The 2018 spring edition of Faulkner Facts and Fiddlings, the Faulkner County Historical Society’s journal, is now available. This special commemorative issue highlights the recent restoration of the Springfield-Des Arc Bridge at its new home on Beaverfork Lake.

Previous Faulkner Facts and Fiddling articles by Guy Murphy and Fred Petrucelli about the bridge’s restoration in 1992 are reprinted. They recount the bridge’s history as well as past attempts to preserve this oldest bridge in Arkansas.

Also included are also reprints of articles that appeared in the Log Cabin Democrat and the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette during the bridge restoration. Carol Rolf’s article, “History Society Seeks to Preserve 1870s Structure,” first appeared in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette River Valley Edition August 16, 2015.

When the newly-restored Springfield Bridge was dedicated in September 2017, a special guest, Hattie Lee Hankins, 99, attended the ceremony. She has lived by the bridge her entire life and recently recounted her memories for a special article, “Life by the Springfield-Des Arc Bridge,” included in this publication. There are also anecdotes from others who have fond memories of the old bridge.

Pictures of the dedication ceremony, a list of contributors who sponsored the safety railings, and recent honors that have been bestowed on the city of Conway, Faulkner County, Workin’ Bridges and the Faulkner County Historical Society for the historic restoration of this bridge are included. There is also information about the Ultimate Restorations documentary about the bridge that is scheduled to air in the fall.

The issue is available for $4 at the Faulkner County Museum and the Faulkner County Library. Members of the historical society will receive a copy as part of their membership benefits.
The Faulkner County Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that seeks to bring together those people interested in history, especially the history of Faulkner County. It regularly sponsors programs and publishes articles that focus on the rich history of the county.

Information about how to join the society can be found in the journal, at the Faulkner County Historical Society website, www.faulknerhistory.org, or the society’s Facebook page. See the website for more articles about Faulkner County history as well as upcoming history society activities.

Cindy Burnett Beckman is local freelance history writer. Her “A Look Back” column of Faulkner County history appears every Tuesday in the Log Cabin and appears monthly in Winc. Magazine.