Important Arkansas historical events and significant anniversaries for August 17, with notable births and deaths of people with Arkansas connections for this date. Information is drawn from state archives, historical societies, contemporary newspapers and other media archives, and legal records. Much of this information comes from the Encyclopedia of Arkansas, an online publication. ChatGPH has collected this data.
1804 — William Dunbar described the future Hot Springs. Scottish-born planter and explorer William Dunbar wrote President Thomas Jefferson on August 17, 1804, about unusual natural features along the Ouachita River, specifically mentioning the “boiling springs” that became Hot Springs National Park. The letter helped set the stage for the later Hunter-Dunbar expedition into the Louisiana Purchase.
1861 — Fourth Arkansas Infantry organized. The Confederate Fourth Arkansas Infantry, made up of companies raised in Calhoun, Hempstead, Montgomery, Pike, Lafayette and Polk counties, organized in Lawrence County, Missouri, on August 17, 1861. Evander McNair was elected its colonel that day. The regiment later fought at Pea Ridge and in other major western campaigns…