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Malvern, AR

Frequently asked questions

Malvern, AR

Malvern is a city in and the county seat of Hot Spring County, Arkansas, United States. Founded as a railroad stop at the eastern edge of the Ouachita Mountains, the community's history and economy have been tied to available agricultural and mineral resources. The production of bricks from locally available clay has earned the city the nickname, "The Brick Capital of the World".

Named after Malvern Hill, Virginia, Malvern was founded in 1870 by the Cairo and Fulton Railroad as a city site 21 miles (34 km) southeast of Hot Springs. On October 15, 1878, Malvern officially became the county seat of Hot Spring County. The original inhabitants of the county were Native Americans, trappers, hunters, and farmers.

The Hot Springs Railroad, often referred to as the Diamond Jo line, was established as a narrow-gauge railroad by Chicago businessman Joseph Reynolds in 1874. Reynolds began building the Hot Springs Railroad, which extends northwest from Malvern Junction, a station on the Cairo & Fulton, to Hot Springs, after he had endured unsatisfactory stagecoach rides to the latter city. Because Malvern was the closest railroad station to Hot Springs, it became an important junction point for passengers transferring from rail to stagecoach to complete their journey to the spas in Hot Springs. This was the only railroad in Hot Springs for 15 years. The opening of the Little Rock & Hot Springs Western Railroad in April 1900 provided more direct access to Hot Springs from Little Rock and the north, and both the Choctaw, Oklahoma & Gulf and the Iron Mountain took advantage of this route, effectively cutting the volume of interchange traffic into Malvern. By 1902 passenger train shuttle service through Malvern had essentially ended.

Malvern is home to diverse industries that contribute to the city's economic stability. The major sectors include manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. These industries play a crucial role in providing employment opportunities and shaping the economic landscape of the community.

Malvern prioritizes the well-being of its residents through robust health and wellness services provided by Baptist Health Medical Center. This center offers comprehensive healthcare services, ensuring access to quality medical care for the community. Additionally, Malvern encourages a healthy lifestyle with initiatives like community fitness programs and access to recreational facilities such as parks and walking trails, contributing to the overall wellness of its residents.

The top sites in Malvern, AR are Chez Fur Fiber Farm, Hot Spring County Museum, and Lake Catherine State Park.

Population: 10,867 (2020). ZIP Code: 72104. Area codes: 501. Elevation: 207 ft (63 m). Incorporated: July 22, 1876. Area: 9.92 sq mi (25.69 km2).

FAQs

What is Malvern, AR is known for?

A diversity of agricultural and mineral resources in the region provided the foundation for Malvern's long-term economic development, with brick production eventually playing a truly significant role. As a result of that critical industry, the city has come to be known as the “Brick Capital of the World.” The legacy of this industry continues to shape Malvern's identity and economic landscape today, highlighting its rich history and industrial heritage.

What are the demographics of Malvern, AR?

In 2021, Malvern, AR had a population of 10.6k people with a median age of 38.4 and a median household income of $34,880. Between 2020 and 2021 the population of Malvern, AR declined from 10,886 to 10,626, a −2.39% decrease and its median household income declined from $35,833 to $34,880, a −2.66% decrease. The 5 largest ethnic groups in Malvern, AR are White (Non-Hispanic) (61.1%), Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) (29.9%), Two+ (Non-Hispanic) (3.17%), Other (Hispanic) (2.48%), and White (Hispanic) (1.78%).
 

What is the crime rate in Malvern AR?

With a crime rate of 44 per one thousand residents, Malvern has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 23. Efforts to address these issues and enhance community safety are crucial for fostering a positive environment for residents and visitors alike.

Sources

Wikipedia - Malvern, Arkansas

Baptist Health Medical Center

Baptist Health Family Clinic

Hot Spring County Medical Center (HCMC)

Hot Spring County Museum

Lake Catherine State Park

Chez Fur Fiber Farm

City of Malvern, Arkansas

Encyclopedia of Arkansas

Data USA

Neighborhood Scout

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