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Van Buren, AR

Frequently asked questions

Van Buren, Ar

Van Buren is the second-largest city in the Fort Smith, Arkansas–Oklahoma Metropolitan Statistical Area and the county seat of Crawford County, Arkansas, United States. The city is located directly northeast of Fort Smith at the Interstate 40 – Interstate 540 junction.

The area was settled by David Boyd and Thomas Martin in 1818. After Arkansas became a territory in 1819, Daniel and Thomas Phillips constructed a lumber yard in the community to serve as a fuel depot for traffic along the Arkansas River. In 1831, a post office was constructed for the community, at the time known as Phillips Landing. This post office was named after newly appointed Secretary of State and future President Martin Van Buren.

John Drennen, along with his partner David Thompson, purchased the area for US$11,000. They moved their business of supplying firewood for steamboats to this new location on higher ground. The courthouse was constructed on a lot of land donated by Drennen on the condition that Van Buren become the county seat. The Drennen Reserve is one of the town's existing historical sites from the 1830s.

Health and wellness are integral aspects of life in Van Buren. The city is served by several healthcare facilities, including Summit Medical Center, providing comprehensive medical services to residents. Van Buren is surrounded by natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. Parks like Field of Dreams and Bluff Hole Park provide recreational spaces for residents to engage in fitness and leisure activities. The city's commitment to wellness is further evident in its promotion of a healthy lifestyle and access to healthcare services.

The top sites in Van Buren, AR are King Opera House, Great Escape Mystery Rooms, and The Box Arcade.

Population: 23,218 (2020). ZIP Code: 72956. Area code: 479. Elevation: 650 ft (200 m). Incorporated: January 4, 1845. Area: 16.10 sq mi (41.70 km2).

FAQs

What is Van Buren, AR famous for?

Main Street's crown jewel is the circa 1890 King Opera House, which hosts local events and community theater performances. Van Buren's most recent preservation effort is the Drennen/Scott home, built in 1836 by one of the town's founding fathers. A testament to Van Buren's commitment to historic preservation, the Drennen/Scott home stands as a cherished landmark. Constructed in 1836 by one of the town's founding fathers, this stately residence represents a significant piece of Van Buren's history and architectural heritage. Both the King Opera House and the Drennen/Scott home exemplify Van Buren's dedication to honoring its past and celebrating its cultural legacy. 

What is the crime rate in Van Buren, AR?

With a crime rate of 36 per one thousand residents, Van Buren 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 28. Efforts to combat crime in Van Buren may include increasing police presence, enhancing community policing initiatives, and implementing targeted interventions to address socioeconomic factors that contribute to criminal behavior. By working together to address the underlying factors driving crime and implementing proactive measures to enhance public safety, Van Buren can strive to create a safer and more secure environment for all residents. 

What is the poverty rate in Van Buren, AR?

In 2022, the median household income of Van Buren households was $56,493. Van Buren households made slightly more than Lake City households ($56,414) and Morrison Bluff households ($56,250). However, 12.1% of Van Buren families live in poverty. The presence of poverty in Van Buren underscores the importance of addressing socioeconomic disparities and implementing strategies to support families in need. This may include initiatives focused on education, workforce development, affordable housing, and access to social services to help uplift disadvantaged communities and promote economic mobility. 

Sources

Wikipedia - Van Buren, Arkansas

Summit Medical Center

ACHP

Arkansas Demographics

Neighborhood Scout

Field of Dreams

Bluff Hole Park

Great Escape Mystery Rooms

The Box Arcade

King Opera House

Van Buren City

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