Bellaire, Arkansas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bellaire, Arkansas
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Country | ![]() |
State | ![]() |
County | Chicot |
Elevation | 41 m (135 ft) |
Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
GNIS feature ID | 61706 |
Bellaire is a small place in Chicot County, Arkansas, United States. It is known as an unincorporated community. This means it does not have its own local government like a city or town. Instead, it is managed by the county. Bellaire is located right on U.S. Route 65, an important highway.
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a group of homes or buildings that are not part of an official city or town. They do not have their own mayor or city council. The local county government provides services like police and fire protection. People living in these areas still have a strong sense of community.
How are Unincorporated Areas Governed?
Since unincorporated communities do not have their own city government, the county takes care of them. For Bellaire, this means Chicot County handles many things. This includes roads, public safety, and sometimes even schools. Residents pay county taxes, not city taxes.
Discovering Chicot County
Bellaire is located in Chicot County, which is in the southeastern part of Arkansas. Chicot County is known for its rich history and natural beauty. It is bordered by the Mississippi River. This river has played a big role in the county's development.
Geography of Chicot County
Chicot County has a flat landscape. It is part of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain. This area is very fertile, which means it is good for farming. The county is home to Lake Chicot, which is the largest natural lake in Arkansas. It is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
History of Chicot County
Chicot County was created in 1823. It is one of Arkansas's oldest counties. The name "Chicot" comes from the French word for "stumpy." This likely refers to the many cypress trees in the area. The county's economy has historically relied on agriculture, especially cotton.
U.S. Route 65: Bellaire's Lifeline
U.S. Route 65 is a major highway that runs through Bellaire. This road connects many towns and cities. It stretches from Louisiana all the way to Minnesota. For Bellaire, Route 65 is a vital link. It helps people travel to nearby towns for work or supplies.
The Importance of Highways
Highways like U.S. Route 65 are very important for communities. They allow goods to be transported easily. They also help people commute to jobs or visit family. For smaller places like Bellaire, a main highway can be their connection to the wider world.
Life in Bellaire
Life in Bellaire is typical of a small, rural community. Residents often know their neighbors well. The pace of life is generally slower than in big cities. The community is surrounded by natural landscapes. This offers opportunities for outdoor activities.
Community Spirit
Even without a city government, unincorporated communities often have a strong community spirit. People might gather for local events or help each other out. This sense of togetherness is a key part of living in places like Bellaire.