Clayton Conversations — From Cisterns to the Great Lake: History of Fort Smith Water

This first "Clayton Conversations" of the year will take folks on an enjoyable ride through the history of Fort Smith's water supply, beginning with the first system developed in 1884. Learn what daily life was like, regarding the gathering and use of water, for the W. H. H. Clayton family, who lived in this Victorian home without plumbing or electricity from 1882 to 1897. From the well and cistern they used, to the building of the great Lake Fort Smith in 1935-36, to today's larger, top-notch body of water, we've come a long way. Speaker Joe Hamilton, interpreter at Lake Fort Smith State Park, will present a documentary film he produced from vintage photos and film clips of the Depression-era "Clear Creek" project in the Boston Mountains. Seating is limited; call 479-783-3000 or email [email protected] to make reservations. Refreshments, music and tours begin at 1 p.m., followed by the 2 p.m. presentation. Suggested $5 donation.