Jenkins' Ferry Battleground State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jenkins' FerryBattleground State Park |
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Battle of Jenkins' Ferry Memorial
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| Location | Grant County, Arkansas |
| Nearest city | Leola, Arkansas |
| Area | 40.15 acres (16.25 ha) |
| Elevation | 190 feet (58 m) |
| Established | 1961 |
| Original use | Field, forest, battlefield |
| Governing body | Division of State Parks, Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism |
| Website | Jenkins' Ferry Battleground State Park |
| Official name: Jenkins' Ferry Battleground | |
| Designated | January 21, 1970 |
| Reference no. | 70000120 |
| Part of | Camden Expedition Sites National Historic Landmark |
| Reference no. | 94001182 |
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Jenkins' Ferry Battleground State Park is a special place in Grant County, Arkansas. It's where an important battle happened during the American Civil War. This battle, called the Battle of Jenkins' Ferry, took place on April 30, 1864.
The park is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This means it's a historic site worth protecting. It's also part of the Camden Expedition Sites National Historic Landmark. This is a group of places that are very important to American history.
What is Jenkins' Ferry Battleground State Park?
Jenkins' Ferry Battleground State Park is managed by the Division of State Parks in Arkansas. It helps us remember the Civil War battle that happened there. The park has special signs that tell the story of the battle.
It's also a great place for outdoor fun! You can enjoy the Saline River here. People like to swim and boat on the river. The park also has places for picnics and a pavilion.
The park is about 12 miles (19 km) southwest of Sheridan. It's also 9 miles (14 km) northeast of Leola. You can find it on the west side of Arkansas Highway 46.
A Look Back: The Battle of Jenkins' Ferry
The Battle of Jenkins' Ferry was a key event in the Civil War. It was part of a larger plan called the Red River Campaign. This campaign involved Union (Northern) and Confederate (Southern) armies.
The battle happened as Union forces were trying to retreat. They were moving back towards Little Rock. Confederate soldiers attacked them near the Saline River. The fighting was very tough and muddy.
The Union army managed to cross the river. They then destroyed their bridge to stop the Confederates. This battle was one of the last major fights in Arkansas during the war.
What Can You Do at the Park?
Jenkins' Ferry Battleground State Park offers a mix of history and nature. You can walk around and read the historic markers. These signs explain what happened during the battle.
The park is located in a bend of the Saline River. The river usually flows from northwest to southeast. But at the park, it curves southwest.
There are picnic tables where you can eat. You'll also find fire pits for cooking or warmth. A basic comfort station (restroom) is available too. The park even includes a part of the old road. This road once connected Little Rock and Camden. You can also see the eastern end of the original Jenkins' Ferry crossing.
