Arbuckle Island facts for kids
 Arbuckle Island
Location in Arkansas
Arbuckle Island
Location in the United States
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| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Arkansas |
| Coordinates | 35°26′04″N 94°07′56″W / 35.4345325°N 94.1321504°W |
| Administration | |
| State |  Arkansas |
| County | Sebastian County |
Arbuckle Island is a small piece of land in the middle of the Arkansas River. It is located in Sebastian County, Arkansas, in the United States. This island was named after a very interesting person, Matthew Arbuckle Jr., who was a soldier for many years and once owned the island.
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What is Arbuckle Island?
Arbuckle Island is a tiny island found within the Arkansas River. It is not a very large island, but it is a notable feature in the river. Islands like this can form over time from sediment and changes in the river's flow.
Where is Arbuckle Island Located?
You can find Arbuckle Island in Sebastian County, Arkansas. This county is in the western part of the state. The island sits right in the middle of the Arkansas River as it flows through this area.
Who Was Matthew Arbuckle Jr.?
The island gets its name from Matthew Arbuckle Jr.. He was an important figure in American history. Arbuckle was a career soldier, meaning he spent his entire working life in the military. He was known for his long service and his role in different events.
A Soldier's Life
Matthew Arbuckle Jr. was born in 1778 and passed away in 1851. He joined the United States Army in 1799. Over his many years of service, he rose through the ranks. He served in various conflicts, including the War of 1812. He also played a role in managing relations with Native American tribes. His military career spanned over 50 years, which is a very long time!
Arbuckle's Connection to the Island
Matthew Arbuckle Jr. owned the land where the island is located. Because of his ownership and his importance in the region, the island was named in his honor. This is a common way places get their names, recognizing important people who lived or worked there.
The Arkansas River: A Mighty Waterway
Arbuckle Island is part of the Arkansas River. This is a major river in the central United States. It flows for about 1,460 miles (2,350 kilometers). The Arkansas River starts in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. It then flows through Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Finally, it joins the Mississippi River.
Why Rivers are Important
Rivers like the Arkansas River are very important for many reasons.
- They provide water for drinking and farming.
- They are home to many types of fish and other wildlife.
- Historically, rivers were used for transportation. People traveled by boat to move goods and explore new areas.
- Today, rivers are still used for shipping goods. They also provide places for recreation, like fishing and boating.
