Lafayette County, County in southwestern Arkansas, United States
Lafayette County is an administrative division in southwestern Arkansas covering rolling hills and forest land, with the Red River forming its western boundary. Three lakes - Erling, June, and Spirit - sit within the county and offer water-based recreation opportunities.
The county was established in October 1827 from Hempstead County after the Quapaw Nation ceded their lands to the United States through a treaty signed in 1818. This formation was part of the broader western expansion and reorganization of territorial boundaries.
The county takes its name from Marquis de Lafayette, a French military officer who played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War. This naming reflects the historical connections that early settlers maintained with European supporters of American independence.
Visitors can access multiple lakes for fishing and water activities, with Lake Erling serving as a centrally located option. The warmer months offer the most favorable conditions for outdoor pursuits in the region.
The county courthouse sits adjacent to a cemetery, an uncommon arrangement among Arkansas courthouses. Tombstones on the courthouse square date back to 1860, marking a distinctive connection between the seat of justice and the local burial grounds.
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