Important Arkansas historical events and significant anniversaries for May 1, 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.
On May 1, 1820, the Arkansas Territorial Legislature created Phillips County out of Arkansas County, naming it for early settler Sylvanus Phillips; Helena later became the county seat.
On May 1-2, 1863, the Skirmish at Chalk Bluff in Clay County saw Confederate forces escape back into Arkansas during their withdrawal from Missouri…