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This Day in Arkansas History

July 12, 1976

The Cleburne County Courthouse, which was constructed in 1914, was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This two-story Jeffersonian Revival–style structure replaced the wooden structure that previously served as the courthouse. The newly built courthouse boasted a façade and rear elevation that are identical, and each is highlighted by a large two-story portico supported by four Doric columns. The courthouse still serves as both a seat of county government and as a social hub for the community. Its grounds host festivals and concerts throughout the year.

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Reader Railroad

What became known as the Reader Railroad began in 1889 as a narrow-gauge sawmill line running through parts of Ouachita and Nevada counties. Sold several times over the years, by 1925, it was renamed in honor of the town of Reader, which lies on the border between the two counties. As business declined, the railroad was converted into a tourist excursion train in 1980. During its approximately eleven years of operation, more than 100,000 tourists rode the train. Insolvency coupled with new federal regulations caused the excursion venture to close in 1991.

 

What became known as the Reader Railroad began in 1889 as a narrow-gauge sawmill line running through parts of Ouachita and Nevada counties. Sold several times over the years, by 1925, it was renamed in honor of the town of Reader, which lies on the border between the two counties. As business declined, the railroad was converted into a tourist excursion train in 1980. During its approximately eleven years of operation, more than 100,000 tourists rode the train. Insolvency coupled with new federal regulations caused the excursion venture to close in 1991.

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About the Encyclopedia

The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a free, authoritative source of information about the rich history, geography, and culture of Arkansas. It is updated regularly to ensure the people of Arkansas have an accurate and accessible resource to explore our heritage. We invite you to browse our text entries and media galleries to learn more about the people, places, events, legends, and lore of the 25th state. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, quizzes, lesson plans, and more, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

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