Susan Donnangelo made brief remarks at the event. Afterward, the attendees toured the facility.
Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park
Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park is known as one of America’s most intact Civil War battlefields. With more than 900 acres, the park commemorates the site of the Battle of Prairie Grove, where on Dec. 7, 1862, Confederate and Union forces clashed in a fierce day of fighting that resulted in 2,700 casualties. This battle marked the last major Civil War engagement in Northwest Arkansas.
Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.
