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Marion, AR

Frequently asked questions

Marion, AR

Marion is a city in and the county seat of Crittenden County, Arkansas, United States. The city is part of the Memphis metropolitan area. It is the second largest city in Crittenden County, behind West Memphis.

Although Marion was incorporated in 1896, the community predates that significantly. The site of Marion was part of Louisiana (New Spain) from 1764 to 1803 when it became Louisiana (New France). Some of the oldest land titles in the area are from Spanish land grants from a time before the Louisiana Purchase. After the Louisiana Purchase, the area was part of the Arkansas Territory. During the 1830s the Trail of Tears, the forced removal of Native Americans from Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi, passed through the area. Its location is close to where the Sultana Steamboat exploded and sunk. A memorial is placed on the city hall square to remember those who were lost in the accident.

During the American Civil War, the steamboat Sultana was destroyed in an explosion on April 27, 1865, as it was transporting released Union POWs near Mound City, just east of Marion. It is estimated that 1,500 soldiers and crew were killed, the largest loss of life in a maritime accident in US history. This tragedy is commemorated by a historic marker placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Marion places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, with several healthcare facilities serving the community. The Crittenden Regional Hospital is a vital healthcare institution, that provides comprehensive medical services to Marion and the surrounding areas. The city is committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle, and residents can access parks and recreational areas for outdoor activities. The Marion Wellness and Fitness Center is a hub for fitness enthusiasts, offering exercise classes and wellness programs to enhance the overall health of the community.

The top sites in Marion, AR are the Orpheum Theatre, National Civil Rights Museum, and  Sultana Disaster Museum.

Population: 13,752 (2020). ZIP Code: 72364. Area code: 870. Elevation: 223 ft (68 m). Area: 20.12 sq mi (52.11 km2).

FAQs

What is the history of Marion, AR?

Marion’s history can be traced back to its settlement by Native American tribes, including the Quapaw. Spanish exploration of the region occurred in the 1500s and Spanish land grants in the area that is now Marion were later granted to Francis Gragen and Justo Mecham. Fort Esperanza, established in 1797, was commanded by Augustine Grandee. The French government for a short time controlled the area, until the Louisiana Purchase added the land to the United States. Grandee remained in the area and settled near Marion Lake (then known as Alligator Lake or Cypress Lake), which flowed into the Mississippi River.

How did Marion, AR get its name?

The new county was named in honor of General Francis Marion, a Revolutionary War general, referred to by the British as the “Old Swamp Fox.” His strategic brilliance and leadership qualities played a crucial role in the American victory during the war. The decision to name the county after him serves as a tribute to his contributions to the nation's history and the spirit of resilience he embodied.

What county is Marion, AR in?

Marion is a city in and the county seat of Crittenden County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 12,345 at the 2010 census, a 38.7% increase since 2000. The city is part of the Memphis metropolitan area. It is the second largest city in Crittenden County, behind West Memphis.

Sources

Wikipedia

Encyclopedia of Arkansas

City of Marion

Crittenden Regional Hospital

Marion AR

Marion Wellness and Fitness Center

Orpheum Theatre

National Civil Rights Museum

Sultana Disaster Museum

Crittenden County AR

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